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Trump signs 'Autism CARES Act' into law, which provides $1.8B in funding for autism research

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WASHINGTON — The "Autism CARES Act" was signed into law on Monday by President Donald Trump.

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Chris Smith and Rep. Mike Doyle, will provide $1.8 billion in funding for autism programs at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institutes of Health and Resources and services administrations.

According to the CDC, roughly one in 59 children have been identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder and it's about four times more common among boys than girls.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges.

The "Autism CARES Act" will fund research, early detection programs and autism treatment.

This story was originally published by Katie Cox at WRTV.