As a member of the Coalition on Autism Research and Education, I have been focused on learning more about autism and how we can help improve the lives of those families who struggle with it. I have spent time working with families living with autism and my heart goes out to everyone who faces this challenge daily.

Research shows that autism has been on the rise over the last decade, affecting 1 in 150 children. These numbers are staggering. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical to helping children get the most out of current therapies. To help families access these treatments, I cosponsored the Autism Treatment Acceleration Act (H.R. 2413) which would require insurers to cover diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and evidence-based, medically-necessary autism treatments and therapies. The bill also promotes research and improves the coordination of care for those with autism by establishing Autism Care Center demonstration projects.

We cannot stop looking for innovative ways to help those with autism live healthy, productive lives.