At the Autism Society, we have prioritized the need to connect families to the services and resources to keep members of the Autism community safe. Through our Safety on the Spectrum™ program, we believe it is important to share the many benefits that water has on someone with Autism while also shedding light on the imperative need for safety surrounding aquatic environments.  

“We chose to highlight the water scenes featured in Charlie Makes A Splash in our social narrative which outlines key water safety rules in aquatic environments.” said Chris Banks, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America. “Through our Water and Wandering Program, we plan to increase water safety education and training across the Autism community to reduce water and wandering-related incidents.” 

Our upcoming Facebook video being published on Monday, May 22nd at 2:00 pm EST highlights the importance of water safety within the Autism community. Holly Robinson Peete of the HollyRod Foundation reads her new children’s book Child Makes and Splash during this episode. Christopher Banks joins in this discussion and shares water safety resources with viewers and how they can access these materials. 

Autism Society Water Safety Program

The Autism Society of America seeks to develop an adaptive aquatics curriculum that aims to support instructors and the Autism community nationwide. The Autism Society’s water and wandering initiative focuses on proactive programming, prevention, and improved responses to wandering incidents. The water and wandering initiative is a national effort to increase water safety education and training across the Autism community in order to decrease the tragic loss of life caused by water and wandering-related accidents.  This program works to not only prevent wandering-related tragedies but to increase water safety skills among Autistic children, teens, and adults- and those who support them.

To learn more about the Autism Society’s national programs and ways to get involved, please email info@autism-society.org.

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Autism Society of America

The Autism Society’s mission is to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. As the nation’s oldest leading grassroots Autism organization, the Autism Society and its approximately 70+ local affiliates serve over half a million members of the Autism community each year. It envisions a world where everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need, when they need it – including education, advocacy efforts, and supports and services throughout the lifespan. For more information, go to www.autismsociety.org, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

HollyRod Foundation

Founded in 1993 by actress, Holly Robinson Peete and her husband, former NFL player, Rodney Peete, the HollyRod Foundation is a recognized California based 501c3. The HollyRod Foundation is dedicated to raising awareness and providing resources to families that have a loved one who has received an Autism or Parkinson’s Disease diagnosis. We advocate for ethical treatment, inclusion, and access to services and treatment of individuals living with Autism or Parkinson’s Disease with the goal of empowering them to live their best lives.

The post National Statement: The Autism Society of America and HollyRod Foundation teamed up to read Holly’s children’s book Charlie Makes A Splash appeared first on Autism Society.

In this issue of Capitol Connection, an update on Congressional action regarding the debt ceiling and new legislation is provided. In addition, find some highlights from the Disability Policy Seminar and Autism Acceptance Month. New alerts and sample letters are now posted on our Action Center to help educate Members of Congress on legislation introduced in Congress. 

Debt Ceiling Bill

The House of Representatives narrowly passed a bill called the Limit, Save, Grow Act on April 26th. The bill aims to raise the government’s debt ceiling for one year in exchange for significant cuts to programs important to people with Autism that would be locked in place for the next decade. This includes work requirements for Medicaid that could result in millions losing access. The work requirements apply to all Medicaid pathways, including for those on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and home and community-based services (HCBS) waivers. People with disabilities would need a doctor or other medical professional to deem them “physically or mentally unfit for employment” to be exempt from the work rules.

The Autism Society issued a statement following the House vote urging Congress to lift the debt ceiling and negotiate the country’s spending priorities through the regular budget and appropriations process. Thanks to those who contacted their Representatives to educate them about the impact of these cuts. Please use the updated Action Alert to educate Senators so that this bill is never signed into law.

To help advocates understand current threats to Medicaid and other disability programs, the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities created a special resource page on Protecting Medicaid and Essential Programs. Resources include fact sheets on proposed work requirements and Medicaid cuts. In addition, CCD updated its resource page related to the Public Health Emergency wind-down. 

