Doris Matsui: “I am pleased to join my colleagues today in supporting critical investments made by this bill. I rise today in support…”

“I am pleased to join my colleagues today in supporting critical investments made by this bill. I rise today in support of my amendment, which will provide additional assistance for innovative programs that will help young people with developmental disabilities in obtaining and sustaining long-term employment. Madam Chair, 1 in 68 children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. More than 50,000 individuals with autism turn 18 every year, and 500,000 will age out of school systems in the next 10 years. A significant number of young adults with autism spectrum disorder remain unemployed and unenrolled in higher education in the 2 years after high school. Young adults on the autism spectrum often do not have access to an educational environment that can assist them in developing practical life skills, increase social capacity, and transition to work and independence. This amendment is a critical first step towards remedying that. Specifically, it will help support and promote innovative educational programs and focus on preparing students for entry into the workforce or pursuing higher education. The support offered through these initiative programs helps young adults find and maintain employment. In turn, this is a critical step towards independence, an opportunity to be more productive and to fully participate in all facets of community life.…”