Press Releases

Washington, DC – U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19) today introduced the Autism Family Caregivers Act, a bipartisan bill that provides caregiver skills to families who care for children with autism spectrum disorder as well as children with other physical, intellectual and developmental disabilities. Rep. Molinaro introduced this bill during World Autism Month alongside U.S. Reps. Grace Meng (D-NY-6), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1), and Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28).

The bill will establish a five-year pilot program that awards grants to nonprofit organizations, community health centers, and hospital systems to provide evidence-based caregiver skills training to family caregivers of children with autism or other disabilities. These skills will teach family caregivers to use everyday routines and home activities to improve communication skills, daily living skills, social engagement, and behavior management.  

Rep. Molinaro said, “The Autism Caregivers Act is a bold, bipartisan bill that will provide caregiver skills training for family members who care for children with autism spectrum disorder. As the father of four children, one of whom is on the autism spectrum, I am excited that this bill will give families like mine the knowledge and tools to meet their children’s unique needs. Today, we are taking another step forward in our commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities.”

Rep. Meng said, “To ensure that children with autism spectrum disorders or other developmental disabilities are provided the tools they need to reach their full potential, we must provide their caregivers with the right skills and resources. My bipartisan Autism Family Caregivers Act is a demonstration of Congress’ commitment to those who give endless amounts of their time and energy to help their loved ones live more complete lives. I am proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing this important bill.”