NCL statement on the executive order establishing the president’s make America healthy again commission

Media Contact: Lisa McDonald, Vice President of Communications, 202-207-2829

Washington, DC – The National Consumers League (NCL) acknowledges the intention behind the establishment of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission and supports efforts to address the growing concerns around chronic disease in America, particularly those impacting our children. We look forward to collaborating with the Commission to ensure that its findings and recommendations are rooted in rigorous, evidence-based science that reflects modern-day understanding and research.

NCL has significant concerns about certain aspects of the Executive Order (EO), particularly regarding the language used to describe conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The EO implies that these conditions are “diseases” in need of curing, which is a troubling and misleading characterization. It is critical to recognize that ASD and ADHD are not diseases but neurodevelopmental conditions that reflect the natural diversity of human experience. The increasing diagnoses of these conditions are a result of better understanding, especially regarding how they manifest in underrepresented populations such as women and people of color. Research has shown that earlier recognition and more accurate diagnostic criteria contribute to the rise in diagnoses, which should be seen as a step forward in providing appropriate support, not a societal crisis.

Additionally, NCL is concerned about the recent reports of over 5,000 federal employees being terminated from public health sectors and agencies. The lack of personnel and resources in these vital sectors threatens the effectiveness of our national health initiatives. It will significantly hinder the Commission’s ability to thoroughly investigate and address the complex health issues outlined in the EO. A robust, well-funded workforce is essential for producing meaningful, actionable findings that will benefit all Americans, and NCL urges the administration to prioritize the restoration of these critical positions.

“We applaud the intention behind the Make America Healthy Again Commission and look forward to working together to improve the health of all Americans,” said NCL CEO Sally Greenberg. “However, it is vital that the Commission’s findings are based on rigorous, science-backed research that considers the complexities of conditions like ASD and ADHD and does not frame them as issues to be ‘cured.’ It is crucial that we acknowledge the advances in understanding these conditions rather than perpetuate outdated and harmful narratives.”

We encourage the MAHA Commission to ensure its work is guided by the most up-to-date, peer-reviewed scientific evidence and to adopt policies that support, rather than stigmatize, individuals with disabilities and chronic conditions. Only through such an approach can we make real progress in improving public health while respecting the rights and dignity of all individuals.

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About the National Consumers League (NCL)

The National Consumers League, founded in 1899, is America’s pioneer consumer organization. Our mission is to protect and promote social and economic justice for consumers and workers in the United States and abroad. For more information, visit www.nclnet.org.