Education & Students with Disabilities
- Significant Cuts to Autism Research Funding: Despite public commitments to prioritize autism research, the Trump administration has enacted substantial funding cuts across multiple agencies. The Department of Education, Department of Defense, National Science Foundation, and National Institutes of Health have all reduced or eliminated funding for various autism-related programs, particularly those emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion. These actions have stalled research progress and affected future academic plans for autism researchers and students.
Source: time.com - Proposed Shift of Special Education Oversight: President Trump announced plans to transfer oversight of services for students with disabilities from the Department of Education to the Department of Health and Human Services. Critics argue this move could undermine the enforcement of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and negatively impact the education of 7.5 million students with disabilities.
Source: chalkbeat.org
LGBTQIA+ Rights
- Executive Order 14187: President Trump’s order aims to restrict gender-affirming care for minors. Federal courts have issued injunctions blocking its enforcement in several states, citing constitutional concerns.
Source: vox.com
HIV/AIDS & Public Health
- CDC Funding Cuts: The Trump administration’s budget proposes significant cuts to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, potentially reducing its discretionary budget by over 40%. This could impact programs targeting HIV/AIDS, autism, and other public health initiatives.
Source: axios.com
SSI, Disability, Medicare/Medicaid
- Medicaid Eligibility Changes: The administration is considering repealing eligibility and enrollment rules for Medicaid, allowing states to implement more frequent eligibility checks and in-person documentation requirements, potentially affecting beneficiaries’ access to services.
Source: youthtoday.org