Disability Policy Seminar

Tracey Staley, Autism Society of America’s Board Chair introduces Senator Casey

Autism Society of Northern Virginia poses with Senator Kaine

The Autism Society co-sponsored the annual Disability Policy Seminar last week. Approximately 300 people participated in the virtual training on Monday followed by Capitol Hill visits on Thursday. Ten Members of Congress 

participated in the Capitol Hill breakfast to greet and speak with participants. They were Senators Casey (D-PA), Kaine (D-VA), Wyden (D-OR), Hassan (D-NH), Murphy (D-CT), and Representatives Beyer (D-VA), Molinaro (R-NY), Bonamici (D-OR), and Wright (R-TX). For those unable to join, the Autism Society will be creating a toolkit to help affiliates make their Hill visit virtually or in their home districts.

New Legislation 

Direct Support Workforce Bills

On April 26th, Senator Kaine (D-VA) reintroduced the Supporting Our Direct Care Workforce and Family Caregivers Act (S. 1298), a bill that would authorize grants through the Administration for Community Living to support the recruitment, training, and retention of direct care workers and family caregivers. Co-sponsors of the bill are Senators Bob Casey (D-PA, Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

On April 27th, Senators Hassan and Susan Collins (R-ME) and Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Joe Morelle (D-NY) introduced the Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act (S. 1332/ H.R. 2941), a bill that would require the creation of a standard occupational classification for direct support professionals.

Autism Family Caregivers Act

On April 27th, World Autism Day, Representatives Grace Meng (D-NY), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA.), Henry Cuellar (D-TX), and Marc Molinaro (R-NY) reintroduced the bipartisan Autism Family Caregivers Act. An identical bill was introduced in the Senate by Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and Susan Collins (D-ME). The legislation authorizes the establishment of a five-year pilot program to award grants to nonprofit organizations, community health centers, hospital systems, or a consortium, to provide evidence-based caregiver skills training to family caregivers of children with Autism and other developmental disabilities or delays.

Administration Updates

Caregiving Executive Order

President Biden singing the Executive Order with Disability Advocates

On April 18th, the Autism Society of America joined President Joe Biden at the White House as he signed an Executive Order to improve care for working families and support professionals caring for individuals with disabilities. The Executive Order directs the Department of Health and Human Services to issue several regulations and guidance documents to improve the quality of direct support professionals (DSP). This includes leveraging Medicaid funding to ensure there are enough home care workers to provide care to people with disabilities enrolled in Medicaid; test new models of respite care; target its grants to provide accessible, affordable child care; and taking steps to increase the pay and benefits for Head Start teachers and staff, among other actions.

Proposed “Access Rule” to Improve Medicaid Services
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) working with the Administration for Community Living (ACL), published a proposed rule, Ensuring Access to Medicaid Services (Access Rule) to improve access to — and quality of — Medicaid services and promote health equity across the Medicaid program. The proposed rule applies to all Medicaid services, including home and community-based services (HCBS). The Autism Society will be submitting comments. Comments must be received by July 3rd, 2023. The proposed rule strengthens many aspects of Medicaid HCBS, including the direct care workforce, health, and safety protections. This action is related to the President’s executive order on caregiving and services mentioned in the previous article.

IDEA Annual Report  

The United States Department of Education released its 44th annual report on the implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This report is required annually by Congress for the Department to inform them of the progress being made to implement IDEA. The report includes state-by-state data on individuals served under IDEA, their characteristics, settings, exits, disciplinary removals, and legal disputes. The report found that students with Autism served under IDEA have slightly increased for every age group. To find specific data on your state, look through section 2 on page 83. 

Office on Civil Rights Annual Report

On May 1st, the Department of Education’s Office on Civil Rights (OCR) published its annual report for FY 2022. OCR’s mission is to ensure equal access to education and to promote educational excellence across the nation through the vigorous enforcement of civil rights laws. Among its findings in FY 2022, OCR resolved the second highest number of investigations in its history – 16,515 cases—while processing the highest volume of complaints in our history – 18,804 complaints; initiated an unprecedented and targeted 100 proactive compliance reviews; published 7 sets of resources and guidance addressing sex discrimination and disability rights; provided 186 technical assistance presentations; responded to 633 inquiries and 826 FOIA requests; collected civil rights data with a 100% reporting rate from required submitters; revised the Complaint Processing Manual to clarify its processes and added a new tool to help manage the caseload and meet complainants’ and recipients’ interest in efficient resolution.

