Meehan Supports Kids First Research Act

Press Release

Congressman Patrick Meehan (PA-07) today announced his support for H.R. 1724, the Kids First Research Act, bipartisan legislation to increase research funding for pediatric diseases and disorders including autism. Meehan, a member of the Congressional Autism Caucus, is an original cosponsor of the bill introduced today by Congressman Gregg Harper (MS-3).

The Kids First Research Act directs new funds to expand pediatric and autism research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) by eliminating federal funding for the Democratic and Republican National Conventions.

"New research shows one in 50 school aged children has autism, and yet there is still so much we don't understand about autism spectrum disorders," Meehan said. "This new initiative can help kick-start federal research into pediatric illnesses and particularly autism. We owe it to our children to help solve this puzzle and put kids first."

"I'm honored to be a voice for families with loved ones living with autism and will continue my work to prioritize funding for research and bring awareness to the issue," Meehan added.

Since coming to Congress, Congressman Meehan has been a leading voice for people with autism and their families. Meehan helped lead a recent Oversight and Government Reform Committee hearing that examined the federal government's response to autism, the first congressional hearing on autism in a decade. Following that hearing, Meehan hosted a roundtable discussion with local advocacy groups and service organizations to discuss the concerns of individuals and their families who are living with autism every day. Meehan also supported and helped pass into law the Combating Autism Reauthorization Act, which continued federal funding for critical autism research.

Meehan was recently recognized by Autism Speaks for his "outstanding support of the Autism community."

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