The word eloping took on a whole new meaning when my three year old son began his new behavior of running away from me. Due to the fact that I was already a “helicopter mom” even before my son’s autism diagnosis, my son did not have many opportunities to slyly wander away from me while we were out in public. I faced the problem of having my son bolt from me with no (obvious) warning.
For many parents, elopement or wandering is a frightening problem that can occur with their children who are on the autism spectrum. Parents may soon have resources and assistance to address elopement. U. S. Senior Senator Chuck Shumer sponsored the new safety bill called Kevin and Avonte’s Law. The U.S. Senate passed safety legislation on July 14, 2016. Currently in the U.S. House of Representatives, H. R. 4919 is assigned to a committee.
According to Autism Speaks, Kevin and Avonte’s Law would allow Justice Department grants to be used by law enforcement agencies and nonprofits for educational and other programs. The grants would facilitate training and emergency protocols for school personnel, supply first responders with additional information and resources, and make locating technology programs available for individuals who may wander from safety. See Autism Speaks website for more information.