According to a recent national study, 27 percent of children with developmental disabilities wander from safe settings each year.

Such incidents often involve search and rescue efforts and result in injury or trauma.

Kevin and Avontes’ Law (H.R. 4919) was introduced by Reps. Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Maxine Waters (D-CA) to help prevent and reduce the harm from wandering by children with developmental disabilities, including autism.

This bipartisan bill would allow Justice Department grants to be used by state and local law enforcement agencies and nonprofits to develop training and emergency protocols, supply first responders with additional information and resources, and make local tracking technology programs available for children who may wander because of their disability.

 Status

Kevin and Avonte’s Law (S 2614) passed the Senate in July. Now the House version of the bill (H.R. 4919) must get through the House of Representatives in the next few weeks to become law.

Take action

Check to see if your representative is a cosponsor. If not, please call your representative today.

 What to say

•I am a member of The Arc.

•As a (parent/family member/service provider/other), I am aware of the risks of wandering.

•Please cosponsor H.R. 4919, Kevin and Avonte’s Law.

•This bill passed the Senate in July and needs to get through the Judiciary Committee and be passed by the House in the next few weeks to become law.

 Upcoming events

All You Can Eat Dad’s Belgian Waffle Breakfast: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 2 at the Austin Eagles Lookout Aerie 703, 107 11th St SE, Austin. Tickets are available at: The Arc Mower County Office, with members of The Arc Mower County Board of Directors and at the door on the day of the event. Advance tickets: $8 for adults or $5 for children (6-12). At the door tickets: $9 for adults or $6 for children (6-12). Children five and under are free. Take outs are available

Jamey Helgeson is the Program Director at The Arc Mower County and can be reached at jamey@thearcmc.org or by calling 507-433-8994, Extension 102. You can also visit our website (www.thearcmc.org) and follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/thearcmc).