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Ask Congress to Support Autism Research Funding

The Administration and Congress are currently working on Fiscal Year 2022 Appropriations.

Congress will soon be making important decisions about funding for programs that impact people with autism and their families. The co-chairs of the Bipartisan House Autism Caucus have written letters to their colleagues in support of increased funding for programs authorized by the Autism CARES Act, research on autism for those in the military, and for safety programs authorized by Kevin and Avonte’s Law.

Please write to your Representatives and ask them to contact Representatives Chris Smith (NJ) and Mike Doyle (PA) to sign on to these letters in support of funding for research, surveillance, safety, and services for people with autism. Use the sample letter in this Action Center or write your own.

Thank you.
Transformation to Competitive Integrated Employment Act

The Transformation to Competitive Employment Act was just introduced in the 117th Congress of the United States.
Thank You- American Rescue Plan Act
On Wednesday, March 10th, Congress passed the American Rescue Act, which finally includes funding targeted to people with disabilities. This includes $12.7 billion dedicated funding for one year to strengthen and expand access to Medicaid home and community-based services (HCBS). These funds can be used to address waiting lists for services, hire and retain direct support professionals, provide respite, and get vaccines, tests, and personal protective equipment to people with autism living at homes or in group homes. For the first time, education funding includes $3 billion targeted for special education, including for pre-school and early interventions.

In addition to the community-based services and special education funding, other critical provisions in the bill include:
- Including all people with disabilities, including "adult dependents" in receiving stimulus payments
- Extension and expansion of tax credits to cover COVID leave, so that families can support loved ones while care is interrupted.
- Extension and expansion of unemployment, housing, and nutrition support.
This is an incredible victory, thanks to you! Advocates all across America from the Autism Society sent over 700 letters to members of Congress advocating for funding for HCBS and Special Education. Please use this action alert to thank your members of Congress for passing this legislation.
URGE STATE LEGISLATORS: Urge them to Use Federal Funding for Autism Services

Congress has passed approximately $3 trillion in federal funding to assist states to deal with the COVID-19 public health crisis. Urge your Governors and State legislators to advocate for some of the money to be used to assist people with autism and other developmental disabilities.