Why WAA? (The Challenges)

While there are many organizations nationwide devoted to support and research related to autism spectrum disorders, our approach is unique. We believe in advocacy for individual access balanced with systems change advocacy and policy reform. We are the nation’s only legal advocate for people with autism that is increasing access to healthcare and education regardless of the ability to pay.  Our staff have specialized training and lived experience with autism and developmental disabilities. This personal and professional expertise drives them to deliver practical and empathetic service to our clients.

Our successful track record of legislative, legal, and other advocacy has opened access to service for nearly 10,000 clients directly and ensured rights to coverage for over 58,000 more.  Some of our key wins in both healthcare and education:

• Autism supplements included in IEPs across Washington school districts (2008)
• ASD therapies coverage required in federal healthcare reform (2010)
• Washington provides ASD benefits for all public employees (2011)
• Medicaid provides autism coverage for all low-income families in Washington (2012)
• All prominent private insurers cover Washington state regulated health plans (2015)
• Autism screening funded for all children under 36 months in Washington (2015)
• Laws regulating seclusion and restraints of students in schools (2015)

Washington Autism Alliance sets an annual policy agenda focused on education and healthcare reform that increases access and elevates the rights of children and adults with autism spectrum disorders. Each year we draw from our grassroots origins mobilizing parents and families in support of long-term systems change.