Policy Pulse Newsletter - November 2024

In this newsletter:

• Message of thanks
• Autism CARES Act of 2024
• Testifying before Congress
• 2025 state advocacy planning

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Message of thanks

During this week of Thanksgiving, I want to share my sincere thanks for each and every advocate who has raised their voice with us this year. Together, we have sent tens of thousands of messages to Congress and state policymakers - driving meaningful change for our community. The year isn't over yet though - so we hope you join us as we end the year strong! 

 - David Sitcovsky, Vice President of Advocacy

US Senates passes Autism CARES Act of 2024

In a significant step forward for autism advocacy, the United States Senate has passed the Autism CARES Act of 2024, advancing the critical legislation back to the House of Representatives for final consideration.

Programs under the Autism CARES Act enhance the quality of life of autistic people and expand our ability to provide effective and quality services for people with autism and their families through research, data and training. New elements in this iteration of the bill will:

• Improve inclusivity in research; 
• Expand access to communication tools and technologies like AAC devices; 
• Address developmental-behavioral pediatricians shortages;
• Increase focus on mental health needs of autistic people; and much more!

Learn more & Take action.
 

Testifying before Congress

We joined important events on Capitol Hill this month, underscoring the need to raise awareness and drive meaningful action on autism issues among our nation's lawmakers.

Congressional Hearing on Global Public Health Our Chief Science Officer testified at a subcommittee hearing with the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. The meeting addressed the unmet global needs for greater understanding and acceptance of autism, infrastructure for services, and access to quality healthcare.

Congressional Briefing on Support for Caregivers In recognition of November as National Family Caregivers Month, Autism Speaks joined a briefing highlighting the experiences of family caregivers in the United States. We are proud to advocate for caregivers' needs by supporting bills like the Autism Family Caregivers Act.

Gearing up for a new year of state advocacy

As state legislative sessions approach in early 2025, our dedicated team is engaging in critical conversations about the current state of autism resources and identifying key strategies to create meaningful change through policy. In some states, like Massachusetts, we are already weighing in with recommendations for the Governor's next state budget. 

By amplifying the voices of the autism community, some of the challenges we aim to address include:

• access to quality HCBS,
• increasing special education resources,
• improved transition to adulthood, 
• employment opportunities for autistic adults, and
• gaps in insurance coverage of autism services. 

Stay tuned for updates in your state as we push forward with efforts to make a lasting impact.

News Corner

• Disability Scoop highlights workforce challenges for direct support professionals - an advocacy priority of Autism Speaks.
• Miss Texas, Annette Addo-Yobo shares with CBS Texas why she is advocating for Congress to pass the Autism CARES Act.

Autism Speaks Action Center