LEGISLATION WATCH
On Thursday, February 16, 2017, the Autism Society and nationwide affiliate network held its annual Day on the Hill in Washington, D.C. This critical day of advocacy and legislative action presented an opportunity to educate congressional leaders about important policy issues that impact the autism community. With state and local affiliates represented from every corner of the nation, the Autism Society conducted meetings with senators, representatives, and staff in Washington, D.C. to advocate for programs and services that allow people with autism to achieve the highest quality of life.
This year, the Autism Society urged elected officials to protect Medicaid from drastic cuts and structural changes and to ensure Congress does not repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) without simultaneous passage of comparable legislation that maintains or improves existing coverage or access. Advocates also urged Members to fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and to protect the rights and remedies afforded to students under the law.
Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), a co-chair of the Coalition for Autism Research and Education (or "Autism Caucus") in Congress, received the inaugural 2017 Ignite 4 Autism Award, Congressional Champion. Congressman Smith was recognized for his dedication to citizens with disabilities through his work as co-chair of the bicameral, bipartisan Autism Caucus and chief sponsor of the landmark piece of wandering prevention legislation, H.R. 4919, Kevin and Avonte’s Law.
IN THE DISTRICT - STATE AND LOCAL ADVOCACY
Autism Society Central Virginia and Autism Society Northern Virginia joined with The Arc of Virginia and major disability organizations in the state of Virginia to host Developmental Disabilities (DD) Advocacy Day in Richmond, Virginia, earlier this month. DD Advocacy Day brings together families, self-advocates, and organizations dedicated to advocating for full inclusion and participation of Virginia residents with developmental disabilities across the lifespan. Both affiliates provided transportation for individuals with autism and families to be able to attend and participate in legislative meetings with members of the Virginia General Assembly. Take a look at the great pictures from the event HERE.
PUBLIC POLICY UPDATES
The Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) will hold its full committee meeting on Wednesday, April 26, 2017, at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland. The Autism Society's immediate past national board chairman, Dr. Jim Ball represents the Autism Society on this critical federal advisory committee for issues related to the Department of Health and Human Services' autism initiatives. To learn more about IAAC, visit HERE.
COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS
Illinois, Iowa, and Minnesota Launch ABLE Programs
Study Finds Medicaid Waivers Help Parents Stay Employed
Department of Education to Review Special Education Programs in 12 Texas School Districts
Supreme Court Sides With Family In Service Dog Case
Disability Policy Seminar - March 20-22, 2017
Autism Study Bill Passes Indiana House
49th Annual Autism Society National Conference and Exposition – July 12-15, 2017
Call for Presentations: 2017 National Lifespan Respite Conference
ADVOCACY TIP
According to a survey conducted by the Congressional Management Foundation, nearly 80 percent of congressional offices rely on social media to enable them to have more meaningful interactions with constituents. Be sure to follow your elected officials on social media and share your story throughout your social channels.
For more advocacy
For more advocacy tips, email advocacy@autism-society.org or follow us on Twitter @Ignite4Autism and use hashtag #Ignite4Autism.
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