Presidential Documents

Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 66 / Thursday, April 5, 2012 / Presidential Documents 20501 

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. 

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. 


Tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PRES DOC
20502 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 66 / Thursday, April 5, 2012 / Presidential Documents 

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. 

[FR Doc. 2012–8343 

Filed 4–4–12; 8:45 am] 

Billing code 3295–F2–P 


Tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PRES DOCOB#1.EPS</GPH>