Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton has released her “Plan to Support Children, Youth, and Adults Living with Autism and Their Families.” This autism initiative would include screening, diagnosis, treatment, services, support for families and caregivers, and an increase in research funding.

The plan was released on January 5, with a conference call featuring state Senator Bob Casey, who is a member of the Congressional Autism Caucus. He emphasized the daily challenges for individuals with autism and their families:

• The need for tools and supports to help lead a full life;
• Implementation by each state of the ABLE Act to offer funding options for enhancing daily living;
• Development of a study on autism in adults; and
• Development of an awareness campaign to emphasize the need for early screening and interventions.