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Posted by Melissa Hincha-Ownby Jun 23, 2008 |
On June 19, 2008, the Autism Society of America (ASA) issued a press release detailing the Helping HANDS for Autism Act which was recently introduced in the United States House of Representatives. The bill received bipartisan sponsorship with Representatives from Indiana, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Texas introducing the bill.
According to the ASA press release, “The Helping HANDS for Autism Act (HR 6282) is a three-part legislative package designed to support families dealing with autism spectrum disorders, increase awareness among first responders and public safety officials and provide housing options and services for adults with autism.”
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are being diagnosed at a rate of 1 in 150 children in the United States with some states reporting higher incidence rates. While many of today’s research and advocacy work is focused on young children with autism, family members of teenagers and young adults with autism and left wondering how to find transition services for their autistic loved ones.
The Helping HANDS for Autism Act (HR6282) will be working with a Housing and Urban Development (HUD) task force in order to create a housing grant program for autistic adults. While there are currently several living centers and residential programs available for adults on the autism spectrum, HR6282 and the HUD task force hope to create individual housing programs which support the adult while allowing them their independence.
It is important for those who provide services to families who have a child with autism understand that these autistic children grow up to be autistic adults. By looking forward and planning support services now, these families will be better prepared for the future.
Source: ASA Press Release