Autism – Combating Autism Reauthorization Act to be voted on this evening by the House of Representatives

The Combating Autism Reauthorization Act is schedule to be voted on in the U.S. House of Representatives today. Amongst other things, the Act sets out authorizations for research funding for autism. This is also the law which authorizes the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC).

Below is the announcement from The Arc. The link helps you find your congressperson’s phone number to call and ask them to vote (my congressman is voting for it).

GOOD NEWS AND ACTION NEEDED TODAY
URGE YOUR REPRESENTATIVE TO PASS THE COMBATING AUTISM ACT REAUTHORIZATION
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September 20, 2011

We have good news! It appears that our advocacy over the past few weeks is starting to pay off!

We have just been informed (directly by Majority Leader Eric Cantor’s office) that the House leadership has put HR 2005, the reauthorization of the Combating Autism Act, on the “suspension calendar” today, Tuesday, September 20 at 6:30 p.m. This means that the House bill could be passed on a fast-track procedure without committee consideration. They need 2/3 of the Representatives present and voting for the bill to be passed under this procedure.

What Does the Combating Autism Act Do?

It provides funding to educate professionals about proper screening, diagnosis, and intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. It also funds autism research and surveillance. The Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) program is just one of the things that the CAA supports. Click here to learn more.

Why is This Important Now?

The Combating Autism Act will expire at the end of this month. If it is not reauthorized before then, people with autism and other developmental disabilities stand to lose appropriate diagnostic, early intervention, and support services.

Take Action

Call your Representative’s office TODAY before 6:30 p.m. EST. Click on the “Take Action” link and enter your zip code to locate your representative’s phone number.

What to Say:

“Please Vote for H.R. 2005, the reauthorization of the Combating Autism Act, when it comes up for a vote under “Suspension of the Rules” this evening.”

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