ExecutiveOrdersEO
Proc 8647ProclamationObama · DCeremonial

Proclamation 8647

World Autism Awareness Day, 2011

President Obama proclaimed April 2 of each year as World Autism Awareness Day, recognizing autism spectrum disorders as an urgent public health issue and calling on Americans to learn more about autism and support affected individuals and families. The proclamation highlights ongoing administration efforts through HHS to expand autism research, early detection, services, and community support.

Federal Register Open PDF 76 FR 19265

Key directives

  • proclaim April 2 of each year as World Autism Awareness Day
  • call upon the people of the United States to learn more about autism and support individuals on the autism spectrum and their families

Timeline

Immediate

  • annual designation of April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day takes effect

Near term (90d)

—

Long term

  • ongoing HHS-led investments in autism research, public health tracking, early detection, and services
  • continued federal and state program improvements for individuals with ASDs

Risks & tensions

  • proclamation contains no binding policy directives or funding mandates—primarily hortatory
  • reference to working with Congress suggests legislative action needed for substantive program changes
Proclamation 8647: World Autism Awareness Day, 2011 · Executive Orders