S-203Federal Framework on Autism Spectrum Disorder Act
An Act respecting a federal framework on autism spectrum disorder
Senate public bill, introduced in the Senate on November 24, 2021
- Status
- Became law on March 30, 2023 · S.C. 2023, c. 2
- Sponsor
- Leo HousakosSenator
- Senator
What it does
Requires the health minister to develop and table a federal framework on autism spectrum disorder, covering access, support, research, education and accountability.
What it does
- Requires the Minister of Health to develop a federal framework on autism spectrum disorder.
- Identifies measures for timely and equitable screening and diagnosis, financial support, caregiver support, and a national research network.
- Includes public awareness campaigns and accessible, culturally relevant information on evidence-based support, including effective and harmful treatments.
- Requires the minister to consult federal and provincial ministers, stakeholders and people with lived experience, and to hold at least one conference within 12 months.
- Requires the framework to be tabled in both Houses within 18 months, published online, and followed by a report within five years on what was implemented and why any measures were not.
Who it affects
- Autistic Canadians
- Families of autistic people
- Caregivers
- Health ministers and departments
- Provincial governments
- Service providers
- Researchers
- Autism organisations in Indigenous communities
Background
The bill says the framework is meant to support autistic Canadians, their families and their caregivers. It also requires the Minister of Health to consult federal and provincial ministers, stakeholders and people with lived experience.
Where it is
Senate
First reading
Completed.
Second reading
Completed.
Committee
Completed.
Report stage
Completed.
Third reading
Completed.
House of Commons
First reading
Completed.
Second reading
Completed.
Committee
Completed.
Report stage
Completed.
Third reading
Completed.
Royal assent
Royal assent
Completed.
Introduced by a senator. If the Senate passes it, it goes to the House of Commons, where an MP must agree to sponsor it. How a bill becomes law
How the House voted
No recorded votes yet
What MPs said
Each party’s first speech on this bill in the House, from Hansard. Excerpts are the speaker’s opening sentences, unedited.
LiberalMichael Coteau· December 1, 2022
“I am proud to stand here today on behalf of the residents of Don Valley East to join my colleague in supporting Bill S-203. I was very proud to be asked to join this coalition of great parliamentarians who are working hard in the Senate and in the House of Commons to really move an issue forward that is long overdue.”
Read the full speech on openparliament.caConservativeMike Lake· December 1, 2022
“,seconded by the member for Don Valley East, moved that Bill S-203, An Act respecting a federal framework on autism spectrum disorder, be read the second time and referred to a committee. He said: Madam Speaker, it is an absolute pleasure to stand here to discuss Bill S-203, which came to us from the Senate.”
Read the full speech on openparliament.caBlocAndréanne Larouche· December 1, 2022
“Today I am talking about Bill S-203, which would provide for the development of a federal framework designed to support autistic Canadians, their families and their caregivers. It directs the Minister of Health to develop a federal framework on autism spectrum disorder.”
Read the full speech on openparliament.caNDPRachel Blaney· December 1, 2022
“I am honoured to speak to Bill S-203, respecting a federal framework on autism spectrum disorder. Before I speak about this really important bill, I want to recognize that today is my grandson's birthday.”
Read the full speech on openparliament.ca
Read the source
LEGISinfo status: Royal assent received. Bill data from LEGISinfo, votes from openparliament.ca and the House of Commons. Last updated October 13, 2026.