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Joey Pants!
By Richard | April 13, 2007
‘Sopranos’ star to promote autism legislation
By Robert B. Swift | The Daily Item
HARRISBURG — “The Sopranos” actor Joe Pantoliano will lend his star power next week to help House Speaker Dennis O’Brien unveil legislation providing autism services.
The occasion is a Capitol press conference scheduled Wednesday to promote Mr. O’Brien’s bill to require insurance companies in Pennsylvania to provide health coverage for autism-related care and services.
Mr. Pantoliano played mobster Ralph Cifaretto on the hit series that just started its seventh and final season on HBO. He has also appeared in over 70 films, including a co-starring role in “The Matrix.” Mr. Pantoliano is among a number of well-known actors advocating increased awareness and services for individuals with autism. Also at the event will be Robert and Suzanne Wright, who founded the national organization Autism Speaks.
Mr. O’Brien, R-Philadelphia, took office as speaker in January vowing to give higher profile for issues involving children with disabilities in the state budget. He has worked in recent years to earmark state funds for children with disabilities and create a state office of autism services.
April is Autism Awareness Month.
Topics: In The News |