[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 127, 113th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8954--APR. 1, 2013

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



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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.
BARACK OBAMA