S1217

TRENTON – A measure sponsored by Bergen County Senators Loretta Weinberg and Bob Gordon which requires the Department of Health and Senior Services to establish an autism awareness training course and curriculum for first responders like emergency medical technicians (EMTs), firefighters and police officers, has been signed into law by Governor Jon Corzine.

“In an emergency situation, every second counts, and the knowledge that a person suffers from autism can mean the difference between life and death,” said Senator Weinberg. “The signs of autism are not always easily recognizable, so knowledge of it and related disorders will help first responders know how best to deal with and treat those living with the disease.”

“Training courses like the ones called for in this legislation are absolutely necessary to help protect people with special needs, and the first responders who may come to their rescue in an emergency situation,” said Senator Gordon. “While I am confident that our law enforcement officers and first responders work hard to treat all people with respect, this is an issue of fairness. I would hate to hear of a person living with autism being physically harmed because of their inability to comprehend instructions they’ve been given.”

TRENTON – A measure sponsored by Senators Loretta Weinberg and Bob Gordon, which would require the Department of Health and Senior Services to establish an autism awareness training course and curriculum for first responders like emergency medical technicians (EMTs), firefighters and police officers, has received unanimous final legislative approval from the full Senate.

“In an emergency situation, the knowledge that a person suffers from autism or a related disorder can mean the difference between life and death,” said Senator Weinberg, D-Bergen. “Because characteristics of autism are not always immediately recognizable, we must make sure that those living with the disease are able to receive the medical care they need, as quickly as possible.”