National Updates
The Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) released a new fast facts sheet that looks at updated data collected on children whose primary disability is Autism. In 2022-23 students identified with Autism were less likely to be served in the regular class 80% or more of the day compared to all students with disabilities. The sheet is linked below.
OSEP Fast Facts: Children Identified with Autism
A House of Representatives bill that includes a line item that would prevent the FDA from banning electric shock devices (particularly those used at the Judge Rotenberg Center - an educational institution in Maryland) was passed by a subcommittee. This is a funding bill for various agencies and contains specific language targeting the devices used by the center. It will move to the House Appropriations Committee on July 10th. Please get in touch with your state representatives using the Autism Society link below and educate them about these harmful practices. Action Alert to Stop Electric Shock Devices
The Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee released its annual Autism Cares Act 2023 to Congress. It describes federal agencies' progress in screening, diagnosing, and treating Autistic individuals. You can access the report at the link below.
IACC Report to Congress
The Autism CARES Act and the Lifespan Respite Care Program are up for reauthorization. You can utilize the Autism Society of America’s Voter Voice action links to encourage members of Congress to support these crucial legislations. You can access these at the links below.
Autism Cares Act Reauthorization
Lifespan Respite Care Program Reauthorization
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