Autism Family Caregivers Act of 2025

This bill would create a national pilot program to fund free, research‑backed training for family caregivers of young children with autism or other developmental disabilities or delays. The goal is to boost children’s skills and well‑being, help families cope, and support kids’ inclusion in everyday family and community life. Training would be offered in ways that fit local cultures and languages, with a focus on reaching underserved communities when possible .

Grants would go to local groups to provide no‑cost caregiver training in practical areas like communication, social engagement, daily living skills, responding to challenging behaviors, and caregiver self‑care. At least 25 organizations in at least 15 states would receive funding, with each grant totaling at least $500,000 over five years. Each community would form a local committee—including caregivers (including autistic caregivers), pediatric providers, educators, local organizations, and local officials—to make sure the training is accessible and appropriate. Programs must coordinate with schools, early‑intervention providers, Medicaid and other insurers, Head Start, and community groups, and grant funds cannot replace services covered by Medicaid or special education laws .

Key points

• Who is affected: Family caregivers who help a child age 0–9 with autism or another developmental disability or delay; local communities and service providers.
• What changes: Free caregiver skills training; local advisory committees; coordination with schools and health systems; yearly evaluations and sharing of best practices; funds supplement existing services, not replace them .
• When: The health agency must report on progress within six months of the first grant and deliver a final report by the end of fiscal year 2027; funding is authorized at $10 million each year from 2026 through 2030.