Following an announcement on Thursday that autism spectrum disorder has become more prevalent, Rep. Ander Crenshaw (R-Fla.) called for support of the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that one in every 68 children have been identified as having autism spectrum disorder, a 30 percent increase from a 2012 CDC estimate.
“The increase in the prevalence of autism in children announced by the CDC further underscores the need for Congress to take up and pass the ABLE Act to provide individuals with disabilities with the financial planning tools they need and deserve,” Crenshaw, the chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government, said.
The ABLE Act would allow individuals with disabilities to access tax-advantaged savings accounts.
“Those living with autism, Down syndrome and other disabilities face enormous financial difficulties, yet they cannot benefit from the same IRS-sanctioned tools that other Americans enjoy to use in planning for their future,” Crenshaw said. “ABLE opens the door for them to live their lives to their highest potential by making tax-free savings accounts available to cover qualified expenses in areas such as education, housing, medical and transportation.”
Crenshaw introduced a House version of the ABLE Act last year.
“ABLE is about leveling the playing field for all those who live with disabilities, and the time is now to turn this legislation into law,” Crenshaw said.