Autism Spectrum Disorders Advisory Board

The Autism Spectrum Disorders Advisory Board was established in 2016 under Mental Hygiene Law, Article 13, Section 13.42. The board provides guidance and information to New York policymakers, individuals with an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis (ASD), and families seeking reliable information regarding available services and supports. 

The board has the following tasks and duties: 

• Study and review the effectiveness of supports and services currently being provided to people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders;
• Identify legislative and regulatory activity which may be required to improve existing service systems that support people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders;
• Identify methods of improving interagency coordination of services and maximize the impact and effectiveness of services and agency functions;
• Identify strategies and methods of improving outreach and coordination of services associated with autism spectrum disorders for minority group members including, but not limited to, African American, Latino and Asian children; and
• Such other matters as may be deemed appropriate by the members of the board. 

The Autism Spectrum Disorders Advisory Board meets quarterly. 

view Upcoming Public Meetings on our event page

view Meeting Recordings and Agendas

The Board consists of 24 members; 15 appointed positions, one Chair, and 8 representatives from state agencies (ex officio).

Interested in joining the Board? Fill out the Interest Form. Completing the Interest Form does not guarantee appointment.

Appointed Members

Ex-Officio Members

The Autism Spectrum Disorders Advisory Board has a Self-Advocacy Subcommittee made up of people who are on the autism spectrum. The subcommittee reviews Board recommendations and offers feedback based on their lived experience.

Interested in joining the Self-Advocacy Subcommittee? Fill out the Interest Form. Completing the Interest Form does not guarantee participation in the subcommittee.

Once the Board receives submissions, it will reach out to committee candidates to have a virtual interview. 

Subcommittee Members

• Kate Coffman
• Stephen Katz
• Kristin Thatcher
• Mike Tripodi

In 2022 and 2023, the board hosted a Neurodiversity flag contest where New Yorkers could choose a new flag that they believed best represented Neurodiversity. The board received more than 40 flag design submissions, which were then posted online for the public to decide. There were more than 1,000 people who participated. The chosen flag design was created by Joshua Mirsky, of Jericho, which is the Neurodiversity Strength Flag.