CDC Expands the ADDM Network 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced in March that the Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network, which tracks the number and characteristics of children with Autism, is expanding. The funding to support the expansion comes from the Fiscal Year 2023 Appropriations. Five new sites will become a part of the network, including sites in Arizona, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Austin Texas, and Laredo Texas. In addition, four existing sites will expand to track transition planning and co-occurring conditions among 16-year-olds with Autism. For more information, visit the CDC ADDM website. 

President’s Committee on IDD

On May 1st, the President’s Committee on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (PCIDD) held its first meeting of the year. The Autism Society attended virtually. During the meeting, the committee heard back from workgroups related to the direct workforce crisis and community-based services, employment, emergency management, and other federal support programs. Self-advocate committee members provided compelling testimony on the unmet needs of those with IDD. PCPID is an advisory body that promotes policies and initiatives that support independence and lifelong community inclusion. 

Autism Acceptance Month 

Kris Steinetz from the Autism Society of Iowa poses with Governor Kim Reynolds

President Biden declared April 2nd as World Autism Awareness Day. In his proclamation, he calls for more support for community living and employment for those with Autism in America, along with bringing more awareness to help with early identification. The President also mentioned Kevin and Avonte’s Law which was reauthorized last year. Many Governors across the country also proclaimed April as Autism Acceptance Month.  

Kris Steinmetz from the Autism Society of Iowa had a proclamation signing with Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds to declare April as Autism Acceptance Month. In addition, 13 other Governors and two districts/territories declared April as Autism Acceptance Month. Thanks to those state advocates who helped to make this happen 

The post Capitol Connection: May 4, 2023 appeared first on Autism Society.

Mental Health Support & Statistics

• Health and Wellness  (Autism Society resource)
• Social Story: Dealing with Feelings of Anxiety and Depression (Autism Society resource)
• Infographic: What is Mental Health Parity?
• Autism and the Risk of Bipolar Disorder
• Masters of Masking: Autistic Men Who Camouflage
• Healthcare barriers prevent many Autistic people from seeking medical treatment

Suicide Prevention

• Social Story: 988 National Suicide Prevention Hotline (Autism Society resource)
• 988 Lifeline: Resources for Neurodivergent People
• Warning Signs of Suicide for Autistic People
• Autism and the Troubling Risk of Suicide
• My Journey from Suicidal Thoughts, Hospitalization, and Depression to So Much Hope

Summer Activities

• Managing End-of-Year Stress at School
• Tips for an Autism-Friendly Family Vacation
• Summer Camps for Children With Autism 

Water Safety Month

• Water Safety Checklist
• Water Social Story

Public Policy

• As the Public Health Emergency is coming to an end on May 11th, many important policies will come to an end. Be sure to stay updated using our guide.
• As Congress negotiates the budget and lifts the debt ceiling, be sure to use our Action Center to ensure your Members of Congress do not reduce Medicaid and other funding that is critical for the disability community.

The Autism Society’s National Helpline is here to support you and provide you with the resources you need. Our Information & Referral Specialists are available Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (Eastern Time) at 800-3-AUTISM (800-328-8476) or info@autism-society.org.

The Autism Society’s mission is to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. As the nation’s oldest leading grassroots Autism organization, the Autism Society and its 70+ local affiliates serve over half a million members of the Autism community each year. It envisions a world where everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need, when they need it – including education, advocacy efforts, and supports and services throughout the lifespan. If you found this article helpful, please consider supporting our efforts through a donation, every bit helps. Donate here!

The post May Resources: Mental Health Supports, Suicide Prevention, Summer Activities appeared first on Autism Society.

The legislation makes across-the-board cuts of at least $142 billion (or 9 percent) for critical government programs. If defense and veterans programs are not included, then the cuts will climb to 22 percent or higher for non-defense discretionary programs. This would result in loss of access to child care, education, employment, housing, food assistance, and longer wait times for Social Security. The legislation further seeks to lock in those cuts for the next 10 years. It also includes a drastic cut to Medicaid (approximately $100 billion by some estimates) and increases work requirements for those eligible for Medicaid.

