On September 30th, the Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education and Support (Autism CARES) Act of 2019 (H.R.1058/S.427) was signed into law, authorizing $1.8 billion in federal funding. The National Institute of Health (NIH) Autism Centers of Excellence is the primary recipient of this funding, providing them the opportunity to continue autism research over the next five years (Autism Speaks, 2019).

Research will be aimed at...

1. Advancing the scientific understanding of autism (ASD)
2. Expanding efforts to develop treatments for medical conditions associated with ASD
3. Addressing the needs of people affected by ASD
   • Increasing resources for early detection
   • Improving intervention strategies
   • Providing education for professionals, families and communities
   • Disseminating tangible resources.

As occupational therapists, we are excited for the positive impact this will have on our profession as we continue to strive for evidence-based, best practice solutions! We have been granted an opportunity to increase our understanding, help educate others, further our intervention strategies, all while collecting and sharing the latest research!