British Columbia’s Autism Funding Policies

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects one out of 100 children worldwide (World Health Organization, 2023). In Canada, public debates about policies related to autism funding have been ongoing. This research paper provides an analysis of the autism funding policies in British Columbia from inception to present day. Using an economic, social, and educational lens, this paper will examine the progress that has been made to support children living with ASD over two decades and the issues that exist within current autism funding policies that require addressing to improve access and quality of care, support services, and education for those with ASD.