Brazil proposes expanded rights for autistic adults and adolescents

A new legislative proposal, Bill 5538/26, aims to strengthen the protection and inclusion of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) during adolescence and adulthood. Authored by Deputy Aureo Ribeiro, the bill seeks to amend the Berenice Piana Law and would be named the Fernanda Fialho Law in honor of an activist who highlighted the challenges faced by women with late diagnoses and atypical motherhood.

The project addresses a gap in current public policies, which Ribeiro notes primarily focus on childhood. Key provisions include guidelines for labor market integration, comprehensive mental health care, and suicide prevention measures. To support those with sensory overload, the bill proposes adapted communication channels, such as text or chat-based support as an alternative to voice calls.

Additionally, the proposal mandates the training of health and social assistance professionals and calls for intensified educational campaigns between World Suicide Prevention Day and World Mental Health Day. Implementation would involve cooperation between federal, state, and municipal governments. If granted urgency status, the bill could move directly to a plenary vote before requiring final approval from both the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate.