Training And Research For Autism Improvements Nationwide Act Of 2010

Floor Speech

* Mr. Speaker, I offer my strong support for the Training and Research for Autism Improvements Nationwide Act--a bill that promotes much-needed training and research advancements related to Autism. This bill expands federal support for understanding and treating the Autism Spectrum Disorders which affect as many as 1 in 110 children born in the United States.

* Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that is typically diagnosed around the age of 3 years old and lasts throughout a person's lifetime. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified Autism as one of the nation's leading public health crises. An Autism-related diagnosis is more common than the diagnosis of pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined. Autism-related disorders occur in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups at similar rates; however, they are four times more common in boys than they are in girls. Recently, scientists have made advances in understanding Autistic symptomatology; yet there remains limited understanding about its causes and course. These disorders have a tremendous affect on the lives of the children and families who experience them, including challenges with education, communication, and employment possible.

* The Training and Research for Autism Improvements Nationwide Act will improve federal support for research and treatment related to Autism disorders. The bill establishes Centers of Excellence to train and provide services to children and families affected by Autism. I am well aware of the benefits of such comprehensive, targeted Centers of Excellence. I am proud that Chicago is home to the Therapeutic School and Center for Autism Research run by the Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago. This Center is a national leader in providing care and advancing research related to Autism Spectrum Disorders. Within one site, state-of-the-art education, research, training, early intervention, school-to-work transition training, and independent living training occur. It is a true resource to the children and families in Illinois and the nation. This Center reflects a strong public-private partnership in which the State of Illinois, the city of Chicago, the University of Illinois, and multiple for-profit and non-profit businesses came together to make this Center a reality. The success of this Center demonstrates the need and potential benefits of creating additional national Centers of Excellence, as authorized by this bill.

* In Chicago and across the country, it is clear that Autism significantly affects the lives of children and families. Additional federal efforts are needed to advance our understanding and response to Autism Spectrum Disorders. I strongly urge my colleagues to support the Training and Research for Autism Improvements Nationwide Act.

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