The Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities convened on June 10, 2025, to discuss several key legislative proposals, including an autism reform bill and issues related to the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and the Department of Children and Families (DCF).

During the meeting, Michelle Kerwall, a mother of a nine-year-old son with autism and an intellectual disability, provided testimony highlighting the challenges faced by families navigating multiple state services. She emphasized the need for better coordination among agencies to ensure that autism services are effectively integrated within educational settings. Kerwall proposed amendments to the autism reform bill aimed at strengthening connections between the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and other supporting agencies.

Kerwall also addressed concerns regarding the reporting process for incidents involving children with autism. She shared her experience of having to report a troubling situation to DCF, noting that the system often fails to recognize the unique needs of autistic children, particularly those who are non-verbal. She stressed the importance of understanding these children's behaviors and ensuring that they receive appropriate support to prevent abuse and neglect.

The committee did not receive additional public testimony on the discussed bills, indicating a need for broader engagement from stakeholders in future discussions. The meeting concluded without further questions for Kerwall, but her insights underscored the critical need for legislative action to improve services for children with disabilities in Massachusetts.

As the committee continues its work, the implications of these discussions could lead to significant reforms in how autism services are delivered and coordinated across state agencies, ultimately aiming to enhance the quality of life for affected families.