**Autism Society of America Applauds Initial Progress Toward Reauthorization of the Autism CARES Act**
The Autism Society of America, one of the nation’s leading advocacy organizations for individuals with autism and their families, has expressed strong support for the initial steps taken toward the reauthorization of the Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education, and Support (CARES) Act. This critical piece of legislation, first enacted in 2006 and reauthorized in 2014 and 2019, has been instrumental in advancing research, services, and support for individuals on the autism spectrum. The Autism Society’s endorsement of the reauthorization process underscores the importance of continued federal investment in autism-related programs and initiatives.
### What is the Autism CARES Act?
The Autism CARES Act is a landmark federal law that provides funding for autism research, services, and support programs. It is designed to improve the quality of life for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families by promoting collaboration across federal agencies, supporting research into the causes and treatment of autism, and enhancing services for individuals with autism throughout their lifespan.
The Act has three primary goals:
1. **Research**: The Autism CARES Act funds research into the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of autism. This includes studies on the genetic and environmental factors that may contribute to autism, as well as research into effective interventions and therapies.
2. **Services and Support**: The Act provides funding for programs that offer services and support to individuals with autism and their families. This includes early intervention services, educational programs, and vocational training to help individuals with autism lead fulfilling lives.
3. **Public Health and Awareness**: The Act promotes public awareness of autism and supports efforts to improve the early identification and diagnosis of autism. It also encourages the development of best practices for autism care and services.
### The Importance of Reauthorization
The Autism CARES Act has been reauthorized twice since its initial passage, with the most recent reauthorization occurring in 2019. Each reauthorization has allowed for the continuation and expansion of critical programs that benefit individuals with autism and their families. However, the current authorization is set to expire in 2024, making the reauthorization process a top priority for autism advocates.
The Autism Society of America has been a vocal proponent of the Autism CARES Act since its inception, and the organization is now calling for swift action to ensure that the Act is reauthorized before its expiration. The Society emphasizes that the reauthorization is essential to maintaining the progress made in autism research, services, and support over the past two decades.
### Initial Progress Toward Reauthorization
In recent months, there has been encouraging progress toward the reauthorization of the Autism CARES Act. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have expressed their support for the Act, recognizing its importance to millions of Americans affected by autism. The Autism Society of America has been actively engaging with members of Congress, urging them to prioritize the reauthorization process and ensure that the Act continues to receive the funding necessary to support individuals with autism.
The Autism Society has also been working closely with other advocacy organizations, researchers, and service providers to build a broad coalition in support of the reauthorization. This collaborative effort has helped to raise awareness of the critical need for continued federal investment in autism-related programs.
### The Impact of the Autism CARES Act
Since its initial passage, the Autism CARES Act has had a profound impact on the autism community. Some of the key achievements of the Act include:
– **Increased Research Funding**: The Act has provided significant funding for autism research, leading to important discoveries about the causes and treatment of autism. This research has helped to improve early diagnosis and intervention, which is critical for improving outcomes for individuals with autism.
– **Expanded Services and Support**: The Act has funded programs that provide services and support to individuals with autism and their families. This includes early intervention services for young children, educational programs for school-aged children, and vocational training for adults with autism.
– **Improved Public Awareness**: The Act has helped to raise public awareness of autism and reduce the stigma associated with the condition. This has led to greater acceptance of individuals with autism and increased support for autism-related programs.
– **Lifespan Approach**: The 2019 reauthorization of the Autism CARES Act placed a greater emphasis on addressing the needs of individuals with autism across their lifespan. This includes support for adults with autism, who often face challenges related to employment, housing, and healthcare.
### The Road Ahead
While the initial progress toward reauthorization is promising, there is still much work to be done. The Autism Society of America is calling on lawmakers to move quickly to reauthorize the Autism CARES Act and ensure that it continues to provide the funding and support necessary to improve the lives of individuals with autism.
The Society is also advocating for several key priorities in the reauthorization process, including:
– **Increased Funding**
