General Assembly Raised Bill No. 7108 seeks to improve services and support for individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities in Connecticut by introducing new definitions and assessment criteria that prioritize culturally appropriate evaluations. The bill mandates the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management to collaborate with state agencies to implement recommendations from a report on statutory definitions and regulations concerning intellectual disabilities. Key provisions include the potential removal of intelligence quotient scores from eligibility criteria for state services, a broader definition of developmental disabilities, and a review of current eligibility tools used by the Departments of Developmental Services and Social Services. A report on these findings is required by January 1, 2026.

Furthermore, the bill establishes new staff positions to coordinate autism services and creates an interagency coalition aimed at improving service delivery for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This coalition will meet quarterly and report on its progress by July 1, 2025. The legislation also enhances transparency and accountability by requiring the Commissioner of Developmental Services to file quarterly reports on the expenditure of appropriated funds and to provide annual updates on abuse and neglect complaints. New sections are added to existing law, effective July 1, 2025, while outdated language is deleted to streamline the reporting process and enhance oversight of human services and public health matters.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 4-67bb