The fight against the epidemic of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and how governments can help individuals with autism function in society, especially in educational and workplace settings, will be the topic of a hearing to be held by Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-04) Thursday.

    “The Global Challenge of Autism” is the title of the hearing of the House global health subcommittee.

    “Autism is a growing health problem around the world,” said Chairman Smith.  “With the ever-rising cost of care, it is imperative that people with autism have the opportunity to learn skills and earn a living so that they can control their own lives as much as possible. Our hearing will present innovative strategies to achieve that goal.”
 
         Who:               Congressman Chris Smith, Chairman of the House’s global health  subcommittee and co-chair of the bipartisan Coalition on Autism Research and Education (CARE); other members of the subcommittee, and; witnesses: 

• Jose H. Velasco, Vice President of Product Management and Head of Autism at Work Initiative SAP

• Thorkil Sonne, Founder and Chairman, Specialisterne

• Theresa Hussman, Board Member, Autism Society

• Michael Rosanoff , Associate Director, Public Health Research, Autism Speaks

• Ron Suskind, Pulitzer Prize-winning author and autism advocate

  What:              “The Global Challenge of Autism”

  When:               Thursday, July 24 @ 2 p.m.                                              

  Where:            Room 2200 of the Rayburn House Office Building (second floor)

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