On the recordApril 27, 2010
Mr. Speaker, April is Autism Awareness Month, and I call for increased research into and treatment for this leading developmental disorder. Autism impacts more of our children every day, and it is becoming exceptionally prevalent in our American society. The number of American families who must learn to cope with autism is growing every day. An estimated one out of every 110 children born in the United States are now diagnosed with autism. We have got to invest in the research that will allow us to better understand and to treat this serious disorder. For individuals already living with autism and those children who will be diagnosed this year, we must make this a priority. Autism's hold on our families, our children, and our country must be broken. I look forward to the day when children diagnosed with this developmental disorder can live full and healthy lives. Let's pass this bill before us today. ____________________
