Advocate

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

Join our Grassroots Advocacy Network

Members of our advocacy network play a key role in educating other community members on policy issues and ways to support positive change. This group of volunteers works to effectively communicate with elected officials, raise awareness for autism policy issues on social media, contribute to local events and engage new volunteers.

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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 2021 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.

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Advocacy News

Oregon state flag
7.19.21

Oregon renews autism insurance law
The state legislature has passed a bill reauthorizing Oregon's Autism Health Insurance Reform law through January 2, 2030.
A school classroom full of students sitting at their desks with the teacher at the front of the class.
7.7.21

Ohio Autism Scholarship receives increased funding
An Autism Speaks-supported initiative to increase the annual amount of the Ohio Autism Scholarship was included in the newly-approved Ohio state
Nebraska State Seal
6.4.21

Nebraska lowers age for start of transition services
Governor Ricketts has signed into law a bill that lowers the age at which transition to adulthood planning must begin for students with developmental
Capitol Dome
5.21.21

Record number of U.S. House Members call for increase in autism research funding
Co-led by the Chairs of the Congressional Autism Caucus, the letter to leaders of the House Appropriations Committee on the need for increased
North Carolina bill signing ceremony
5.19.21

New law will improve access to an evidence-based autism therapy in North Carolina
On May 17, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper signed into law a bill that will help people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the state more easily
Three American flags with buttons of flags and the word "vote"
4.29.21

Help us improve the autistic voting experience
Voting is one of our nation’s most fundamental rights and a hallmark of our democracy. We’re interested in learning more about the voting experiences
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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.