Autism CARES Act of 2024: How Does it Impact Individuals With Autism and Their Families?

January 24, 2025

What Benefits Does the Autism CARES Act of 2024 Bring to Neurodiverse Families?

Did you know that in the United States, approximately 1 in 36 children is diagnosed with autism? For many families, an autism diagnosis brings with it a mix of emotions and questions, especially about access to appropriate resources and services. One of the key pieces of legislation that is making a significant difference in the lives of these families is the Autism CARES Act.

But what changes does this legislation bring, and how does it benefit children, teens, and adults with autism? The Autism CARES Act of 2024, recently signed into law by President Joe Biden, not only ensures the continuation of essential programs but expands critical resources to support children, teens, and adults with autism, as well as their families.

In this Texas ABA Centers blog, we’ll explain how this law seeks to improve the quality of life for thousands of people and strengthen the support they receive.

What is the Autism CARES Act of 2024?

The Autism CARES Act of 2024 (Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education, and Support) is renewed and expanded legislation that reaffirms the U.S. government’s commitment to research, education, and services related to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This law is a continuation of previous versions, first passed in 2006 and renewed in 2014 and 2019.

On December 23, 2024, President Joe Biden signed this law with the goal of ensuring that families and individuals with ASD receive the support they need throughout all stages of life, from infancy through adulthood. This law reauthorizes and expands existing programs under previous versions, ensuring the continuity of ASD-related research, services, monitoring, and training.

In addition, the Act extends the activities and funding of key programs, such as the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC), through September 2029. The Autism CARES Act of 2024 ensures that families and individuals with autism continue to receive the support they need over the long term.

Key Areas of Focus of the Autism CARES Act 2024

The Autism CARES Act 2024 focuses on three main areas that seek to address the most pressing needs related to autism:

Expanded Autism Research:

A significant focus of the Act is to increase funding for scientific research on ASD. This area includes:

Delving deeper into the genetic and environmental causes of autism.
Developing more effective and personalized treatments.
Enhance understanding of the needs of individuals with autism at various stages of their lives.
The National Institute of Health (NIH) plays a vital role in the administration of these funds ($1.95 billion), with the intention of addressing not only the medical needs but also the social and educational aspects related to ASD.

Education and Professional Training:

The Autism CARES Act 2024 also emphasizes the importance of training more professionals in the medical, educational, and social service fields to work with individuals with autism, including:

Creating training programs for physicians, therapists, and teachers
Developing inclusive strategies for schools and workplaces
Increasing awareness of neurodiversity

Comprehensive Support for Families:

Perhaps the most significant aspect of the Autism CARES Act of 2024 is the direct support it provides to families. The legislation expands programs that offer:

Accessible diagnostic and treatment services, like early intervention and ABA therapy.
Assistance in the transition from adolescence to adulthood, focusing on higher education and employment
Support networks for caregivers who often face emotional and financial challenges

How Does the Autism CARES Act of 2024 Benefit Families and Individuals with Autism?

Understanding the impact of the Autism CARES Act of 2024 requires focusing on its practical benefits.

Access to Essential Resources: With increased funding for state and local programs, families will have broader access to essential services, such as early assessments and interventions, ensuring that children receive support as early as possible. In addition, access to scientifically supported interventions, such as ABA therapy, will be made more readily available. Facilitating access to essential interventions is especially crucial in rural or underserved communities.
Transition to Adulthood: One of the biggest challenges for families is properly supporting their children with ASD during the transition to adulthood. The Autism CARES Act 2024 establishes resources to facilitate this process, from job training programs to support for independent living.

Inclusion in Education and Employment: The Act seeks to promote the inclusion of people with autism in schools and workplaces by encouraging policies that respect diversity and provide equal opportunities. Acceptance of neurodiversity not only benefits people with autism but also enriches society by harnessing the unique talents they bring to the table.

Caregiver Support: Caring for an individual with autism requires time, resources, and a thorough understanding of the needs of people on the spectrum. The Autism CARES Act of 2024 provides resources for caregivers, such as educational materials and training programs.

The Historical Impact of the Autism CARES Act

Since its first passage 19 years ago, the Autism CARES Act has transformed the way the United States addresses autism and other developmental disabilities. Among its most notable achievements are:

Increased understanding of autism: Thanks to this law, research on ASD has grown exponentially, providing new data on its causes, diagnosis, and treatment.
Expanded support across the lifespan: Previous versions of the law laid the groundwork for addressing the changing needs of people with autism, from infancy through adulthood.
Prevalence monitoring: The law has funded studies to identify the number of people with autism in the country and understand their needs.

Texas ABA Centers celebrates the approval of the Autism CARES Act of 2024, ensuring continued progress and expansion in autism care.

Autism Laws: A Focus on Neurodiversity and the Future

The Autism CARES Act of 2024 not only focuses on providing services but also promotes a change in the societal perception of autism. By boosting research, professional training, and family support, this Act reinforces the importance of neurodiversity and creating a more inclusive world.

For example, many companies are beginning to implement targeted hiring programs for individuals on the autism spectrum, recognizing their abilities in areas such as logical thinking, creativity, and attention to detail. This cultural shift is made possible by initiatives such as those encouraged by this law.

How can families honor the Autism CARES Act of 2024?

Staying informed: Keep up with recent law developments and their impact on local services.
Getting Involved: Participate in autism groups that advocate for the protection of autism programs and autism laws.
Sharing: Share your personal story to inspire, raise awareness, and support other parents who have had experiences similar to yours. Individual stories can reach policymakers and help secure support and funding.

Texas ABA Centers and Autism Support

The Autism CARES Act of 2024 is much more than legislation; it reflects America’s continued commitment to individuals with autism and their families. By expanding research, improving professional training, and ensuring accessible resources, these autism laws can change the lives of thousands of people positively.

At Texas ABA Centers, we celebrate the fact that the Autism Cares Act of 2024 is now law! Our commitment to providing diagnostic, early intervention, and ABA therapy services continues to be stronger than ever.

If you have a family member with autism or want to be an advocate for neurodiversity, knowing and sharing information about autism laws is an important step.

To learn more about autism support services in Plano, Katy, Austin, and other areas of Texas, call us at (877) 771-5725 or contact us through our website. The road to a more inclusive society begins with understanding and supporting each other!