$ 17.2 Million Increase For Autism, M.I.N.D. O.K.

[Guest guest]

Message from Rick Rollens/ Mind Institute

Governor Gray of California today announced that, despite a record $14

Billion budget shortfall, he has included in the upcoming 2002-2003 State

Budget the following:

Autism: $17.2 million General Fund increase to maintain services for

consumers diagnosed with autism. The number of autism diagnoses is increasing

steadily. The development of effective behavioral and educational programs

demonstrates that early intervention leads to measurable improvement in many

children with autism. With early, intensive, and comprehensive treatment,

many children diagnosed with autism can go on to lead more normal lives.

Also, Governor is not proposing any reductions in the current ongoing

budget of the M.I.N.D. Institute. The M.I.N.D. Institute is one of the

fortunate few programs not to be touched by the budget cut axe.

We are forever grateful to Governor for his consistent support of

autism in both good times and bad. He clearly has demonstrated time and again

that is truly is the " Autism Governor " of America, Our efforts on behalf of

our children continue to move funding for research, treatment, and care

forward..And most importantly are giving parents throughout the world hope

for their children's future.