Autism Society Applauds Passage of the Autism CARES Act of 2024 in the House of Representatives; Urges the Senate to Act Quickly 

Rockville, MD, September 18, 2024 — The Autism Society of America celebrates the passage of the Autism CARES Act of 2024 (H.R. 7213) in the House of Representatives today. Through relentless advocacy and collaboration among the disability community, the bill was passed under suspension of the rules on a roll-call vote of 402-13.  

We commend the bipartisan collaboration in both the House and Senate that led to the final bill passed today. This law continues to serve as the most comprehensive law supporting research, education, and services for individuals with Autism and their families. The next step is for the Senate to take up the bill. 

“While significant progress has been made in understanding and accepting Autism, much work remains to ensure that all Autistic individuals have access to services and supports tailored to their unique needs,” stated Christopher Banks, President and CEO. “The Autism CARES Act of 2024 addresses key areas such as research on Autism and aging, services for those with more complex needs, communication challenges, and the shortage of developmental pediatricians—all crucial steps toward improving the lives of Autistic individuals.” 

We extend our gratitude to the congressional leaders and staff who worked tirelessly to bring this legislation to fruition, especially Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Henry Cuellar (D-TX), the bipartisan Autism Caucus co-chairs, who led the development of the bill.  

Given the September 30 deadline to reauthorize this law, we urge the Senate to take up this bill swiftly. We look forward to the continued positive impact this law will have on the Autism community. 

For more information, please contact Kim Musheno, VP of Public Policy at the Autism Society of America (kmusheno@autismsociety.org). 

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About the Autism Society of America  

The Autism Society of America is dedicated to creating connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully.  As the nation’s oldest leading grassroots Autism organization, the Autism Society and its approximately 70 affiliates serve over half a million people each year. By championing initiatives that advance equitable opportunities in healthcare, education, employment, safety, and public policy, the organization executes a national reach, with meaningful local impact. Through education, advocacy, support and community programming, the Autism Society works towards a world in which everyone is connected to the support they need, when they need it.  

For more information, go to AutismSociety.org, Facebook, Instagram, X or LinkedIn.