Washington - Today is the second annual World Autism Awareness Day. U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) is the author of the Helping HANDS for Autism Act (http://menendez.senate.gov/newsroom/record.cfm?id=310628) and co-sponsor of the Autism Treatment Acceleration Act, being introduced today with Senators Richard Durbin (D-IL) and Bob Casey (D-PA). Today, Menendez marked this occasion with a call for increased support for families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders.
"Families affected by autism too often face setbacks because of a lack of awareness and understanding of autism in our society," said Menendez. "This day is so important, because if we can increase awareness of autism, it will make a real difference in the lives of these families. In Congress, we have an opportunity to improve the support system for families, improve insurance coverage and increase awareness of autism. I am proud to have proposed these programs, and I am hoping that we can make this issue a part of health care reform."
The Helping HANDS for Autism Act, which was reintroduced last week, is a three-part legislative package that includes a program to guide families seeking services and care, increased awareness among first responders and housing for adults with ASD. At 1 in 94 children diagnosed with ASD, New Jersey has the highest rate in the nation.
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