The Arkansas Autism Legislative Task Force met this week to review significant updates and developments related to autism services and support in the state.
The task force includes members of the Arkansas General Assembly, autism experts, and representatives from state agencies and organizations. It is co‑chaired by Senator Justin Boyd of Fort Smith and Representative Denise Jones Ennett of Little Rock.
The group is charged with examining how Arkansas responds to autism spectrum disorders, identifying best practices and efficient methods of treatment, and recommending strategies for securing additional federal funding for autism services and special education. The task force also advises the General Assembly on potential statutory changes aimed at improving treatment and education for individuals with autism spectrum disorders. The panel meets quarterly at the State Capitol complex.
This week’s meeting featured a presentation from the University of Arkansas’s Programs Supporting Students with Autism and Other Disabilities.
UA has two distinct programs:
EMPOWER (Educate, Motivate, Prepare, Opportunity, Workplace readiness, Employment, Responsibility). EMPOWER is a four-year, non-degree, inclusive postsecondary education program (IPSE) for young adults with intellectual disabilities requiring limited supports. It is approved by the U.S. Department of Education as a Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary (“CTP”). The program’s three core goals are to provide a college experience, enhance independent living skills, and improve work readiness skills.
UA also offers the Autism Support Program, which offers comprehensive support for degree-seeking undergraduate students with autism. The program’s academic coaches provide support in academics, executive functioning skills, transitioning to independent adult roles, and social skills.
Members also heard from the University of Arkansas–Pulaski Technical College’s 3D Program. The 3D Program provides post‑secondary education and workforce preparation for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, offering certificate-based training in culinary arts, hospitality, and baking while supporting the development of life and technical skills. This academic year alone, students have achieved becoming ServSafe Handler certified, becoming Certified Fundamentals Cooks, becoming Certified Fundamentals Pastry Cooks, preparing dishes for special family events, and being employed full-time at restaurants across the greater Little Rock area.
In addition, the task force received an update on the Supporting Lifelong Success (SLS) Community. SLS serves Northwest Arkansas as a growing Medicaid waiver provider offering home- and community‑based services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The organization is pursuing a holistic approach to supporting neurodivergent adults throughout their lives.
According to SLS, its long‑term vision is to create an inclusive community that integrates housing, employment opportunities, clinical services, and recreational options within a 230‑acre development in south Fayetteville known as Cato Springs. The project aims to build a connected neighborhood that enhances quality of life for both the region and the neurodivergent community.
SLS leaders describe their mission as establishing “a community that surrounds neurodivergent adults with opportunities to thrive through independence and choice and fuels each individual’s ability to contribute their skills, explore their dreams, have relationships, and find purpose in everyday living.”
