U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota have reintroduced the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Respect Act of 2025. This legislation aims to reauthorize programs and funding to assist individuals and families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.
"We made significant progress on this bill in the 118th Congress, and we were close to getting this legislation across the finish line. That momentum has only motivated Senator Klobuchar and I to work even harder to reauthorize this critical bill," said Senator Murkowski. "Preventing and mitigating the risks posed by FASD requires comprehensive education, support, and intervention programs. Ensuring communities have access to these resources has the potential to make a genuine difference in the lives of families across Alaska."
Senator Klobuchar highlighted that "Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders affects at least one in 20 people in the U.S., and too many lack access to diagnosis, treatment, and support services." She added that their bill will renew federal resources for evidence-based services needed by families.
Susan Shepard Carlson, FASD United Board Chair, noted her awareness of FASD from her past roles as Minnesota's First Lady and a Juvenile Court judicial officer. She emphasized that "our systems of care are failing this population by not recognizing and/or understanding their FASD complex needs." The act will focus on addressing these issues with much-needed resources.
Tom Donaldson, CEO of FASD United, praised Senators Murkowski and Klobuchar for creating a bill balancing research with public health benefits for those living with FASD.
The proposed act would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish or continue comprehensive programs related to prevention, identification, intervention, and service delivery for FASD. It includes educational initiatives for professionals involved in care systems, expanding diagnostic capacities, conducting research on FASD where appropriate, building state and tribal capacities for identifying and supporting individuals with FASD.
Additionally, it proposes establishing Centers for Excellence dedicated to preventing occurrences of FASD while responding effectively to affected individuals' needs through public awareness activities or acting as clearinghouses offering evidence-based resources regarding best practices across various systems caring about those impacted throughout their lifespan.
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