Christopher S. Banks, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America states, “While it is appropriate for Congress to cut wasteful spending, using the debt ceiling to extract cuts to services for individuals with Autism and families is cruel, wrong and unjust. At a time when families are suffering from insufficient supports and services, Congress should be looking for ways to expand support, not cut it.”

The Autism Society of America signed on to a letter along with more than 160 other disability and aging organizations urging Congress to not make cuts to Medicaid. The organization also issued an Action Alert urging our families to educate their Members of Congress about the harm such cuts would have on families.  

The Autism Society of America urges Congress to lift the debt ceiling without conditions and negotiate budget priorities through the regular budget and appropriations process.

The post National Statement: Autism Society of America Condemns Passage of Limit, Save, Grow Act appeared first on Autism Society.

Affordable, accessible, quality child care and respite services are essential to give families the support they need. The Autism Society prioritizes advocating for additional funding for Medicaid-funded home and community-based services.

“Our community-based service system is in crisis. Many Autistic individuals want to live at home or in their community with support, but funding has not kept up with the needs of families,” stated Christopher Banks, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America. “Parents often care for their adult children until they need support themselves.”

The bipartisan Better Care Better Jobs Act, introduced in both the House and Senate, would increase access to personal care services, family supports, community behavioral health services and expand eligibility requirements. It would also facilitate greater coordination with employment, housing and transportation supports. An independent analysis estimates the bill would provide enough funding to enable 3.2 million more individuals to receive services.

The President’s Budget also includes $150 billion over the next decade to improve and expand Medicaid home care services—making it easier for people with disabilities to live, work, and participate in their communities. 

Banks continued, “We applaud President Biden’s actions and urge Congress to pass the Better Care Better Jobs Act to support families with disabilities.”

Next week, the Autism Society is co-sponsoring the Disability Policy Seminar, along with several other major disability organizations. The annual seminar includes a day on the Hill where people with disabilities, family members, and professionals will urge Congress to support the President’s Budget and legislation, such as the Better Care Better Jobs Act, to address waiting lists and raise wages for direct care workers. 

The post National Statement: Autism Society of America Applauds President Biden’s Executive Order to Support Families with Disabilities appeared first on Autism Society.

Employment plays a pivotal role in transitions to adulthood, independent living, socialization, self-worth, and confidence. The Autism Society is committed to:

• Educating employers to build inclusive hiring models
• Training teams for supportive services and accommodations
• Connecting Autistic employees to job opportunities
• Working to reduce systemic barriers to meaningful employment

Through this initiative, we seek to redefine employment for Autistic individuals by embracing a Fulfillment Mindset. Recognizing that traditional notions of employment may not be ideal or accessible for everyone, our approach highlights the importance of social-emotional fulfillment for Autistic individuals in their employment journeys. In this introductory article, we will explore various avenues of employment, maintaining benefits, and the importance of including individuals with higher support needs and learning disabilities in our mission. 

The Fulfillment Mindset

The core principle of our Fulfillment Mindset is recognizing that there are numerous ways for Autistic individuals to achieve fulfillment through employment. This could include continued learning, passion projects, job/career shadowing, volunteering, coaching, and part-time or full-time integration into competitive integrated employment. By focusing on whole-person integration in employment and community surroundings, we can better support those with Autism in workplace settings and throughout their lives.

Exploring New Industries and Opportunities

It is essential for Autistic individuals to have access to a variety of industries and opportunities that align with their interests, strengths, and passions. As part of our employment focus, we will provide resources and support for exploring different fields, such as technology, arts, healthcare, and more. By doing so, we aim to empower Autistic individuals to make informed decisions about their career paths, while simultaneously promoting diversity and inclusion in the workforce. Through connections with K-12, post-secondary training and college, and with state and federal support systems, we aim to make the journey from exploration to innovation an opportunity for the Autistic community. 

Maintaining State and Federal SSDI Benefits

We understand that financial stability is crucial for many Autistic individuals and their families. Our employment initiative emphasizes the importance of maintaining any state or federal SSDI benefits while exploring fulfilling employment opportunities. By educating individuals and families about their rights and options, we aim to strike a balance between pursuing meaningful work and securing necessary financial support.

As we work towards the ability for individuals to navigate the complexities of the SSDI benefits, know that we are working to promote better transitions and supports for exploring career opportunities, and options, while simultaneously receiving benefits. No one should have their financial stability shaken by striving to integrate themselves into the workforce.

