Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Autism Caucus, met with over 100 Autism Speaks advocates in Washington, D.C. on April 22 to discuss continued federal research funding for autism.
The meeting took place during the 2026 Autism Speaks Advocacy Forum & Capitol Hill Day, where participants highlighted the need for full implementation and funding of the Autism CARES Act of 2024. The act, authored by Smith and signed into law at the end of 2024, provides $1.95 billion for autism research and education.
In a statement following the event, Smith said, “Yesterday, I had the distinct pleasure of welcoming over 100 Autism Speaks advocates to Washington, D.C. for the 2026 Autism Speaks Advocacy Forum & Capitol Hill Day.” He also praised Keith Wargo, President and CEO of Autism Speaks and a constituent from Bay Head: “Autism Speaks President and CEO Keith Wargo, a constituent from Bay Head, is a critical leader in the autism advocacy community. His invaluable leadership has vastly improved the quality of life for all in the autism community.”
Smith added that many self-advocates and family members from New Jersey attended to share their experiences: “Joining him from New Jersey are many self- and family advocates, who have come to our Nation’s capital to share their stories and the stories of their loved ones.”
Smith is currently serving in Congress representing New Jersey’s 4th district after replacing Frank Thompson in 1981 according to the Biographical Directory. He has held this position since then as reported by the Office of Art & Archives. Born in Rahway in 1953, Smith is now aged 70 and lives in Manchester Township according to NJ.com. He graduated from The College of New Jersey with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1975 as reported by The College’s alumni profiles.
Advocates emphasized priorities such as ensuring robust support for ongoing research efforts through full enactment of recent legislation. The event underscored continuing engagement between lawmakers like Smith—who has authored five comprehensive autism laws—and advocacy groups working on behalf of individuals with autism.
