Advocacy is Critical

Current Action Items

RESPONSE TO RFK

On April 16, in hateful and willful ignorance of facts and in violation of the most basic human decency, HHS Secretary Kennedy tried to “other” everyone diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The Autism Society of Greater Akron cannot find words strong enough to condemn Secretary Kennedy’s remarks. All we can do is point out the facts.

Read the entire statement.

PROTECT IDEA AND THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

The U.S. Department of Education is facing serious threats that could impact all students, especially those with disabilities. Proposed Executive Orders, actions by Elon Musk and his DOGE team, and legislation in Congress could lead to the dismantling of the Department, which would have devastating consequences for our education system.

WHAT’S AT RISK

  • Support for students with disabilities
    • IEPs and 504 Plans
    • Assistive Technology
    • Behavioral Supports
    • Speech, OT & PT Services
    • Specialized Transportation
    • Training for Staff
  • Civil rights protections
  • Billions in special education funding
The Department of Education plays a critical role in ensuring that students with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) and that their civil rights are protected. We cannot afford to lose these protections.
Urge your U.S. Senators and Representatives and urge them to oppose all efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education.

PROTECT MEDICAID – URGE CONGRESS TO OPPOSE DEVASTATING CUTS!

Proposals to make drastic cuts to Medicaid funding are gaining momentum in Congress, threatening the health and well-being of millions of Americans, including children, seniors, and individuals with Autism and other disabilities.


WHAT’S AT RISK

  • Medical Care, Personal Care Assistance and Respite Care
  • Waivers to Live Independently
  • Job Training and Placement Assistance
  • Supported Employment Services
  • School Based Services like Therapies
Urge them to stand against Medicaid cuts and changes such as work requirements, and prioritize funding that protects individuals with Autism, disabilities, and low-income families. Share your personal story to make an impact.

TEXAS v. KENNEDY- STOP THE ATTACK ON SECTION 504

We’re facing an urgent fight for Section 504 — the law that protects people with disabilities from discrimination in schools, hospitals, workplaces, and more. 17 states are suing to get rid of it in a lawsuit called Texas v. Becerra. If they win, we lose essential civil rights.

What Do the 17 States Want?

17 states sued the United States government. They asked the court to get rid of Section 504. The states disagree with a few things in the updated Section 504 rules. But the lawsuit asks the court to get rid of all the updated rules – and to get rid of Section 504 itself, not just the rules they disagree with. The lawsuit says that Section 504 goes against the United States Constitution. The lawsuit says that no one should have to follow any part of Section 504. If the 17 states win, this would be a disaster for people with disabilities.

Update on the Lawsuit
February 21, 2025: Update on the Texas v. Becerra Lawsuit

Summary of the Lawsuit
Texas v. Becerra: What it is and How You Can Help Stop the Attack on Section 504 – DREDF

SECTION 504 of the REHABILITATION ACT Fact Sheet
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Part 84 Final Rule: Fact Sheet | HHS.gov

Disability Community Briefing: What You Can Do to Stop the Attack on Section 504
View Webinar

Your voice is important!

NOW is the time to contact your U.S. Senators and Representatives and urge them to take action on these issues that seriously impact the Autism community.  Call, email, and contact them on social media.

USE 5 CALLS APP

5 Calls is a platform designed to help U.S. constituents make a political impact by calling their elected officials about important issues. It provides scripts and contact information for representatives based on your location and the issues you care about.

  1. Choose an Issue: Start by selecting an issue you care about from the list provided on the platform.
  2. Enter Your Location: Input your location to find the contact information for your representatives.
  3. Make Your Calls: The platform will provide you with a script and the contact details of your representatives. Follow the script or personalize it with your own story for more impact.