Talley receives Autism Advocate of the Year Award

Rep. John Talley, RStillwater, received the Advocate of the Year Award from the Autism Foundation of Oklahoma in a ceremony during the 7th Annual Autism Advocacy Day at the State Capitol on Thursday, April 13.

Talley received the award for his work on

House Bill 1028, which would prohibit corporal punishment in schools on children with significant cognitive disabilities. It is currently available to be heard on the Senate floor.

“I was honored to receive the Advocate of the Year Award from the Autism Foundation of

Oklahoma,” said Talley, whose wife Caryl worked in special education for decades. “Each person with autism deserves the opportunity to achieve the best possible quality of life, which is something I have fought for and will continue to fight for in my time in the Legislature. I’m truly honored to receive this award, and I want to thank the group of advocates who have helped me develop this legislation. There is still more work to be done, but I am proud of what we have accomplished together so far.”

The Autism Foundation of Oklahoma aims to improve the quality of life for Oklahomans with autism. The nonprofit organized the 7th Annual Autism Advocacy Day at the Capitol to raise awareness and show support for Oklahomans affected by autism.

Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disability causing differences with social interaction and restrictive or repetitive patterns of behavior. There is a wide range of ability among people with autism. Some people with autism need significant levels of support to ensure their health and well-being while others do not. There is no known cause of autism.