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In the News

 

June 1, 2011

 

Encourage Congress to Cosponsor the Combating Autism Reauthorization Act of 2011

 

Please read below to learn more about new legislation that will help maintain federal funding for research and services for those on the autism spectrum.

 

From Autism Votes:

Last Thursday, The Combating Autism Reauthorization Act (CARA) of 2011 was introduced in both the Senate and the House. Senators Robert Menendez (NJ) and Mike Enzi (WY) introduced S. 1094 and Congressmen Chris Smith (NJ) and Mike Doyle (PA) introduced H.R. 2005.  This newly introduced legislation will reauthorize the Combating Autism Act (CAA) of 2006. Key components in the original landmark legislation will expire on September 30, threatening further federal support for critical research, services and treatment for autism spectrum disorders unless this vital legislation is enacted.

The Senators and Congressmember from your state have not signed on to cosponsor this important legislation yet.  They need to hear from you! 
Here is How YOU Can Help:

1) CALL BOTH OF YOUR SENATORS AND ASK THEM TO COSPONSOR SENATE BILL 1094 TODAY!

CALL: Sen. Richard Lugar
Phone: (202) 224-4814
CALL: Sen. Daniel Coats
Phone: (202) 224-5623


2) CALL YOUR CONGRESSMEMBER AND ASK THEM TO COSPONSOR HOUSE BILL 2005 NOW!

CALL: Rep. Joe Donnelly
Phone: (202) 225-3915If you aren't sure of what to say, say this:

"Hi. My name is (NAME) and I live at (ADDRESS). I am calling today to ask you to sign on and cosponsor (S.1094 or H.R.2005) - the Combating Autism Reauthorization Act. This bill extends legislation enacted in 2006. This is important to me because (state one sentence why this is important to you and your family.) Thank you so much."

**NOTE: If you don't see your Senators' or Congressmember's name and number listed above, please go here to find contact information.

2) AFTER YOU MAKE YOUR CALLS, PLEASE SEND A FOLLOW UP EMAIL HERE.  Personal calls are VERY important. Make those before you send the emails. We get you started but remember to take a minute to personalize your message.  

3) ASK THREE PEOPLE YOU KNOW TO HELP YOU DO THIS! Think outside the autism box and ask your neighbors, coworkers, family members (aunts/uncles/grandparents) to get involved and help pass this important legislation.  They can sign up at Autism Votes here.