HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

149th GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 9

RECOGNIZING APRIL 2017 AS AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH.

WHEREAS, autism spectrum disorder, the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States, affecting more than three million people, is an urgent public health crisis that demands a national response.  According to Autism Delaware, in 1995 the prevalence of autism was 1 in every 2,500 births, today it is approximately 1 in 68; and

WHEREAS, autism is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the human brain, and can affect anyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or socioeconomic background.  Symptoms and characteristics of autism may present themselves in a variety of ways, and are different for each person affected.  Autism can result in significant lifelong impairment of an individual’s ability to learn, develop healthy interactive behaviors, and understand verbal as well as non-verbal communication; and

WHEREAS, the effort to address autism spectrum disorder continues; doctors, therapists, and educators can help persons with autism overcome or adjust to its challenges and provide early, accurate diagnosis and the resulting appropriate education, intervention, and therapy that is vital to future growth and development; and

WHEREAS, persons living with autism spectrum disorder should have access to the lifelong care and services needed to pursue the full measure of personal happiness and achieve their greatest potential.

NOW, THEREFORE:

BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives of the 149 ^th General Assembly of the State of Delaware that April 2017 is recognized as Autism Awareness Month;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the 149 ^th General Assembly encourages all citizens to raise public awareness of autism spectrum disorder, as well as to increase knowledge of the programs and services that have been developed and are available to help support individuals and families affected by autism every day.

SYNOPSIS

This Resolution recognizes April 2017 as Autism Awareness Month.