A group of Oregon legislators are coming to Coos Bay next week to talk about autism and ways to improve the lives of those with the disorder.

The visit is one of several stops around the state as part of the Oregon Autism Project. It is designed to give group legislators a chance to talk with people with autism, their families, and the professionals and advocates working with them.

The work group will hold its meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 10, at the Coos Bay Public Library, 525 Anderson Ave.

The idea was conceived last May when state Reps. Peter Buckley, D-Ashland, and Mitch Greenlick, D-Portland, asked Rep. Chris Edwards, D-Eugene, to look into ways the state can help children and adults with autism.  

“Autism rates in this state exist at an epidemic proportion,” Edwards said in a press release. “It’s time individuals, families, service professionals, advocates, and policymakers come together and get to work in a coordinated manner on behalf of those with autism.”

Joining Edwards are representatives from the Oregon Department of Education, the Department of Human Services, the Oregon Developmental Disabilities Council and the Oregon Autism Alliance. State Reps. Buckley; Sara Gelser, D-Corvallis; Linda Flores, R-Clackamas; Ron Maurer, R-Grants Pass; and state Sen. Alan Bates, D-Medford also are involved.

Over the course of the past two months the group compared Oregon’s current services with other states. The group has compiled a draft report with preliminary findings and recommendations for the 2009 Legislature.

“Compiling the preliminary report was only the first step,” said Buckley. “Now it’s crucial that we receive input from the individuals most directly affected.”

To view a copy of the preliminary findings, those interested can visit the Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities Web site at http://ww.ocdd.org. Written comments can be sent to rep.chrisedwards@state.or.us.