Rep. Engel Says Autism Cares Act Extends Critical Funding for Autism

Press Release

Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and a member of the Subcommittee on Health, voted for the "Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education and Support Act," or the Autism CARES Act, which strengthens America's efforts to fight autism.

Autism affects more than two million individuals and their families across our country. The rate of diagnosis has climbed dramatically in recent years; and today, 1 out of every 68 American children is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder by the age of eight.

The Autism CARES Act will extend and strengthen the efforts established under the Combating Autism Act of 2006, and the Combating Autism Reauthorization Act of 2011. Congressman Engel proudly co-sponsored both bills, and spoke in support of the Autism CARES Act on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.

"The Autism CARES Act ensures that federal autism programs continue for another five years, extends vital autism research and prevalence monitoring, as well as training for medical professionals. The bill will also provide valuable updates to the law, increase coordination across federal agencies and improve our understanding of the issues youth and young adults face as they transition out of school-based services. These changes will advance our understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder and allow us to better assist the millions of Americans it impacts," said Congressman Engel.

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