Securing Medicare coverage for ABA treatment is an essential first step but is not in and of itself enough.  Canadians with a disability regardless of which one need more legal protection than exists today. The 2004 Supreme Court of Canada decision in the Auton case effectively neutered the Section 15 equality provisions of the Charter for all Canadians with disabilities.

First and foremost, we need a Canadians with Disabilities Act which would give practical force and effect to the equality provisions of the Charter. The existing American equivalent of such legislation, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has revolutionized disability equality rights in the US.

Also needed is an Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), something which in the US effectively protects children with disabilities while in the education system.

Third, the Mental Health Parity Act (MHPA), a law making it illegal for healthcare insurers, such as provincial Medicare plans, to discriminate respecting the provision of  treatment for persons with mental illness or disabilities.

Today in BC, a campaign being led by Civil Rights Now! is underway to obtain similar legislation.  To get involved, contact the CRN.