New Jersey, USA : Both house and Senate have approved and passed the Autism Trauma and Care act. Implications of the passing of this bill means a vast improvement in the Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education and Support (Autism CARES) Act, and the  Improving Trauma Care Act of 2014. Making the policy more workable for the average American family.

The legislation also reforms these programs to increase coordination across federal agencies and provide a comprehensive understanding of the issues facing transitioning youth and adults with autism. According to a recently released report by the CDC, one in 68 children nationwide are being diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by the age of eight. This represents an increase from 1 in 88 children just two years ago. New Jersey has the highest rate of ASD diagnosis with 1 in 45 children.

“The bipartisan Autism CARES Act represents our strong commitment to continuing the groundbreaking work being done to address autism and build the foundation for these efforts for years to come,” said Sen. Menendez. “I am particularly pleased this bill includes provisions based on my legislation, the AGE-IN Act, to better address the needs of individuals with autism as they grow into adulthood and no longer have the support of school-based programs. I’m optimistic the House will quickly adopt this language as they continue work on their bill so we can speak with one voice about the importance of reauthorizing these vital programs.”

by Shân Ellis