Inclusion for Individuals with Higher Support Needs and Learning Disabilities

Our commitment to the Fulfillment Mindset incorporates the idea of being fully inclusive to those who have differing needs on the Autism spectrum. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience fulfillment and contribute to their community in meaningful ways. By providing targeted resources, training, and support, we strive to create more inclusive environments and systems that ensure individuals with diverse needs can thrive in their chosen paths.

Conclusion

We at the Autism Society of America embrace the concept and ideal of a Fulfillment Mindset and aim to redefine employment for Autistic individuals and encourage social-emotional fulfillment, exploring various industries, and maintaining necessary benefits. By emphasizing whole-person integration, we hope to create a more inclusive and supportive landscape for Autistic individuals to achieve success in their employment journeys. Together, let us celebrate the unique strengths and abilities of the Autism community and work towards a future filled with diverse, fun, interesting, and fulfilling opportunities for all.

We are also dedicated to identifying organizations and programs that allow individuals with Autism, who have complex support needs, to explore their interests and expand their skills in a variety of fields and industries. If you are an organization or know of one, please reach out to us so we can work to collaborate on opportunities for all Autistic individuals. Learn more about our employment work and related resources. 

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In this issue of Capitol Connection, find a final notice to register for the Disability Policy Seminar, news about the first-ever sensory-friendly White House Easter Egg Roll, newly introduced legislation, and important congressional hearings, and new resources to help state advocates. New alerts and sample letters are now posted on our Action Center to help educate Members of Congress regarding legislation introduced in Congress. 

 You can still register for the 2023 Disability Policy Seminar. The virtual training takes place on April 24th. Topics include federal funding, community living, health and family supports, education, employment, and housing. If you register, you can also view the recording later. In-person or virtual Hill visits are scheduled for April 27th; however, visits with your Members of Congress can also be scheduled via Zoom or when they are back in their districts at any time. Please use the fact sheets and our Action Center for issue ideas and talking points. 

White House Sensory Friendly Easter Egg Roll 

The Autism Society was able to invite two dozen families from the Washington D.C. area to participate in the first-ever sensory-friendly hour at the annual White House Easter Egg Roll. The special event allowed children with disabilities to enjoy the festivities without the worry of sensory overload. Families enjoyed the shorter lines and reduced noise while they hunted for easter eggs, and rolled eggs down the South Lawn, among other activities.

International Children with Disabilities Protection Act

On March 16th, Senators Menendez (D-NJ) and Moran (R-KS) re-introduced the International Children with Disabilities Protection Act. The bipartisan effort would authorize $10 million annually for five years for an ‘‘International Children with Disabilities Protection Program,” a State Department grant program that would empower organizations advocating for persons with disabilities. The legislation creates a program focused on helping global efforts to combat stigma and discrimination against children with disabilities. It also protects and promotes the development of laws and policies that support the full inclusion of children with disabilities.

Guardianship Bill of Rights Act

On March 30th, Senators Casey (D-PA), Fetterman (D-PA), Warren (D-MA), and Sanders (I-VT) introduced the Guardianship Bill of Rights Act (S. 1148). The bill establishes a Guardianship and Other Protective Arrangements and Supported Decision-Making Council that would be responsible for promoting less restrictive arrangements for people living under or being considered for guardianships. The bill also creates a protection and advocacy agency focused on the rights of people being considered for and living under guardianship. The Senate Special Committee on Aging hosted a hearing to highlight the need for this bill. The hearing can be viewed here. 

Bill to Protect People with Disabilities During Natural Disasters

On March 29th, Senator Casey (D-PA) and Representative Dingell (D-MI-6) introduced the Real Emergency Access for Aging and Disability Inclusion (REAADI) for Disasters Act (S.1049 / H.R. 2371). The READDI for Disaster Act will ensure “there is a strong disability and older adult voice in the preparation, response, recovery, and mitigation of disasters.” Specifically, the REAADI for Disasters Act will establish a National Commission on Disability Rights and Disasters to address the needs of these communities when it comes to disaster preparedness plans; create a national network of centers focused on training, technical assistance, and research, to assist states and territories to better involve and support people with disabilities and older adults; direct the U.S. Department of Justice to review the spending of disaster funds by federal agencies and states; create a competitive grant program to pilot strategies for greater inclusion of people with disabilities and older adults in disaster preparation, response, recovery, and mitigation; and more.

