Washington, D.C. – July 18, 2008 – U.S. Representatives Mike Doyle (PA-14), Chris Smith (NJ-4), today criticized syndicated talk show host Michael Savage for his recent comments disparaging families with autistic children and questioning cases of autism spectrum disorders as frauds.

“The medical evidence that autism is a real neurological condition is overwhelming and unequivocal,” Congressman Doyle said this morning. “That’s why it’s so disturbing that Michael Savage would make such an uninformed statement about autism as he did.”

“This gives us an opportunity to educate and inform the public that autism is the nation’s fastest growing developmental disability and is reaching epidemic proportions in the U.S. Now is a time for steadfast commitment to advance treatments and services for this growing disability,” said Rep. Chris Smith.

One out of every 150 children in the United States has an autism spectrum disorder. The range and severity of symptoms of autism vary from case to case, but symptoms often include difficulties in communicating and interacting with other individuals and exhibiting repetitive behaviors and intense interests in specific subjects. The care involved in treating these symptoms often requires hours of intensive therapy every week - regimens that are often inaccessible or unaffordable for many families. With early intervention and concentrated treatment, the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder can be mitigated, enabling individuals with autism and their families to participate fully in their communities.

“After years of inadequate funding, the advocacy of the congressional autism caucus and many non-profits has helped to realize more than a 5 fold jump in autism funding over the past 10 years. We need to continue with this momentum, and these unfortunate comments do nothing to help the lives of those suffering with this often debilitating disorder,” Rep. Chris Smith said.

“I understand that shock jocks get the big bucks for being as obnoxious and controversial as possible – but there’s no reason we have to stand idly by and let him boost his market share at the expense of families who are dealing with a heartbreaking and financially draining health issue,” Congressman Doyle said.

“Those of us who know more about autism than Michael Savage have a responsibility to call him out on this issue,” Congressman Doyle added. “If I were a radio station that broadcast his show or a company that sponsored it, I’d certainly reconsider my association with it, and if I were a parent of an autistic child, I’d certainly demand that.”