[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 126, 112th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8795--APR. 2, 2012

Proclamation 8795 of April 2, 2012

World Autism Awareness Day, 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) affect young people and adults of every
background, and millions of American families know the weight of their
impact. On World Autism Awareness Day, we recognize ASDs as a growing
public health issue and recommit to supporting those living with an ASD
and their loved ones.


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We have made great strides in our understanding of the autism spectrum,
and today, children and adults with ASDs are leading independent and
productive lives. However, barriers still remain for these individuals
and their families. As a Nation, we share a responsibility to ensure
persons living with ASDs have the opportunity to pursue their full
measure of happiness and achieve their greatest potential.
Meeting the needs of Americans on the autism spectrum remains a priority
for my Administration. Last September, I was proud to sign the Combating
Autism Reauthorization Act, which provides critical funding for autism
research, education, early detection, and support and services for
children and adults. Under the Affordable Care Act, new insurance plans
are required to cover autism screenings and developmental assessments
for children at no additional cost to parents. Insurance companies can
no longer deny coverage to children with pre-existing conditions, and
young people can stay on their parents' health insurance plan until age
26, easing financial burdens for families. With the Department of
Education, we are making substantial investments in enhancing education
for children on the autism spectrum--from early learning to higher
education. And federally funded research continues to explore how we can
improve independent living, develop assistive technology, and advance
vocational rehabilitation services for individuals with autism. For
additional information and resources, I encourage all Americans to visit
www.HHS.gov/autism.
As new policies and bold actions break down old barriers and reshape
attitudes, we move closer to a world free of discrimination and full of
understanding for our family members and friends living with ASDs. On
World Autism Awareness Day, let us reaffirm our dedication to supporting
those on the autism spectrum and their families, and let us continue the
work of ensuring all our people have a chance at achieving the American
dream.
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, 2012, 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 second day of
April, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
sixth.
BARACK OBAMA