Food Assistance

Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD) introduced the America Works Act, a bill to amend the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to standardize work requirements for able-bodied adults enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Work requirements for SNAP beneficiaries can have harmful effects. These requirements can result in coverage loss due to red tape and administrative burdens. Many beneficiaries may not know about the work requirement or whether it applies to them. Taking coverage away from people not meeting work requirements increases financial hardship and reduces access to food. This can have disastrous consequences for the health and well-being of SNAP beneficiaries and their children. The Center on Budget and Public Policies (CBPP) developed an issue brief for policymakers and advocates. 

Senate Aging Committee on Home and Community-Based Services

The Senate Special Committee held a hearing entitled “Uplifting Families, Workers, and Older Adults: Supporting Communities of Care”. This hearing focused on the critical need for more direct support workers to support home and community-based services. In his opening statement, Chairman Bob Casey discussed how two bills he introduced would help. He said, “The Better Care Better Jobs Act and the HCBS Access Act are complementary. The first one is an investment to create a robust HCBS provider infrastructure for the recruitment and retention of workers. The second bill establishes a permanent funding stream to keep the infrastructure strong and make sure we’re able to continue to pay direct care professionals at a rate that ensures qualified, reliable services and a qualified, reliable workforce into the future.” Witnesses emphasized the growing need for more support workers, testifying that in this decade, a million more new workers will be needed to support the community. In addition, 60 percent of support workers of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are over the age of 60 years old. The witnesses cited reasons for this crisis to include low wages, high turnover, lack of movement in the field, and Medicaid reimbursement rates. Use the Autism Society Action Center to educate your Members of Congress about these and other bills that support people with Autism.

Hiring and Employment Hearing

The House Committee on Education and the Workforce hosted a hearing entitled “Unleashing America’s Opportunities for Hiring and Employment.” This hearing mostly focused on labor unions, expanding apprenticeship programs and pell grant programs, and reauthorizing the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). The Autism Society signed on to a Collaboration to Promote Self-Determination (CPSD) letter to the committee stressing the importance of increasing competitive employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. 

Pediatric Training

The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), which acts as the governing body of all U.S. medical residency training programs, has proposed a change to their practices to no longer require Developmental-Behavioral Pediatricians to be on the faculty of pediatric residency programs. This proposal would have a significant negative impact on educating residents on how to provide healthcare to children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Autism Society of America submitted comments urging ACGME not to waive these requirements. Several affiliates also submitted comments.  

Education

RISE Act

The Respond, Innovate, Succeed, and Empower (RISE) Act was reintroduced in the current Congress by Senators Cassidy (R-LA), Hassan (D-NH), and Todd (R-IN), and Representatives Bonamici (D-OR) and McMorris Rodgers (R-WA). The  RISE Act helps students with disabilities transition to and succeed in college by requiring colleges to accept a student’s IEP, 504 plan, or prior evaluation as sufficient proof of their disability when seeking accommodations, making information about disability services in college more accessible for families and students, and supporting a technical assistance center for college faculty to learn more about the needs of students with disabilities. Please use our action alert to urge your Members of Congress to support this bill to make higher education more accessible. 

Discipline in Schools

In a “Dear Colleague” letter to governors and school leaders, the Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said that educators should move away from “paddling, spanking or otherwise imposing physical punishment on students.” The use of corporal punishment has declined but still disproportionately impacts students of color and students with disabilities. Twenty-three states still legally allow corporal punishment. The Secretary urges schools to not engage in this practice regardless of whether their state allows it and to instead practice evidence-based strategies, including positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) and multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS). 

Resources

Unwinding of Continuous Enrollment 

The Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) released a report on the progress and actions states are taking as they unwind the continuous enrollment provisions of Medicaid and CHIP. The report identified 10 key steps states can take as they work through re-enrollment such as taking the entire 12 months to complete the process, improving the amount of renewals without needing enrollee support (ex parte), publishing data on the state website, contacting enrollees when mail is returned, etc. The report has key data on what actions states are taking to ensure an equitable process. KFF also hosted a webinar on the topic where they presented key findings from the report and held a panel discussion with state experts to answer questions. 

The Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) sent a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) asking CMS to make states’ Renewal Plans public as many states do not have up-to-date information available to the public.  

Self-Determination/HCBS Settings Rule

The Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Settings Rule went into effect one month ago. It is important that advocates are aware of the rule and the rights to which individuals are entitled. The Autistic Self Advocacy Network updated its easy-to-read and plain language toolkit to help advocates develop their person-centered planning and advocate for their rights. In addition, the Autism Society led a workshop with the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities, entitled “Creating Community” (a recording will soon be available), and developed a checklist to help advocates ensure their service provider is following the new rule. 

The post Capitol Connection: April 13, 2023 appeared first on Autism Society.

April 4, 2023, Rockville, MD  –  The Autism Society of America and Chrysler will announce a new long-term partnership initiative that supports the driving needs of individuals with Autism and their loved ones, including through the creation of a new Calm Cabin package that can transform any Chrysler Pacifica into a sensory-supported mobile experience.

On April 5 at the 2023 New York International Auto Show, Chrysler will announce its partnership with the Autism Society, the oldest and largest grassroots Autism organization in the country. The announcement coincides with April’s Autism Acceptance Month, as well as the Autism Society’s fifth annual Celebrate Differences campaign.

Chrysler Pacifica has always served the needs of families with the brand’s purpose of providing calm and bringing harmony to the lives of owners. Chrysler is reinforcing its commitment to providing real solutions for even more families in need. Through its new partnership, the Chrysler brand and the Autism Society will work to make travel more comfortable for all through thoughtful design, support accommodations, educational resources, and local community engagement.

In addition, throughout the month of April, Chrysler will use its platforms to encourage followers of the brand on social media to make donations, spread awareness for early diagnosis of Autism, promote inclusion in the greater community and practice acceptance in everyday life. Donations to the Autism Society can be made at AutismSociety.org/donate.

Chrysler brand will also provide a courtesy one-year loan of three 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Pinnacle vehicles for use by the Autism Society.

“At Chrysler, we believe it’s no longer enough to be ‘aware’ of the millions of people living and thriving with Autism, we must put acceptance into action,” said Chris Feuell, Chrysler brand chief executive officer – Stellantis. “We’re proud to offer life-enriching opportunities for individuals with Autism and their families with initiatives, such as our new Calm Cabin package, that bring a little harmony to people’s lives, whether they are on a long road trip or running a quick errand.”

The Autism Society will help advise the development of Chrysler products and assist with organization-wide inclusion training to build better experiences for the Autism community interacting with dealers across the country.

“The Autism Society of America is proud to partner with Chrysler to create an improved and inclusive driving experience for the Autism community,” said Christopher Banks, president and CEO of the Autism Society of America. “With a trusted partner like Chrysler, our work is amplified as we collaborate to instill inclusive workplace practices, product accommodations and create more opportunities for the Autism community to live fully.”

Chrysler Calm Cabin Package
A 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Limited on display at the New York International Auto Show, featuring branded Autism Society vehicle graphics, will also serve as a showcase for the brand’s new Calm Cabin package, which helps those with Autism feel calm, safe and comfortable.

Available in late spring through Chrysler’s online merchandise retail store, the Chrysler-branded package includes: 

• Seat-back organizer with adjustable straps, five front pockets, interior clear pocket that holds a tablet computer and a black mesh pocket
• Rechargeable, cordless Bluetooth meditative light and sound therapy machine that fits in the center pocket of the seat-back organizer with five LED color modes, four light therapy modes, breathing coach and 15 sound therapy modes
• Comforting seat belt sleeve with soft-touch velvet feel
• Comforting soft-touch travel pillow
• Comforting, seven-layer, 12-pound weighted sensory blanket

Items available as part of the Calm Cabin package will also be available for purchase separately.

As part of the brand’s long-term partnership with the Autism Society, Chrysler will work to identify additional areas where the brand can support and affect meaningful change in the Autism community. In collaboration with its U.S. dealer network, Chrysler will work to roll out dealer-network staff training designed to familiarize dealership employees with the unique needs of individuals and families in the Autism community.

