[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 64 (Monday, May 10, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E798]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING THE IMPORTANCE OF INCREASING AWARENESS OF AUTISM

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                               speech of

                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 5, 2004

  Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, according to the Autism Society 
of America, autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in 
the country. Growing at a rate of 10-17 percent every year, it is 
estimated that autism could affect a staggering four million Americans 
in the coming decade.
  Despite these alarming figures, autism is an issue that is simply not 
getting enough attention. For whatever reason, society appears to be 
all too quick to overlook the matter. It is the duty of this House to 
ensure not only that autism research is intensified, but also that 
autism awareness is increased. H. Res. 605 addresses both of these key 
endeavors.
  The cost of autism-related services such as evaluations, home 
programs, and therapies is expensive. Many families across the nation 
are having to bare the financial burden of these services with limited 
assistance. According to the Autism Society of America, the cost of 
lifelong care can be reduced by two thirds with early diagnosis and 
intervention. Therefore, in the long run, increased spending on early 
detection would, in fact, ease the financial burden of treating 
individuals with autism.
  Autism is a so-called ``spectrum disorder.'' Thus, it effects 
individuals to varying degrees of severity. Accordingly, early 
detection of autism would enable individuals with autism to receive the 
necessary attention and treatment to meet their respective needs. This, 
in turn, increases his or her chances of living with minimal disability 
related difficulties. Later in life, worker-training programs provide 
an additional and invaluable opportunity for individuals to get the 
necessary training to help them participate effectively in the 
workforce.
  In conclusion, I reiterate my support for H. Res. 605, and urge all 
of my colleagues to support this important bill. We must all work 
together to curb the increase in autism and to raise awareness about 
the nature of the disability.

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