Bill S-203

Federal Framework on Autism Spectrum Disorder Act

An Act respecting a federal framework on autism spectrum disorder

Status

This bill has received Royal Assent and is, or will soon become, law.

Summary

This is from the published bill.

This enactment provides for the development of a federal framework designed to support autistic Canadians, their families and their caregivers.

Similar bills

C-219 (41st Parliament, 2nd session) National Strategy for Autism Spectrum Disorders Act

C-219 (41st Parliament, 1st session) National Strategy for Autism Spectrum Disorders Act

C-504 (40th Parliament, 3rd session) National Strategy for Autism Spectrum Disorder Act

Elsewhere

All sorts of information on this bill is available at LEGISinfo, an excellent resource from Parliament. You can also read the full text of the bill.

Bill numbers are reused for different bills each new session. Perhaps you were looking for one of these other S-203s:

S-203 (2020) Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act

S-203 (2019) An Act to amend the National Capital Act (buildings or works of national significance)

S-203 (2015) Law Ending the Captivity of Whales and Dolphins Act

S-203 (2013) An Act to amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and the Criminal Code (mental health treatment)

Debate Summary

This is a computer-generated summary of the speeches below. Usually it’s accurate, but every now and then it’ll contain inaccuracies or total fabrications.

Bill S-203 proposes a federal framework on autism spectrum disorder, requiring the Minister of Health to develop a national strategy. This framework would address various measures related to research, culture, and tax benefits, while also establishing accountability mechanisms through mandated reports to Parliament on the implementation and effectiveness of the framework. The bill emphasizes the need for collaboration among federal ministers, civil society groups, provinces, and territories.

Conservative

NDP

Supports national framework: The NDP supports a national framework for autism spectrum disorder to ensure timely and equitable access to screening, diagnosis, and financial support for individuals and caregivers. The party wants to address challenges such as co-occurring conditions and the unique needs of rural and remote communities to build inclusive communities across the country.
Importance of public education: The NDP emphasizes the crucial role of public education in raising awareness and fostering curiosity about autism spectrum disorder, and opening doors for more inclusive communities. The party supports education to overcome challenges and remove barriers to support.
Focus on rural communities: The NDP recognizes the challenges faced by rural and remote communities in providing adequate services and support for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families. The party aims to address these disparities and ensure equitable access to resources, regardless of location.
Nothing without us: The NDP will ensure that the framework prioritizes the voices and experiences of individuals living with autism and those supporting them, operating on the principle of “nothing without us when it is about us.”

Bloc

Supports bill, with amendments: The Bloc Québécois will vote in favor of Bill S-203 at second reading so that it can go to committee and be amended in such a way as to respect Quebec's jurisdiction. They believe the federal government can play a role in supporting autistic Canadians and their families.
Respect Quebec's jurisdiction: The Bloc Québécois is adamant that delivery of health services is not a federal jurisdiction and refuses to allow the federal government to impose its standards on Quebec and the provinces. They will seek to amend Bill S-203 to ensure that it respects Quebec's and the provinces' areas of jurisdiction.
Increase health transfers: The Bloc Québécois emphasizes that timely access to screening and diagnosis for autism spectrum disorder is not under federal jurisdiction. The best thing the federal government can do is increase health transfers from 22% to 35%.
Recognize Quebec's efforts: Quebec already offers a wide range of services for individuals with autism through its social safety net. The Bloc Québécois hopes that the strategy will recognize these efforts, and that Quebec will not be penalized for its generous social benefits.

Liberal

Supports national framework: The member proudly supports Bill S-203, which calls for a national framework to better support autistic individuals in Canada by bringing together territories, provinces, communities, stakeholders, and people. He believes it exemplifies parliamentarians working together and transcends partisanship.
Focus on adulthood transition: The bill emphasizes strategies to better position autistic individuals as they transition into adulthood, leveraging existing supports and sharing best practices.
Need for coordination: A national framework would help coordinate efforts across provinces, territories, organizations, parents, and advocacy groups to improve the lives of autistic individuals.

Was this summary helpful and accurate?

Federal Framework on Autism Spectrum Disorder ActPrivate Members' Business

December 1st, 2022 / 6:30 p.m.

The Assistant Deputy Speaker Carol Hughes

The question is on the motion.

If a member of a recognized party present in the House wishes that the motion be carried or carried on division or wishes to request a recorded division, I would invite them to rise and indicate it to the Chair.

Federal Framework on Autism Spectrum Disorder ActPrivate Members' Business

December 1st, 2022 / 6:35 p.m.

Conservative

Mike Lake Conservative Edmonton—Wetaskiwin, AB

Madam Speaker, I request that it be carried on division.

Federal Framework on Autism Spectrum Disorder ActPrivate Members' Business

December 1st, 2022 / 6:35 p.m.

The Assistant Deputy Speaker Carol Hughes

I declare the motion carried on division. Accordingly, the bill stands referred to the Standing Committee on Health.

(Bill read the second time and referred to a committee)