Texas Border Business
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28) has been honored with the 2025 Autism Advocacy Award, a national recognition for his leadership in advancing policies and securing funding to support individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. The award was presented during the Autism Worthy Gala Dinner hosted by the Autism Society of America, a leading national organization committed to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by autism through advocacy, education, and support. Congressman Cuellar received the award alongside U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján and U.S. Senator Susan Collins.
“I am deeply honored to receive the 2025 Autism Advocacy Award,” said Dr. Cuellar. “I appreciate the work of the Autism Society of America and congratulate them on six decades of transformative work. For individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, this work is not just policy—it’s a lifeline. We must continue building communities that include and empower everyone, regardless of how they think or communicate.”
As Co-Chair of the Congressional Autism Caucus, Dr. Cuellar has led bipartisan efforts to strengthen federal support for the autism community. Working alongside Congressman Chris Smith, he has championed policies that advance research, improve access to care, and expand services for individuals with autism across all stages of life.
A cornerstone of these efforts is the Autism CARES Act, which Dr. Cuellar helped pass and get signed into law. The legislation directs critical funding toward early diagnosis, effective interventions, workforce training, and lifelong support systems. Its continued renewal underscores the federal government’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the autism community.
