Senate approves Autism CARES

Autism impacts many individuals throughout the nation. Some of those individuals reside in the state of Texas. Because the condition affects so many people, it receives a lot of attention. That attention comes from a variety of places including federal lawmakers. Recently the country’s primary autism legislation, known as the Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education and Support Act, was renewed by the U.S. Senate.

The bill’s approval authorizes funding throughout 2019 for programs related to autism. Each year up to $260 million may be provided to these programs. Among other things the autism programs are related to:

• Early identification.
• Training for professionals.
• Prevalence tracking.
• Research.

Programs such as these can go a long way toward improving the lives of individuals living with autism and those who care for them.

While some people living with autism are able to function fairly normally and lead an independent life, others are dependent on others to help with day-to-day tasks. Whatever the impact, of the condition on someone’s life, providing the necessary care can be expensive and not everyone can work the requisite hours necessary to cover those costs. Fortunately disability benefits may be available from the Social Security Administration.

Another bill that recently moved forward from a House panel was the Achieving a Better Life Experience. Known as ABLE, if approved by the U.S. Senate, it would make it possible for disabled individuals to maintain those Social Security benefits while still saving up to $100,000. For autistic individuals who find that they are able to work part time, this development would likely be welcomed.

Source: The Disability Scoop, “Autism Act Wins Senate Approval,” Michelle Diament, Aug. 1, 2014