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Autism CARES Act Reauthorization

The Autism CARES Act has been a vital source of federal funding for autism research and training for the past twenty years, significantly improving our understanding of autism and enhancing support for the 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults in the U.S. who are on the spectrum. However, key provisions of this important law are set to expire at the end of September. The Autism CARES Act of 2024 (S.4762/H.R.7213) seeks to not only renew but also strengthen these essential programs, aiming for about $2 billion in funding over the next five years. This support will focus on critical areas like healthcare access, training for developmental-behavioral pediatricians, and research on autism's impact as individuals age or face challenges with communication. The bill also includes a requirement for an annual budget plan to guide funding and strategy, ensuring that we continue to make progress for the autism community.

Bill: H.R. 1058, introduced in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives.

  • Purpose:

    • Reauthorize the Autism CARES Act, essential for autism research and support.

  • Funding:

    • Current law’s $260 million annual funding expires on Sept. 30.

    • Proposed increase: $368 million over current levels for the next five years.

  • Focus Areas:

    • Expanded emphasis on adults with autism.

    • Support for the 50,000 individuals aging out of assistance programs annually.

    • Amendments to focus on autism across the lifespan, not just for children.

  • Requirements:

    • HHS: Report on progress and health outcomes for autism and developmental disabilities.

    • HRSA: Develop grants for pediatricians in underserved areas.

    • NIH: Conduct research to improve outcomes for autism across all ages.

  • Impact:

    • Essential driver of autism research, data, and training for 20 years.

    • Supports 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults with autism in the U.S.

    • Bill authorizes about $2 billion in federal spending over five years.

    • Expands programs for healthcare access, developmental-behavioral pediatrician workforce, and communication needs.

  • Future Plans:

    • Requires a yearly budget plan outlining strategic direction and resource needs for autism research.

    • Enhancements include a new Autism Intervention Research Network for Communication Needs (AIR-C).

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