Autism Family Caregivers Act

Summary#

This bill creates the "Caregiver Skills Training Pilot Program" run by the Department of Health and Human Services through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The program would award grants to eligible organizations to provide evidence-based caregiver skills training to family caregivers of children ages 0–9 with autism spectrum disorder or other developmental disabilities or delays. Grants must be used to provide training at no cost to participants on topics such as communication, social engagement, daily living skills, responses to challenging behaviors, and caregiver coping and self-care. Grant recipients must form a local stakeholder implementation committee, coordinate with community organizations, schools, Medicaid programs, Head Start, and payors, and aim to reach medically underserved communities.

What it means for you#

• Family caregivers of children (0–9) diagnosed with autism or other developmental disabilities could receive free, evidence-based training to help with daily skills, communication, social engagement, and challenging behaviors.
• Local nonprofits, Federally Qualified Health Centers, academic medical centers, health systems, or consortia with at least 3 years of relevant experience can apply for grants to run these programs.
• Training must be culturally and linguistically appropriate and include input from family caregivers, health providers, educators, local organizations, and local officials.
• Programs must plan for coordination with schools, early intervention providers, Medicaid state plans or waivers, health plans, and other payors.

Expenses#

• The bill authorizes $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2030 (total authorization of $50,000,000).
• The Secretary must award grants to at least 25 eligible entities in at least 15 States.
• Each grant must be not less than $500,000 over a 5-year period.
• Grant funds must supplement, not supplant, services covered by Medicaid, private insurance, or services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

Proponents' View#

Supporters framed the program to improve the well-being of children with autism or other developmental disabilities and their caregivers, increase inclusion of children in family and community life, ensure training is evidence-based and culturally and linguistically appropriate, and build sustainable local programs. The bill also requires annual program evaluation and reporting to Congress and a final report with recommendations.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.