ADVOCACY FOR AUTISM

What is the AUTISM HEAR US NOW PAC?

Autism Hear Us Now PAC supports Federal Senators and U.S. Representatives that sponsor, co-sponsor and endorse legislation that supports and endorses legislation that promotes the principles of disability rights and advocates for appropriations to ensure federal agencies successfully run programs for autism research, services, and are appropriately funded.

Twelve appropriations bills, which provide funding for the federal government in the next fiscal year, must pass each year. On December 20, 2019, two appropriations “minibuses” were enacted that include the funding bills for all federal departments and agencies. This spending package includes wins for autism research and services, including:

  • $2.6 billion increase for the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The bill encourages the NIH to aggressively invest in autism research consistent with the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) Strategic Plan, which called for a doubling in autism research spending. Specifically, it calls for “greater investment in research and collaborations focused on addressing the gaps outlined in the Strategic Plan.”young autistic boy being tested at the doctors office.
  • $168 million increase for the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
  • $15 million for the Autism Research Program at the Department of Defense. This is double the level of spending than FY 2019. Since its inception in Fiscal Year 2007, about $100 million has been directed to promote innovative research designed to advance the understanding of ASD and to improve the lives of those living with autism.
  • $2 million to reduce the risk of injury or death related to the wandering characteristics of some children with autism. This funding will allow for the implementation of Kevin and Avonte’s legislation that was passed into law last year.
  • $23.1 million for autism activities at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). CDC’s work includes providing essential data on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developing resources to help identify children as early as possible.
  • $1.75 million increase to the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) for autism activities, with $35.2 million of HRSA funds designated for LEND.
  • $13.9 billion for IDEA special education. This is a $417 million increase over last year.

These funding increases and focus on autism-specific programs keep us on a path toward new autism discoveries and supports.

Rep. Chris Smith

Key Legislation this Candidate Endorses
H.R. 1058Autism Support Act
H.R. 2077 Global Brain Health Act
H.R. 3520 Stem Cell Research Act
H.R. 4519Pediatricians Childhood Therapies Act

Please VOTE for Rep. Chris Smith- New Jersey’s 4th District

Representative Terri Sewell headshot

Rep. Terri Sewell

Key Legislation this Candidate Endorses
H.R. 1662Student Success Act
H.R. 5741 Medicare and Medicaid Act
H.R. 5254 Diabetic Blindness Prevention Act
H.R. 2573Health Payment Act

Please VOTE for Rep. Terri Sewell- Alabama’s 7th District

Rep. Julia Brownley

Key Legislation this Candidate Endorses
H.R. 1058Autism SupportAct
H.R. 4228Rare Disease Education Act
H.R. 1109 Mental Health Services Students Act
H.R. 4393Advancing Precision Medicine Act

Please VOTE for Rep. Julie Browley – California’s 26th District

As the 2020 election cycle ramps up, your contributions in part will be distributed as shown in the graph below.  Depending on the final net budget available, we strategically determine the best voter demographics to encourage constituents to vote for the candidates we support.

EXAMPLES FROM 2018 ELECTION