The Chrysler brand’s new initiative with the Autism Society was developed in partnership with Doner, the brand’s creative agency.

Autism and Autos
Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States, with one in 36 children receiving a diagnosis, according to the newly released report from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). In addition to the 5.8 million autistic adults in the U.S., Autism likely touches a vast majority of Americans either through relationships or direct experience, and the support needs across the Autism spectrum are vastly different.

One of the spaces requiring the most support is on the road. Vehicles can be stressful, scary experiences for those with Autism due to an environment that can be overstimulating and uncomfortable. For some, it means every road trip to school, practice, work or on daily errands becomes a difficult, challenging experience.

Autism Society of America
The Autism Society’s mission is to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. As the nation’s oldest leading grassroots Autism organization, the Autism Society and its approximately 70+ local affiliates serve over half a million members of the Autism community each year. It envisions a world where everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need, when they need it – including education, advocacy efforts, and supports and services throughout the lifespan. During Autism Acceptance Month, the Autism Society has a goal to fundraise $350,000 to expand acceptance in practice for the Autism community. For more information, go to www.autismsociety.org, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
 
Chrysler Brand
The Chrysler brand has delighted customers with distinctive designs, craftsmanship, advanced innovation and technology since the company was founded in 1925. The Chrysler Pacifica continues to reinvent the minivan, a segment Chrysler invented nearly 40 years ago. Pacifica delivers an unprecedented level of functionality, versatility, technology and bold styling along with the most standard safety features in the industry and most advanced available all-wheel-drive system in its class. The available innovative plug-in hybrid powertrain takes this revolutionary vehicle a step further. It’s the first electrified vehicle in the minivan segment and achieves more than 80 MPGe in electric-only mode, has an all-electric range of more than 30 miles and a total range of more than 500 miles. Chrysler Pacifica is also the most awarded minivan over the last six years with more than 170 honors and industry accolades since its introduction as a minivan. The Chrysler 300 lineup delivers on the brand’s promise of accessible luxury, with iconic and elegant design, world-class performance, efficiency and quality. Chrysler is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellantis.com.

Follow Chrysler and company news and video on:
Company blog: http://blog.stellantisnorthamerica.com
Media website: http://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com
Chrysler brand: www.chrysler.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/chrysler
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrysler 
Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrysler or @StellantisNA
YouTube: www.youtube.com/chrysler or https://www.youtube.com/StellantisNA 

For more information, please visit the Stellantis media site for North America at https://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com.

The post Press Release: Chrysler Partners with Autism Society of America appeared first on Autism Society.

As part of our partnership, Pura Vida is launching two new custom styles using our new brand colors. Each purchase from our Autism Society bracelet collection will donate 5% of the purchase price to support our mission of connecting Autistic individuals and their families to education, resources, and advocacy that empowers the community.

These bracelets are now available to order online through the Pura Vida website, and their in-store locations. Shop our Autism Society Style Pack bracelets and our original Autism Society bracelet today. Whether you prefer to browse from the comfort of your own home or enjoy the in-store shopping experience, you can easily get your hands on these stylish accessories.

If you live near one of Pura Vida’s store locations, we invite you to pay a visit to a nearby Pura Vida store. In select locations including Pura Vida’s San Diego, Irvine, Myrtle Beach, and Gilbert stores, you can contribute to our acceptance wall, learn more about your local Autism Society affiliates, and even receive some exciting swag to take home with you. Pura Vida is also hosting a week-long charity donation with 5% of every purchase bought through influencers, which will go to the Autism Society of America from Thursday, March 30th – Wednesday, April 5th. 

By purchasing an Autism Acceptance bracelet, you can join us in our efforts to #CelebrateDifferences and work towards a more inclusive world for everyone. Order yours today as they are likely to sell out!

Learn more about our work with Pura Vida and our other corporate partners.

The post Pura Vida Launches New Bracelets Supporting the Autism Society appeared first on Autism Society.

The post Press Release: Autism Society of America is Calling on Congress to Address National Issues Facing the Autism Community appeared first on Autism Society.