FASD United has released an updated resource to support your advocacy and outreach to your two Senators. The new Background & Rationale for Section 104 of the SUPPORT Reauthorization Act (H.R. 2483) replaces the earlier version developed for the FASD Respect Act (S.139). This updated document reflects changes to appropriations, language around Centers for Excellence, and other key differences between the original FASD Respect Act and the version included in the House-passed SUPPORT Reauthorization Act.
What’s New?
The FASD Respect Act (S.139) remains the foundational legislation for FASD prevention and support. However, the version of the bill included in the SUPPORT Reauthorization Act reflects important updates and structural changes made during the legislative process. Key differences include:
Revised Funding Structure
- While S.139 authorizes “such sums as necessary” from 2025 through 2029, the SUPPORT Act specifies $12.5 million per year from FY2026 through FY2030 for FASD programs under both sections.
Center for Excellence vs. Grant Funding
- Unlike the standalone FASD Respect Act, which explicitly authorizes the establishment of FASD Centers for Excellence in Section 399I, the House-passed SUPPORT Act instead authorizes grant funding for entities with demonstrated FASD expertise to perform similar functions (training, technical assistance, and serving as a clearinghouse for resources) without using the “Center for Excellence” designation.
Expanded Technical Assistance and Training
- Section 399I in the SUPPORT Act places additional emphasis on technical assistance to states and Tribes, the development of culturally informed practices, and professional training for those working in areas such as health care, education, and social services.
Clear Definition of “FASD-Informed”
- The updated language introduces a formal definition of “FASD-informed” services and supports, a necessary step toward establishing national consistency in program design and delivery.
How to Use it and Why it Matters
The FASD Respect Act, along with the related provisions in the SUPPORT Reauthorization Act, lays the groundwork for long-overdue changes in how systems of care respond to FASD. For those changes to take hold, we need to continue educating Senators about the need to address FASD at the federal level.
The updated Background & Rationale is a clear, concise summary of both the challenges and the response. We encourage advocates to use it when preparing for meetings or communicating with Senate offices. It is especially helpful as a leave-behind or as an attachment when emailing staff.
