The Autism Society of America finds the Administration’s claim—that “we will know what has caused the Autism epidemic and we’ll be able to eliminate those exposures”—to be harmful, misleading, and unrealistic. Autism is a complex developmental disability shaped by genetic, biological, and environmental factors. It is neither a chronic illness nor a contagion, that qualifies harmful language like “epidemic,” and to do so is both inaccurate and stigmatizing. Autistic individuals are human beings who deserve dignity, respect, and equitable civil rights. Leading disability organizations, the scientific community, and medical experts agree: more rigorous, science-based research is necessary, not speculation, oversimplified timelines, or diminished transparency. 

The Dangers of Misinformation and Debunked Theories
Claims that Autism is solely caused by environmental exposures, parenting styles, or vaccines not only lack scientific evidence but are incredibly irresponsible. “These misleading theories perpetuate harmful stigma, jeopardize public health, and distract from the critical needs of the Autism community including — access to quality care, early intervention, adult services, inclusive education, and long-term supports,” stated Christopher Banks, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America. 

The false claim that vaccines cause Autism has been thoroughly debunked through decades of rigorous, global scientific studies involving millions of individuals. Continuing to promote such discredited theories not only wastes valuable resources but also risks damaging public trust in life-saving immunizations, further endangering both the Autism community and society at large.  

Concerns About Lack of Transparency
Our country and its leadership must make public health policies that are rooted in evidence-based decision-making. “The Autism Society is deeply concerned about the lack of transparency surrounding this proposed research and looming September deadline —specifically regarding who is leading this research, what methodologies are being used, and whether it will meet established scientific standards,” continued Banks. If driven by individuals who continue to promote debunked and harmful theories—such as the false link between vaccines and Autism—these efforts risk undoing decades of progress and can cause real harm to the Autism community. 

The focus must be on ensuring that all research efforts are led by credentialed, evidence-based experts who understand the complexities of Autism and are committed to advancing scientifically valid findings. This includes safeguarding transparency and accountability throughout the process to ensure that research is conducted in a manner that is ethical, inclusive, and grounded in reality. Rigorous, peer-reviewed, meta-analyzed science takes time, funding, and a significant investment of capital – claiming that this can be achieved in five months is misleading and gives people a false sense of hope. 

The Need for Meaningful Inclusion and Expert-Led Research
Autistic individuals, caregivers, professionals, disability advocates, trusted Autism organizations and highly esteemed researchers must be meaningfully included in shaping the national research agenda. We urge the federal government to prioritize investments in peer-reviewed, evidence-based research that aligns with the lived experiences of Autistic individuals and addresses their urgent needs. 

Proposed HHS restructuring and the significant cuts to the CDC, ACL, and NIH diminish trust that credible, scientific researchers and medical experts will lead these efforts. Misinformation has real-world consequences. Public health decisions should prioritize protecting lives and listening to the real needs of the community. 

The Continuation of Harmful Rhetoric and Real-Life Consequences  

A dangerous and inaccurate narrative is being spun around the Autism community—one rooted in fear, misinformation, and a profound misunderstanding of disability. Referring to Autism as a “chronic disease” or an “epidemic” relies on outdated medical-model language that dehumanizes Autistic individuals, perpetuates stigma and stereotypes, and undermines decades of progress in disability rights. 

Despite claims of supporting the Autism community, the Administration’s recent actions tell a different story. The proposed restructuring of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)—including dismantling the Administration for Community Living, which exists to ensure full participation for people with disabilities—signals a dangerous rollback of vital protections. Similarly, the Executive Order to dissolve the Department of Education and transfer all “special needs” programs to HHS threatens the civil rights of students with disabilities and creates uncertainty around enforcement and accountability. On top of this, threatening cuts to Medicaid – a life-saving program – would be devastating to our community. These moves, coupled with sweeping layoffs at HHS, place critical disability laws and services in jeopardy. 

This harmful rhetoric and policy direction reflects a troubling lack of understanding, empathy, and respect for the Autism community—and risk undoing the inclusive progress our society has fought so hard to achieve. 

A Call for Action
The Autism community needs support, progressive research and actionable solutions—not misinformation, false hope, or rhetoric that sets us back decades. The Autism Society continues to call for a commitment to research led by credentialed, peer-reviewed experts who prioritize evidence-based, forward-thinking progress. Autism, science, and public health, affect everyone, and should not be politicized.