Workgroup with focus on autism therapy for children to commence

Workgroup with focus on autism therapy for children to commence

PIERRE, S.D. – The Applied Behavior Analysis Provider Workgroup established during the 2015 South Dakota Legislative Session will have its first meeting July 21.

A bill signed into law March 30 by Gov. Dennis Daugaard established the workgroup to study the certification and licensure of applied behavior analysis therapy providers. The 16-member workgroup – comprising representatives of the Legislature, state government, therapy providers, families, insurers, and a licensing board – will meet three times before advising and making recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature by Dec. 1.

The first meeting will focus on workgroup tasks as well as informational presentations about applied behavior analysis, including an overview of a previously conducted study in South Dakota, and national certification.

“The overarching goal is to ensure appropriate licensing and certification of practitioners of applied behavior analysis in South Dakota,” said state Department of Human Services Secretary Gloria Pearson, chair of the workgroup.

All Applied Behavior Analysis Provider Workgroup meetings will take place in Pierre. Workgroup information will be posted to dhs.sd.gov as it becomes available.