Why Advocacy Matters

According to the Congressional Management Foundation, 97% of Congressional staff say that in-person visits from constituents have “some” or “a lot” of influence on an undecided lawmaker. 90% say personalized emails or letters from constituents are impactful, especially when they come in volume or are emotionally resonant. 

While at the Autism Forum and Hill Day in Washington, DC, I saw the impact firsthand and was honored to be a part of it. There is already federal news on that front, but I’m going to share our local impact first! 

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 112, which offers significant benefits to children with autism and their families.

Here’s how the bill helps:

* Early Steps program being extended to age 4, as opposed to the previous age of 3, so children can receive essential therapies (physical, speech, ABA) through that critical 4th year.

* Free autism screenings are being expanded, providing more early detection opportunities for families.

* New grants for autism-specific summer programs and charter schools that support structured, year-round care tailored for our children. 

* Teacher and staff training programs via a free micro‑credential through the University of Florida Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment. This builds a more informed, skilled workforce across the state.

This legislation serves to fill gaps, improve access, and place evidence-based support front and center. In other words, it’s a game changer for autism families with younger children. While the House version of this bill is still on the table, we acknowledge an essential step being taken by our Congressional representatives. 

As an autism mom, advocate, and lifelong Floridian, I am celebrating this step and pushing for follow-through. Let’s continue to hold our state leaders and representatives accountable. Let’s ensure that this bill turns into real progress for our kids and families.

If you have a story or know a family that’s directly impacted, share your experience below.

Let’s build up our community together.

Keep on sparkling! ✨