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Help pass the Autism CARES Act of 2024

The Autism CARES Act has been the single most important driver of federal autism programs over the past two decades, transforming our understanding of autism and the landscape of services for people with autism.

Ensure this work continues by taking action today!

Advocate

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

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 

Autism Speaks Advocacy priorities

See our Advocacy priorities

Advocacy News

California state flag next to capitol dome
10.3.24

Legislative wins in California strengthen supports, opportunities and safety of autistic individuals
Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed several bills that Autism Speaks supported, which will strengthen supports for autistic students and help
United States Capitol building
10.1.24

Short-term extension protects federal autism programs
With widespread bipartisan agreement that the programs under the Autism CARES Act should continue, an extension of funding through December 20 was
one male and three female advocates standing on the steps of the US Capitol with building dome in the background
9.18.24

Securing the Future: The Autism CARES Act of 2024 passes in the U.S. House of Representatives

Autism Speaks celebrates a critical step in advancing and expanding the only comprehensive law focused on the autism community.
Disability Scoop logo
9.17.24

Disability Scoop spotlights Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act
"This is an important designation because it targets contradictory guidelines from certain states or other authorities that have been used to deny
two sheets of paper; top one is a title page saying "Health Insurance Benefits" and is covering most of the second paper which is a Health Insurance Claim Form
9.9.24

White House announces new rules to improve access to mental health care services under private health plans
New regulation, supported by Autism Speaks, strengthens parity protections and improves access and affordability of autism care for individuals with
Three American flags with buttons of flags and the word "vote"
8.22.24

Help us improve the autistic voting experience
Voting is the nation’s most fundamental right and a hallmark of democracy. Learn more about the voting experiences and needs of those with asd here.
Read more Advocacy News
Group of advocates standing on the steps of the Capitol

Join our Grassroots Advocacy Network

Become part of a community of advocates who raise awareness for autism policy issues, communicate with elected officials, contribute to local events, engage other volunteers, and support positive change.

Join Now

Take action

Meet the advocates making a difference across the country

Juan and Guarionex sitting next to each other outside
Juan D., a proud father inspired by his son's ambition
Autism is not a one-size situation. This affects everyone regardless of status, race, and political party.
Read Juan D., a proud father inspired by his son's ambition's Story
Cidmarie and a child smiling
Cidmarie V., following a lifelong calling to support students with autism and other disabilities
We must understand that the world is filled with people from all walks of life, with different abilities, and different ethnicities for a reason and that is so that we can learn from one another.
Read Cidmarie V., following a lifelong calling to support students with autism and other disabilities's Story
Kimacka and family at a Black Autism Support event
Kimacka R., empowering Black autism communities to break down barriers
My hope is that they are given the opportunity to be great, are surrounded by real friends, and never question that they are amazing and that they matter.
Read Kimacka R., empowering Black autism communities to break down barriers's Story
Bin and Vincent Feng sitting next to each other outside
Bin F., a leader and champion for the Chinese-American autism community
We all share the same goal: let our loved ones with autism live their full potentials.
Read Bin F., a leader and champion for the Chinese-American autism community's Story
Saida M standing on Capitol steps at 2023 Advocacy Forum in DC
Saida M., an advocate helping the next generation of girls growing up on the autism spectrum
I want to also be remembered for being the voice for those who are voiceless 
Read Saida M., an advocate helping the next generation of girls growing up on the autism spectrum's Story
A mom and a son smile at the camera in blue autism shirts on a sunny day
Elizabeth
I feel like I have a responsibility to help people with autism and their families to try to make the world a better place.”
Read Elizabeth 's Story
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