As a parent living the real challenges of raising a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in our current system, I know firsthand how crucial passing House Bill 2184 is. My son, like many children across our state, grapples with day-to-day tasks, behavioral issues, and speech delays. As such, he requires an overwhelming amount of care - from various weekly therapies to daily hands-on attention.

Unfortunately, we - like many families - are struggling. Without the support of respite care or daycare, we shoulder this massive responsibility alone. This leaves us grappling with a crushing double burden: the emotional strain of full-time caregiving and the financial strain of lost income potential.

Every single day, countless families are forced into a similarly heart-wrenching dilemma, trying their best to provide care for their children but always fearing they aren't doing enough. House Bill 2184 has the power to change this, enabling parents to receive payment as caregivers for their disabled children.

The financial relief this bill can provide is not mere luxury, but a necessity. It would allow parents more time with their children, leading to improved care and less emotional stress. Plus, it would hugely alleviate the financial strain so many families face, helping us all lead better lives.

Quick Facts:

“The lifetime cost of supporting an individual with autism can be as high as $2.4 million.
In the U.S., the annual cost of autism is estimated to be between $236 billion and $262 billion.
Families with children who have ASD experience higher out-of-pocket medical expenses, spending nearly four times more on healthcare than families without a child with autism.
According to a study published in JAMA Pediatrics, families with children who have ASD also face higher non-medical costs, such as therapy and special education services, which can add up to tens of thousands of dollars per year.
The financial burden of caring for individuals with autism often falls on parents or other family members. In fact, one study found that mothers of children with ASD earn 35% less on average than mothers of children without disabilities.
Society also bears a significant portion of the financial burden associated with autism. For example, the cost of special education services for children with ASD in the U.S. is estimated to be around $12 billion per year.” https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/autism-statistics

It's time our system recognized caregiving as the full-time job it is. Join us in petitioning the local Government to pass House Bill 2184 – for the sake of our children, their caregivers, and families state-wide. Please sign this petition today.