State & federal programs overview
The state of Texas provides or administers a number of programs which serve the needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families. Many of these programs are supported by funds received from the federal government. Services in Texas for people with ASD and other disabilities are provided primarily through the following agencies:
Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services
- Community services and supports programs, including Medicaid waiver programs
- Intermediate care facilities, including state supported living centers, that serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
- Local MR authorities
Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services
- Early childhood intervention services for children from birth to age 3
- Autism Program (applied behavior analysis therapy) for children ages 3 through 8
- Vocational services for adults seeking employment, including transition services for students exiting high school
- Independent living services
Texas Education Agency
- Special education services, preschool through grade 12, provided through local independent school districts which coordinate with Education Service Centers
Health and Human Services System
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission, the Texas Department of State Health Services, and the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services administer health care and financial assistance programs to support low-income families and individuals who qualify for benefits. Many people with ASD and their families may qualify for these programs. Among others, these programs include:
- Children's Health Insurance Program;
- Medicaid (including STAR+PLUS and the Medicaid Buy-In Programs);
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program food benefits;
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families; and
- Disability Determination Services.
For more information on these agencies and the state and federal programs they administer, click on the menu of services to your left.
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Updated: August 2, 2011
