OPPOSITIONAL DEFIANT DISORDER: Urge Your Legislators to Support the ABLE Act!

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Urge Your Legislators to Support the ABLE Act!

The Autism Society of America is pleased to support the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act of 2009, ("ABLE" Act), S. 493/H.R. 1205. This legislation was recently introduced by Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Richard Burr (R-NC), Edward Kennedy (D-MA) and Sam Brownback (R-KS) in the Senate and the House companion bill was introduced by Reps. Ander Crenshaw (R-FL), Patrick Kennedy (D-RI), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and Kendrick Meek (D-FL). This critically important piece of legislation has the potential to help improve the lives of all affected by autism.

This legislation is designed to encourage individuals with autism (and other disabilities) and their families to save for disability-related expenses and will supplement, rather than to replace, benefits provided by other sources such as Medicaid and private health insurance coverage. The ABLE Act authorizes "ABLE Accounts," which are similar in many respects to existing Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA) and 529 college savings plans. Provided certain rules are met, these disability savings accounts will be exempt from federal taxation.

Families of individuals affected by autism often find themselves in a position of financial frustration. Our families want nothing but the best for our children and we are often faced with astronomical expenses in connection with providing appropriate services.

To help improve the lives of all affected by autism, simply take a moment and click here to send an email to Congress today.

The time for action is NOW! Urge your U.S. Senators and Representative to co-sponsor the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act of 2009, ("ABLE" Act), S. 493/H.R. 1205

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,
Lee Grossman
President & CEO
Autism Society of America

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