Election 2006: Implications for Autism

[Guest guest]

Election 2006: Implications for Autism ASA's Efforts to Pass Combating Autism Act Continue Election Day 2006 brought a round of changes at all levels of government, as Democrats won control of the House of Representatives and possibly the U.S. Senate (AP and CNN are reporting today that Webb has won the VA Senate seat), 28 Governor's mansions, full control of 23 state legislatures and partial control of 10 state legislatures. This Democratic wave has broad implications for many health issues, including autism, as Democrats have made health care a centerpiece of their agenda. In the early days of the 110th Congress, the Congress will likely consider legislation related to the reimportation of prescription drugs from Canada, allowing the federal government to negotiate for lower drug costs and efforts to fill the Medicare Part D doughnut hole. With regard to autism,

Democrats may try to increase funding for biomedical research, public health programs and education programs. That said, Democrats will be challenged to translate campaign promises into legislative realities. Despite Democratic victories in the House, the margins to enact legislation are very thin. Furthermore, Senate rules requiring a 60 vote majority for most legislative initiatives ensure that health care reforms will have to be bipartisan measures. While it is difficult to predict the direct impact this will have on autism, ASA will be sure to work with members of Congress on both sides of the aisle to continue to build support for autism related issues.

Shane M.D.

"Light travels faster than sound, this is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak..."

Yesterday is history, tomorrow a mystery, today is a gift hence it is called the present.

*None of us is as smart as all of us*

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