Havertown, PA – Today at the Child Guidance Resource Center in Havertown, U.S. Rep. Patrick Meehan (PA-07) held a roundtable discussion with local advocates and service organizations on the rising rates in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Meehan briefed attendees on what he learned at a recent Oversight and Government Reform Committee hearing examining the federal response to the rising rates of ASD. Watch video clips of Rep. Meehan’s questioning here: Part Iand Part II.

“After our recent Congressional hearing on this issue, I remain concerned that our national approach to addressing the rising rates of autism is lacking,” said Meehan. “With 1 in 88 children diagnosed with ASD, we must ensure that we are providing the necessary care and services for these children and their families. Today we heard from some local advocates and service organizations that are on the front lines working with those touched by this issue every day.”

Joining Meehan today were representatives from the Autism Society of America (Philadelphia Chapter), Autism Speaks (Greater Delaware Valley), Center for Autism Research, Melmark, KenCrest Centers, Devereux, Delaware County Arc, Chester County Arc, Delaware County Intermediate Unit, the Chester County Intermediate Unit, and the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit.

“We are thrilled to see Rep. Meehan respond to the concerns voiced by so many at the recent hearing about the autism epidemic we are facing in the United States and abroad,” said Christina Carty, Executive Director of the Greater Delaware Valley Chapter of Autism Speaks. “Rep. Meehan clearly grasps the human element of this crisis, and the frustration so many individuals and their families living with autism feel each day. His commitment to his constituents and to all those impacted by autism is extremely encouraging and we look forward to working with Rep. Meehan and his colleagues in Congress to help solve many of the challenges presented by autism.”

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