In 2025, federal funding for autism research has dropped sharply, affecting many who depend on it. The National Institutes of Health saw a cut of around $31 million, which is nearly one quarter of its budget for autism research. Other departments, like education and defense, have similarly tightened their belts. These cuts are about more than dollars. They impact autistic people, their families, and the people who support them every day.
What These Cuts Look Like on the Ground
Research projects have been paused or stopped. For example, a university was forced to halt its studies on autism in girls and women. These groups have not been studied enough, and the pause means gaps in knowledge are growing.
Dr. Amara Jordan, an autism researcher, told Spectrum Astrolabe that cutting funding is like taking pieces away from a puzzle that is nearly finished. She focused on how mental health and gender diversity research within autism are crucial but have been especially hit hard.
Therapy and support services are also shrinking. Families, especially those in rural or low-income areas, are losing hours of needed therapy. Jennifer Luna, whose child is autistic, said, “Our therapist’s hours have been cut twice. It’s like watching progress slip away.”
Unequal Effects Within the Autism Community
Cuts haven’t hit all research equally. Studies on genetics and the environment still get some money, but research exploring neurodiversity, cultural inclusion, and work by autistic-led groups are losing funding. This narrows what we know and where research heads.
Fewer training opportunities for teachers and therapists means there might soon be fewer skilled professionals. This could make it harder for autistic people to find the help they need, especially in underserved areas.
What Families Can Do Now
Even with these setbacks, there are concrete steps families and advocates can take. Staying informed is key. Groups like the Autistic Self Advocacy Network and Autism Speaks offer updates and ways to get involved.
Here are some steps to consider:
- Call or write to your representatives and share your story. Personal voices matter. Advocacy groups can help with scripts and pointers.
- Connect with local and national advocacy groups. They can make your voice part of a larger push for change.
- Look for local service providers and nonprofits that may still have resources despite federal cuts.
- Join support groups to share experiences and advice with others in similar situations.
Samantha Lee, an autism advocate in California, said, “When families unite, our power grows. Lawmakers listen when many speak together. Advocacy is about building strength through community.”
Moving Forward
We stand at a crossroads. These funding cuts risk slowing advances in autism understanding and support. But with awareness and action, there is hope. Together, we can work toward restoring funding that honors the varied experiences of autistic people.
Families, scientists, and advocates have shown that united voices can protect vital programs. This is a moment to raise our voices clearly and with hope.
Sources
- TIME. (2025, April 22). Trump administration cuts funding for autism research. https://time.com/7279068/trump-administration-autism-research-cuts/
- Reuters. (2025, May 16). Trump administration cut autism-related research by 26% so far. https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/trump-administration-cut-autism-related-research-by-26-so-far-2025-2025-05-16/
- Spectrum Astrolabe. (2025, March 13). Education Department cuts threaten disability protections. https://www.spectrumastrolabe.org/2025/03/13/education-department-cuts-threaten-disability-protections/
- The Transmitter. (2025, April 29). Federal funding cuts imperil next generation of autism researchers. https://www.thetransmitter.org/spectrum/federal-funding-cuts-imperil-next-generation-of-autism-researchers/
- Charlotte Autism. (2025, July 17). Amidst federal funding uncertainty, Charlotte autism nonprofit looks to philanthropy. https://givingcompass.org/article/amidst-federal-funding-uncertainty-charlotte-autism-nonprofit-looks-to-philanthropy
- Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). (2025, June 24). Speak out now to save protection & advocacy agencies! https://autisticadvocacy.org/2025/06/speak-out-now-to-save-protection-advocacy-agencies/
