Gov. Blunt signs $5 million appropriation for new Thompson Center facility
COLUMBIA — On Monday, June 30 Governor Matt Blunt signed an appropriations bill containing a major influx of state funding for a new facility for the Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Columbia. The bill, HB 2023, designates $5 million for planning, design, renovation, construction and/or purchase of a facility for the Thompson Center.
“Appropriation is not a word that normally generates much excitement for most people,” said Jim Poehling, executive director and chief administrative officer of the Thompson Center. “But today, Governor Blunt signed an appropriations bill that should excite all Missourians, and especially those families facing autism spectrum disorders.”
“Autism has a profound impact on Missouri families and this critical funding will help raise awareness about Autism and provide greater treatment options to better the lives of Missouri children,” Gov. Blunt said. “Parents can tell you how important a place such as the Thompson Center is and how important this funding can be in the fight against autism.”
“Today’s ceremony marks the next step in expanding the ability of the Thompson Center to share help for today and hope for tomorrow with even more Missouri families,” said Dr. Janet Farmer, director of academic programs at the center. “A new Thompson Center facility at the University of Missouri here in Columbia will afford us the space and resources needed to do the research, treatment and training that are necessary to discover new solutions to the mysteries of autism.”
