Alright – so, the federal autism legislation, Autism Collaboration Accountability Research Education and Support (Autism Cares Act) is up for reauthorization. It was voted in the House 402 – 13. Rep. Smith a GOP from NJ and Rep. Doyle from PA as usual have been pushing and took it to the finish line before the act expired end of Sept, 2024.
I have met both Doyle and Smith when I was in IACC and spoken with their health policy adviser the last two reauthorization cycles when we were able to get all MN congress folks to vote for it. It had a hearing in the Senate HELP committee and I noticed Sen. Tina Smith was silent even when the Senator from NM was visibly emotional. How lovely, I am sure Sen. Tina Smith will come to collect Somali votes next election cycle and as the village idiots we are, we will forget and only remember she said “iska waran” or ate one sanbusa. Ugh, so frustrating.
At any rate, I cannot write about this legislation again as I have extensively done it before. In a nutshell, it supports the ADDM from CDC, NIH’s autism research, Lend programs from HRSA, IACC and so many other amazing autism work.
I do know that coalition of severe autism groups wrote letters to the authors asking changes which included elimination of IACC. I do not agree with this but did not write about it or contacted anyone to advocate as I am trying to retire. Although I miss advocating at the federal level. Believe it or not, it was a lot easier and more welcoming than advocating in Minnesota. Sadly, I still do not see another Somali Autism Parent who wants to carry the mantel and the struggle. God Willing – it will happen.
I suggest people read this entire legislation, its history and who voted for it and against it then vote wisely and let’s use our votes to support autism families.
The above words do not reflect any candidate, agency, or committee.
Idil – Somali Autism Mom & Retired Advocate.