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Schumer: Provide tracking devices for autistic kids

WASHINGTON — The federal government should provide tracking devices for autistic kids so another child doesn’t go missing, Sen. Charles Schumer said Monday.

“The sights and sounds of NYC and other busy places can be overstimulating and distracting for children and teens with autism, often leading to wandering as a way to escape,” he said.

Schumer (D-NY) called on the Justice Department to fund a program for the tracking devices, which can be worn as wristwatches, anklets or clipped onto belt loops or shoelaces.

A similar program already exists for people with Alzheimer’s.

The proposal follows the Oct. 4 disappearance of Avonte Oquendo, a 14-year-old diagnosed with autism who vanished from his Long Island City school.

Avonte is still missing, and an $85,000 reward is being offered for his information leading to his return.