The Autistic Self Advocacy Network applauds Secretary Sebelius and the leadership of the Department of Health and Human Services for the creation of the new Administration on Community Living. By bringing together the HHS Office on Disability, the Administration on Developmental Disabilities and the Administration on Aging under one roof, the Department has sent a clear message about its commitment to the cause of community integration for all people with disabilities.
This new administrative structure will open up new opportunities for policy innovation and collaboration across silos. Furthermore, the elevation of the Administration on Developmental Disabilities out of the Administration for Children and Families reflects a positive acknowledgement of the reality that developmental disabilities are lifespan issues, and do not go away after childhood. We applaud the Department for this exciting new initiative, and look forward to working with the Administration on Community Living on ensuring the full integration of Autistic people and others with disabilities into society.