Rockville, MD, July 31, 2024 – The Autism Society of America applauds lead sponsors, Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-MN) and Susan Collins (R-ME), Chairman Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Ranking Member Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and the rest of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee for its bipartisan passage of the Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education, and Support (CARES) Act of 2024 (S. 4762), on July 31 with an overwhelming vote of 20-1.
“This decisive action represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to improve the lives of individuals with Autism and their families,” stated Christopher S. Banks, President and CEO. “The Autism CARES Act has been instrumental since 2006 in advancing Autism research, enhancing early intervention services, and training health professionals. The continued support and investment affirmed by this bipartisan vote will ensure sustained progress in these critical areas.”
S. 4762 incorporates several of the Autism Society’s recommendations, which build on the success of the law, including:
- increased capacity of the LEND workforce training programs
- examining how to expand the network of developmental pediatricians
- providing a research focus on those with complex medical and behavioral support needs
- increasing access to support those with communication needs, among other improvements.
We are deeply grateful to the Senate HELP Committee members for their commitment to addressing the needs of the Autism community. During the Senate Committee markup, both Senators Luján and Collins passionately shared personal stories about individuals with Autism and families close to them.
The Committee’s dedication to passing S. 4762 underscores the importance of coordinated efforts in research, education, and support services that are essential for improving the quality of life for Autistic individuals.
We look forward to the full Senate’s consideration and ultimate passage of this vital legislation, and we remain steadfast in our advocacy for policies that support the Autism community.
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Autism Society of America
The Autism Society’s mission is to create 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+ local affiliates serve over half a million members of the Autism community each year. It envisions a world where everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need, when they need it – including education, advocacy efforts, and supports and services throughout the lifespan. For more information visit the Autism Society at AutismSociety.org, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
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