Combating Autism Act

Combating Autism Act is a significant piece of legislation in the United States that was signed into law by President George W. Bush on December 19, 2006. The Act, officially known as Public Law 109-416, was designed to address the urgent need for a nationwide effort to combat autism through research, screening, intervention, and education.

Background[edit | edit source]

The Combating Autism Act was introduced in response to the increasing prevalence of autism in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the prevalence of autism has increased significantly over the past two decades, with current estimates suggesting that one in every 54 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Provisions[edit | edit source]

The Act authorized nearly $1 billion over five years to increase funding for autism research, screening, intervention, and education. It also called for the establishment of Centers of Excellence for Autism Spectrum Disorder Research and Epidemiology.

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President George W. Bush signs the Combating Autism Act into law on December 19, 2006.

Impact[edit | edit source]

The Combating Autism Act has had a significant impact on the autism community. It has led to increased research funding, which has resulted in a better understanding of the causes and treatments for autism. The Act has also led to improvements in the early detection and intervention of autism, which are critical to improving outcomes for individuals with autism.

Reauthorization[edit | edit source]

The Combating Autism Act was reauthorized in 2011 as the Combating Autism Reauthorization Act (CARA), and again in 2014 as the Autism CARES Act. The Autism CARES Act, which stands for Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education, and Support, continues the work started by the Combating Autism Act and ensures that the federal government continues to help meet the needs of individuals with autism and their families.