Healthcare and Medical News: Urgent: We must act now.

Dear Hcis,

I’m writing to you not only as the Chair of the Autism Society’s Board of Directors, but as someone who has lived this—as a mother, as an advocate, and as part of a community where many rely on Medicaid to survive.

Today, that lifeline is under direct threat.

Congress is advancing a federal reconciliation budget bill that proposes over $800 billion in cuts to Medicaid, a program that makes it possible for Autistic individuals and their families to access health care, medications, home supports, and services that are essential for many.

This is not theoretical. These cuts would have a devastating and immediate impact.

According to the Congressional Budget Office, these cuts would result in approximately 7.8 million individuals losing Medicaid coverage over the next 10 years. In addition, 3.5 million individuals would lose health insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) as a result of proposals in the bill.

Allie, a parent in Ohio, shared, “Losing the Medicaid waiver would cause my Autistic adult children to regress rapidly. Loss of day services, therapy, and medication would lead to more ER visits, that we can’t afford. I’m physically and emotionally exhausted as their caregiver. Even now, it’s already hard to access care. The waiver paid for by Medicaid is a literal lifeline for people with disabilities and those who care for them.”

The Senate could vote any day. And when they do, millions of people could lose the services that make independence and dignity possible.

We are mobilizing every affiliate, every advocate, and every policymaker we can reach. But we need your support to keep going.

Hcis, will you donate today to help us defend Medicaid and protect our community?

The Autism Society has been working on the frontlines of disability rights for over 60 years—guided by people with lived experience and committed to building inclusive systems that serve everyone across our diverse community.

When federal systems fail, non-profits pick up the slack – and we cannot do it without you.

Please stand with us. Your support helps defend access, protect Medicaid, and ensure no one is left behind. Make a gift today to power our advocacy and amplify the voices of those who need it most.

We’re deeply grateful for your consideration—your generosity fuels our work every day.

With Gratitude,