Ottawa to create autism framework

The federal health minister will be required to develop a framework on autism spectrum disorder, including identifying ways to give financial support to autistic people, within the next 18 months.

A Senate bill calling for such a framework received royal assent on Thursday after clearing the House of Commons with unanimous support this week.

Conservative MP Mike Lake, an advocate for such a framework, delivered a speech this week about the triumphs and struggles of his child, Jaden, and the importance of embracing people who have autism.

The bill requires the health minister to table a framework that finds ways to improve access to screening, diagnosis and financial support and establish a national research network.