Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education, and Support Act of 2024

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in support of the Senate amendment to H.R. 7213, the Autism CARES Act. This bipartisan legislation, sponsored by Representatives Smith and Cuellar, will reauthorize funding for a variety of programs that support autism education, research, and resources.

Mr. Speaker, in the United States, about 1 in 36 children have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The prevalence of autism in children has been increasing every 2 years.

With these worrisome statistics in mind, it is important that we reauthorize the critical research and funding for the Autism CARES Act in order to continue this collaborative nationwide program.

In 2006, the original Autism CARES Act, which was then known as the Combating Autism Act, was signed into law. This law built a public health infrastructure that addresses autism on the Federal level directed by the Department of Health and Human Services.

From that point forward, over $5 billion has been invested in addressing autism through various programs related to autism research, autism support services, early detection training for medical providers, and autism education.

With this legislation, we renew and expand support for Federal autism programs, underscoring our commitment to addressing the growing needs of individuals with autism and their families. The legislation authorizes funding over the next 5 years for key programs under the Health Resources and Services Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Institutes of Health.

The legislation addresses challenges related to autism and aging, inclusivity in autism research, strengthening the developmental- behavioral pediatrician workforce, and mental health and communication supports, particularly for autistic individuals who may be unable or limited in their speech capabilities.

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Ms. CASTOR of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I am prepared to close, and I reserve the balance of my time.

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Ms. CASTOR of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to support H.R. 7213, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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