U.S. Representative Introduces Bill Offering Funding, Training for International Autism Supports

U.S. Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ) introduced a bill which supports international organizations that assist people with autism. More specifically, the Global Brain Health Act of 2019 would create: a health and education grant program for autism, aimed at non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in foreign countries that support people with autism; an advisory board that would screen applications; and a global training program for health and education professionals on autism.

The bill also includes funding for hydrocephalus assistance as part of foreign aid, and directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to negotiate with the World Health Organization (WHO) to develop a global plan to address Alzheimer’s.

While ANCOR does not have a position on this bill at this time, we will be monitoring it given that some of our members offer supports abroad. This bill continues the momentum of Rep. Smith as a rising Republican leader of disability issues.