Texas health agency proposes eliminating children's autism program

Who's involved

• Texas Health and Human Services CommissionState agency that proposed eliminating program funding
• Gov. Greg AbbottGovernor who directed 3% spending cuts
• Lt. Gov. Dan PatrickLieutenant Governor who directed 3% spending cuts
• House Speaker Dustin BurrowsSpeaker who directed 3% spending cuts
• Elizabeth SolisParent of two autistic children receiving program services
• Jacquie BenestanteExecutive director of the Autism Society of Texas

The facts

• Children's Autism Program contracts with 16 providers to provide ABA therapy to autistic children at reduced cost based on family income.^{1 3 4 5} Stated by 4 sources
• Children are eligible for up to 720 hours of ABA therapy over their lifetime.^{1 3 4 5} Stated by 4 sources
• Program started in 2008.^{1 3 4 5} Stated by 4 sources
• In fiscal year 2026, the program funded treatment for 583 children.^{1 3 4 5} Stated by 4 sources
• Contractors report at least 1,000 more children on waitlists statewide.^{1 3 4 5} Stated by 4 sources
• This year, the program expanded eligibility to age 21 and removed cap on yearly hours.^{1 3 4 5} Stated by 4 sources
• In July, Gov. Abbott, Lt. Gov. Patrick and Speaker Burrows directed state agencies to cut spending 3% in next biennium.^{1 3 4 5} Stated by 4 sources

Who said what

These are statements and claims made by the people involved. They are reported, not verified.

• Elizabeth Solis If program closes completely, you feel like everything is caving in and don't know where to get help.^{1 3 4 5}
• Jacquie Benestante Shocked to see nothing where the line item should be; used to fighting for funding, not having program slashed and canceled.^{1 3 4 5}