HHS Resets National Autism Panel with 21 New Members

HHS Secretary Kennedy has appointed 21 new members to the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee, resetting federal research and services policy.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), under Secretary Kennedy, has reconstituted the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) with a completely new lineup of 21 members. This move resets the primary federal advisory body responsible for coordinating all autism spectrum disorder research and services across agencies like the NIH and CDC. The committee now includes a fresh panel of scientists, physicians, self-advocates, and family members who will guide national strategy.

The appointment of an entirely new slate allows the administration to align the committee's priorities with its public health objectives. The IACC is mandated to update the Strategic Plan for Autism Research, which sets funding priorities and goals. This reset is expected to influence the direction of millions in federal research grants and the implementation of federal support services.

"This new committee reflects a commitment to advancing the science of autism with diverse perspectives at the table," said an HHS spokesperson. A newly appointed self-advocate member stated, "Including the voices of autistic adults is crucial for shaping policies that affect our lives directly. This reset is an opportunity for more meaningful inclusion."

The IACC's guidance significantly impacts federal funding and policy related to autism causes, early detection, interventions, and services across the lifespan. This administrative action follows criticism that previous committees were slow to incorporate emerging science and the perspectives of the autistic community in their deliberations.

The newly formed committee will hold its first public meeting in the coming months to begin its work on the next strategic plan. HHS indicated that the committee's preliminary recommendations on research priorities and policy coordination are expected within the year.