1 in 41 children in New Jersey, and 1 in 68 children nationally, are on the autism spectrum. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities are in almost every school and community, however a lack of understanding of autism can often lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation for individuals with ASD and their families, and all too often, intimidation and bullying.

     Knowing this, today the co-Chair of the bipartisan Coalition for Autism Research and Education, Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04), joined with others on Capitol Hill in support of the “Sesame Street and Autism” program, which includes a new Muppet named Julia—who has autism. Julia is the first new character on Sesame Street in over a decade and will be making her first appearance on the show airing Monday, April 10. The program, a nationwide initiative aimed at communities with children ages 2 to 5, will help families manage common challenges, simplify everyday activities and grow connections and support from family, friends and community.

     “Raising awareness for autism, like Sesame Street is doing with the introduction of Julia, is an effective means to increase acceptance and prevent tragedies such as the recent incidences of bullying autistic youth and young adults,” said Smith. “The sensitivity and inclusion taught by Sesame Workshop’s initiative will not only reach these kids, but help teach their parents, friends and extended family.”

     According to a recent study by Georgetown University Medical Center, children who are on the autism spectrum are five times more likely to be bullied than others.

     Julia was first introduced to Congress at a briefing held by Smith in October 2015 entitled “Best Practices for Early Intervention for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.” The first show to include her will be broadcast by PBS.

     Smith’s most recent autism legislation, the 2014 Autism CARES Act (PL 113-157), authorizes $1.3 billion in autism research over five years, including $22 million annually for the Developmental Disabilities Surveillance and Research Program; $48 million annually for Autism Education, Early Detection, and Intervention, and; $190 million annually for hundreds of Research Grants at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and for the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee. Smith’s law also tasks federal agencies with undertaking a comprehensive review of current federal policies and programs impacting students with disabilities as they transition into adulthood.

     Smith has also authored the 2011 Combating Autism Reauthorization Act, (Public Law 112-32), which is built on by the Autism CARES Act (PL 113-157).

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