Parents React to New Federal Autism Recommendations and Policy Announcements

On September 29, 2025, significant discussions emerged regarding the federal government's recent initiatives on autism, highlighting both new research funding and controversial health advisories. Parents of children with autism expressed skepticism and concern over these developments.

Rose Baumann, a mother from Cecil, Pennsylvania, describes her son Collin as profoundly autistic. Despite his need for intensive care, she struggles to find suitable day programs or residential facilities in her area. When she watched the federal press conference announcing $50 million in autism research funding, a warning label on acetaminophen (Tylenol), and accelerated approval for leucovorin—a drug potentially improving speech in some children with autism—she felt their concerns were dismissed.

During the event, President Donald Trump issued a strong warning against the use of Tylenol during pregnancy, stating, "Don't take Tylenol. Fight like hell not to take it," which alarmed many pregnant women and health experts. This reaction is especially concerning given that other pain relievers like ibuprofen and aspirin are not recommended during pregnancy, and the advice to avoid Tylenol contradicts established medical guidelines. Dr. Devon Ramaeker, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, emphasized that pregnant women should consult their healthcare providers before making medication decisions.

The warnings were based on studies that found correlations between prenatal Tylenol exposure and autism diagnoses. However, experts clarify that correlation does not imply causation, noting that underlying conditions prompting Tylenol use could be contributing factors. The consensus from medical groups remains that treating fevers with Tylenol during pregnancy is necessary, particularly because fever itself poses risks of birth defects, especially in the first trimester.

In addition to health recommendations, the president questioned current vaccination schedules, suggesting they should be spaced out more, fueling long-standing anti-vaccine sentiments with the claim that vaccines cause autism. Experts from organizations like Johns Hopkins dismissed these claims as misinformation, affirming that vaccine schedules are carefully calibrated for effective protection.

Many in the autism community appreciated the increased attention from the federal government. Jesse Torisky, president of Autism Pittsburgh, praised the focus on autism research and advocacy, recalling the organization's long history dating back to 1966, when his brother was diagnosed. Advocates like Torisky and Bieltz of Mt. Lebanon emphasize the need for more federal support for social services, respite care, and transition programs for young adults.

Bieltz, mother of Mira who was diagnosed with autism at age 8, expressed concern over the framing of autism as a crisis and stressed that autism is a spectrum that encompasses diverse experiences. She advocates for increased understanding, support, and resources for families rather than viewing autism solely as a problem to be solved.

Overall, while the federal initiatives aim to address autism through research and awareness, many community members and healthcare professionals highlight the importance of compassionate support, accurate information, and evidence-based policies to truly benefit individuals with autism and their families.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-parents-kids-autism-federal.html