Combating Autism Act Now Goes to President Bush

The US Combating Autism Act has been passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate and now requires signature by US President George W. Bush. President Bush has been very reluctant to veto legislation presented to him for signature having issued his first veto after 5 1/2 years in the White House. That veto was cast rejecting a bill that would have overturned his policy limiting federal funding for embryonic stem cell research. Hopefully President Bush will not use his veto power again on the Combating Autism Act. That legislation will directly benefit autistic persons in the United States by increasing funding for screening, education, early intervention and prompt referrals for treatment and services. It would also indirectly benefit autistic persons outside the US by substantially increasing funding for autism research. President Bush is undoubtedly a busy man but hopefully he can get the CAA signed quickly.