World Autism Awareness Day, 2013

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Title 3--
The President

Proclamation 8954 of April 1, 2013

World Autism Awareness Day, 2013

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Today, public health officials estimate that 1 in every
88 children in America is growing up on the autism
spectrum. It is a reality that affects millions of
families every day, from the classroom to the job
market. And while our country has made progress in
supporting Americans with autism spectrum disorders
(ASDs), we are only beginning to understand the factors
behind the challenges they face. On World Autism
Awareness Day, we recommit to helping individuals on
the autism spectrum reach their full potential.

To achieve that goal, we need a health care system that
works for children and adults with ASDs. The Affordable
Care Act prevents insurers from denying coverage to
children on the autism spectrum, and it ensures new
health plans must cover autism screenings at no cost to
parents. Beginning in 2014, the Act will make it
illegal for insurance companies to discriminate against
men and women with preexisting conditions, including
ASDs. And looking ahead, my Administration is investing
in medical research that can help unlock tomorrow's
breakthroughs in autism detection, intervention, and
education.

Leveling the playing field for Americans on the autism
spectrum also takes commitment in our schools. That is
why we are advancing initiatives to help students with
ASDs get a good education free from discrimination and
undue hardship. And it is why we are making sure that
education can lead to meaningful employment by
supporting vocational rehabilitation programs and
opening higher education to more people on the autism
spectrum.

All Americans should have the chance to live full,
independent lives and follow their talents wherever
they lead. This month, we recognize Americans with ASDs
who are walking through doors of opportunity, and we
recommit to opening them wider in the years ahead.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the
United States, do hereby proclaim April 2, 2013, as
World Autism Awareness Day. I encourage all Americans
to learn more about autism and what they can do to
support individuals on the autism spectrum and their
families.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
first day of April, in the year of our Lord two
thousand thirteen, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
seventh.