Upholding the promise of the Autism CARES Act

The IACC has played an important role in helping shape federal research priorities. The Autism CARES Act envisions a committee with strong representation from the autism research and clinical community, leading autism organizations, autistic self-advocates, and family members. We are concerned that the current composition does not fully reflect that balance. The committee’s impact depends on work that remains grounded in rigorous science and informed by the full breadth of lived experiences of autistic people and their families.

We will continue to engage constructively with Congress and federal research agencies to advocate for research funding that addresses the core needs of the autism community, such as addressing co-occurring medical conditions, mental health, and supports that improve outcomes across the lifespan, including adulthood and aging.

To support this work, we are launching a focused effort to track how the priorities of the Autism CARES Act are being carried out across federal agencies. This work will identify practical, data-driven indicators to help show where progress is being made, where gaps remain, and whether current federal investments reflect the full range of needs across the autism spectrum, including aging, co-occurring conditions, services, and supports. By bringing together available federal data in a clearer and more timely way, this effort will help inform policymakers, advocates, and the public as decisions are made about future research funding, services, and program priorities.

For over two decades, Autism Speaks has been a leader in autism research and advocacy, guided by our Medical and Science Advisory Committee. We urge Congress and federal agencies to ensure that funding, research, and services under the Autism CARES Act reflect the priorities established in law and respond to the real needs of autistic people and their families across the lifespan.