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.

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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. 

Learn more about our priorities.

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 
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

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
How to cope with disrupted family routines during COVID-19
5.5.20

Statement on National Emergency Educational Waivers related to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

Autism Speaks is grateful that the Department heeded the call from advocates and families across the country and refrained from recommending the
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
4.17.20

Autism Speaks applauds leadership of Reps. Mike Doyle and Chris Smith to advance autism priorities in future COVID-19 legislation
On Wednesday, April 15, Reps. Smith and Doyle sent a letter to congressional leaders urging them to include additional supports for people with autism
How to cope with disrupted personal routines during COVID-19
4.3.20

Recently Passed COVID-19 Congressional Legislation and Ongoing Advocacy Efforts 

Congress has passed several bills to address the COVID-19 pandemic. While the recently passed bills provide significant assistance, much more needs to
ambulance
3.31.20

HHS Office for Civil Rights affirms rights of persons with disabilities during COVID-19 emergency
OCR issued a bulletin affirming the right of persons with disabilities to receive needed medical care during the COVID-19 emergency
mother holding her toddler aged daughter with autism
3.30.20

Autism Speaks comment submitted encouraging the Department of Labor to provide paid sick leave for family caregivers impacted by COVID-19
The following regulatory comment was submitted by Autism Speaks on March 29, 2020. Autism Speaks strongly urges the Department to provide
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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.