HR0616LRB103 39312 ECR 69466 r

1
HOUSE RESOLUTION

 
2    WHEREAS, Autism is a general term used to describe a 
3complex group of neurological conditions known as autism 
4spectrum disorders, which are characterized by atypical 
5development in socialization, communication, and behavior, 
6making it challenging for those with autism to relate to the 
7world around them; and
 
8    WHEREAS, According to the Centers for Disease Control and 
9Prevention, more than 3.5 million Americans live with an 
10autism spectrum disorder, and one out of every 59 American 
11children born today will be diagnosed with autism; and
 
12    WHEREAS, Approximately two-thirds of children with autism 
13between the ages of 6 and 15 have been the victims of bullying; 
14and
 
15    WHEREAS, Over the past several years, significant progress 
16has been made in the areas of research, diagnostic practice, 
17and therapy for individuals with autism; early and appropriate 
18intervention can result in significant improvements in quality 
19of life, independent functioning, and a reduction in care 
20costs; and
 
21    WHEREAS, It is imperative that Illinois adopt public 
 
 
HR0616- 2 -LRB103 39312 ECR 69466 r

1policies that reduce the burdens on families caring for people 
2with autism and that allow people with autism to reach their 
3full potential and self-sufficiency; therefore, be it
 
4    RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE 
5HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that 
6we declare April 2024 as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month 
7in the State of Illinois to help increase public awareness of 
8the need to support individuals with autism and the family 
9members, medical professionals, and human services 
10professionals who help care for individuals with autism.