Stories from September 2011
Obama Signs Autism Act
President Barack Obama signed a three-year extension of the Combating Autism Act Friday, the very day the law -- and many of the programs it established -- was set to expire.
TV Characters With Disabilities Few And Far Between
Less than 1 percent of characters on primetime network television have disabilities and their numbers are on the decline, a new report indicates.
Guide Looks To Help Parents Tackling Challenging Behavior
A new guide out this week aims to help parents as they contemplate medicating their kids to address challenging behaviors often associated with autism.
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States To Get Millions To Boost Disability Employment
The federal government is sending more than $21 million to a number of states to address the specific needs of people with disabilities who are looking for work.
Study Predicts Coming Shortage Of Special Educators
As the need for special educators continues to rise, there is a severe shortage of PhDs in the field ready to train them, which could have a ripple effect on students with disabilities.
Autism Act Clears Senate After Last-Minute Deal
The U.S. Senate approved an extension of the country's primary autism legislation late Monday night after a group of Republicans agreed to lift a hold on the bill.
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Uncertainty Surrounds Autism Insurance Mandates
State requirements directing insurers to cover autism therapy could be in jeopardy as federal officials set new national standards for health coverage.
FDA Panel Concerned About Kids On Antipsychotics
A panel of pediatric experts is calling on government regulators to further study the impact of antipsychotic drugs on children and improve labeling of the medications.
Obama Demands High Bar For Students With Disabilities
The Obama administration will offer waivers to exempt states from some education requirements, so long as they agree to hold students -- including those with disabilities -- to high standards.
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Interactive Tool Aims To Challenge Disability Employment Skeptics
In an effort to combat employer misconceptions, a new online tool is offering an estimate of the costs -- and financial benefits -- involved in hiring people with disabilities.
Down Syndrome Study Finds Families Are Happy
Having a child with Down syndrome may come as a surprise, but it's a good experience, families are reporting in a trio of new surveys.
Senate Republicans Move To Derail Autism Act
The U.S. House of Representatives approved an extension of major autism legislation Tuesday evening, but the bill's future remains unclear.