In this issue of Capitol Connection, you will find updates on federal funding and appropriations, key congressional and agency actions affecting the Autism community, and important state advocacy efforts across the country. We encourage you to stay engaged and visit the Autism Society of America’s Action Center to connect with your Legislators on these critical issues.

Disability Policy Seminar

Advocates have less than a month left to register for the Disability Policy Seminar, taking place March 23–24 in Washington, D.C. This annual event brings together self-advocates, families, professionals, and partners from across the country to learn about the key federal issues affecting the intellectual and developmental disability community. Participants will gain insights on current policy priorities and advocacy strategies, then apply what they learn during meetings with their Members of Congress on Capitol Hill. The seminar offers a unique opportunity to elevate the voices and experiences of the disability community directly with federal policymakers. Register today!

Fiscal Year 2026 Funding and Beyond

Congress has passed nearly all Fiscal Year 2026 funding bills, except for the Department of Homeland Security, which remains shut down. Despite this, the Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education funding bill delivered important gains for the Autism community.

The approved funding package provides nearly $400 million for Autism CARES Act–related research and programs. This includes increased support for Autism initiatives managed through the Health Resources and Services Administration. Lawmakers also restored $8 million at the Department of Defense for Autism research, highlighting the federal commitment to advancing scientific understanding and services. Additionally, Congress directed the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to fully implement new components of the Autism CARES Act of 2024 and to continue investing in Autism research. These measures aim to sustain progress in research, coordination, and program development under the updated law.

In education, Congress maintained funding for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and other special education programs at the Department of Education. The bill also emphasizes that the Department must maintain adequate staffing to carry out its responsibilities, and that core program functions cannot be shifted without congressional approval.

Beyond funding, two key Autism and disability policy measures were included in the bills:

The Ensuring Access to Medicaid Buy-In and Programs Act, which expands Medicaid coverage options for working people with disabilities.

The Lifespan Respite Care Act, which continues support for respite services that help families and caregivers provide long-term care.

The Autism Society is now turning its attention to Fiscal Year 2027 appropriations. The Administration is expected to release its budget requests to Congress after the President’s State of the Union on February 24.

Senate Hearing on Modernizing the Na...

Autism Society

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