The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) initially announced plans to collect health data for autism research, sparking outrage from the autism community. HHS later reversed course, stating they would not create an autism registry as previously suggested by NIH Director Dr. Bhattacharya. While this is positive, concerns remain about data collection practices and the lack of communication with the autism community. The community is demanding transparency and accountability regarding data usage and protection, citing distrust in the administration's handling of autism-related issues and past actions.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.