Luzerne Times

HARRISBURG – Companion legislation to a bill sponsored by Rep. Dane Watro (R-Luzerne/Schuylkill) that would allow delayed school enrollment in Pennsylvania for young children with autism was unanimously approved by the Senate Education Committee today. Senate Bill 1157, sponsored by Sen. Dave Argall (R-29), now goes to the full Senate for consideration. Watro and Rep. Mike Cabell (R-Luzerne) are the prime co-sponsors of the House version of the bill, also known as Roman’s Law.

The legislation, as explained by Watro, would allow parents or guardians of children diagnosed with autism or other developmental and intellectual disabilities to request a waiver from the Pennsylvania Department of Education to delay school enrollment for one year after reaching the compulsory school age of 6. The children would also be eligible to receive early intervention services from the state during this waiver period. Watro emphasized the importance of this bill by sharing his experience with the DeAngelo family, stating, “I met Roman DeAngelo and his parents, Paul and Krista, earlier this year and learned firsthand from them just how critical this legislation is for children like their son, who is autistic.”

Expressing gratitude for the efforts of Watro and Cabell, Senator Argall remarked, “Thank you to Reps. Watro and Cabell for championing this important legislation.” He highlighted the significant impact that an extra year of specialized support can have on developmentally delayed children.

Under the provisions of the bill, parents or guardians may choose to enroll their child in kindergarten or first grade for the following school year at the conclusion of the waiver period. The legislation aims to provide necessary supports for children with developmental delays to enhance their social and emotional skills, preparing them for future success upon entering the classroom.

The next step for Senate Bill 1157 is consideration by the full Senate. For those interested in watching Watro’s remarks to the committee, a broadcast-quality video can be accessed online.

For more information, individuals can visit Representative Dane Watro's official website or follow him on Facebook for updates.