Advocate

Advocating for policies and programs in support of individuals and families with autism

Share your autism stories during COVID-19 with legislators

We are collecting stories on how COVID-19 impacts people with autism. Elected officials often ask for stories on why they should support specific policies. Your stories not only help persuade legislators to support certain legislation but can also be used by legislators to show why they are supportive. Your stories may be shared with elected officials in support of our policy priorities.

Act Now

Autism Speaks influences policy at the state and federal government levels. To do this, we work with Congress, the White House, state legislators, agencies, and regulators. 

Our advocacy protects the rights, services, and supports of people with autism. 

Autism Speaks Policy Areas 

We work on a range of policy issues that address the needs of people with autism. 

  • Science and Research 
  • Healthcare and Insurance 
  • Housing and Related Supports 
  • Education 
  • Employment 
  • Other Services 

See Our 2020 Priorities
Advocacy Ambassador Program

Become an Advocacy Ambassador

Build relationships with your legislators, and help us advance policies that affect people with autism and their families.

Learn More

Advocacy News

boy looking at laptop screen that shows a video conference presentation
10.19.20

Addressing barriers to behavioral health care services in California

Autism Speaks has expressed concern to the California Department of Health Care Services that some autistic students and their families are being
Sign that reads "VOTING DAY" with "I VOTED" stickers
9.25.20

#AutismVotes: Vote on Tuesday, November 3rd (or earlier, if you have the option!)
Make sure the autism community is heard in this year's election. Exercise your right to vote by registering to vote, planning when and how you will
Ohio state flag in shape of the state of Ohio
7.30.20

Ohio Dept. of Education proposes changes to school placement policies
ODE has proposed a change to the rule on “Procedural Safeguards regarding Change of Placement” that removes parental consent for change of placement.
President George H.W. Bush signing the American with Disabilities Act
7.23.20

Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act
Sunday, July 26, 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Now more than ever, delivering on the promise
Georgia Seal
7.8.20

Impact of Georgia’s FY21 budget on the autism community
Over the past month, the Georgia state legislature has reviewed the proposed budget, and autism advocates have played a critical role in making our
covid-19 virus
5.27.20

Autism Speaks urges adapted hospital policies to allow support providers for autistic and disabled people
For people with autism and significant communication or behavioral challenges, even a typical hospital stay can be an overwhelming experience. Today,
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You can also reach the Autism Response Team by phone or email: 888-288-4762, en Espanol 888-772-7050, or help@autismspeaks.org.