Protect privacy rights of Pennsylvanians with autism

I have a 31-year-old son with autism, and I strongly believe that protecting personal data and privacy rights for individuals on the autism spectrum is crucial. Governor Pritzker's recent executive order in Illinois, which bars state agencies from disclosing personal autism data to the federal government unless legally or medically necessary, sets a positive precedent. This measure safeguards the dignity and freedom of autistic individuals from potential discrimination or unwarranted surveillance. Autism is a neurological difference, not an epidemic or disease, as the order rightfully states. People with autism deserve to live without stigma or underestimation of their strengths and potential. The proposed federal autism database raises valid concerns about data privacy and the potential for misuse of personal information. I respectfully request that you consider taking similar action in Pennsylvania to protect the personal data and rights of our state's autistic population. An executive order akin to Illinois' would ensure that personal autism data is only disclosed when absolutely necessary and under strict privacy guidelines, preventing discriminatory profiling or surveillance. Safeguarding the privacy and civil liberties of our most vulnerable communities should be a top priority.