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.

Learn More

Advocacy News

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
covid-19 virus
3.24.20

Priorities for the Autism Community During this Time of Crisis
To address the effects of COIVD-19 on individuals and families, we are advocating for policymakers to quickly provide assistance to individuals on the
2019 Advocacy Highlights
12.30.19

Autism Speaks 2019 Advocacy Highlights
With your support, we've pursued policy solutions for individuals across the spectrum and throughout the lifespan in 2019.
Dome of US Capitol
12.27.19

FY20 Federal budget strengthens support for autism
On December 20, 2019, two appropriations "minibuses" were enacted, including wins for autism research and services.
Read More

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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.