A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS TO PURCHASE AND DEVELOP LAND AND TO CONSTRUCT A RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY FOR ADULTS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER.
Whereas, there are an estimated 30,000 persons in North Carolina affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder who have a normal life expectancy and will require care well beyond the lives of their aging parents; and
Whereas, the greatest need in North Carolina for individuals with autism who suffer from severe behavioral, social, and communications deficits is a place to live out their lives with dignity and be cared for with love and respect; Now, therefore,
The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:
SECTION 1.(a)  There is appropriated from the General Fund to The Autism Community Initiative, Inc. (ACI), a nonprofit organization, the sum of three million five hundred thousand dollars ($3,500,000) for the 2007‑2008 fiscal year.  These funds shall be used for the purchase of 45 to 50 acres of land within the greater Research Triangle area and for infrastructure development of the purchased land on which to build an open residential community to serve 46 to 50 adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder.  The ACI will employ the behavioral and developmental teaching approaches embodied in the Division TEACCH (Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication-handicapped Children) model. The ACI Program will include a day program, training to work, and opportunities for on-site and off‑site employment.
SECTION 1.(b)  Funds appropriated in this act that are unexpended and unencumbered on June 30, 2008, shall not revert to the General Fund but shall remain with The Autism Community Initiative, Inc., to be used for the purposes for which the funds were appropriated.
SECTION 2.  This act becomes effective July 1, 2007.