PRINTER'S NO. 417
THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF PENNSYLVANIA
SENATE RESOLUTION
No.
39
Session of
2023
INTRODUCED BY COMITTA, KEARNEY, HAYWOOD, CAPPELLETTI,
TARTAGLIONE, SANTARSIERO, FONTANA, HUGHES, SCHWANK, LAUGHLIN,
BOSCOLA, COSTA, BARTOLOTTA, COLLETT, MILLER, DILLON, KANE,
L. WILLIAMS AND STREET, MARCH 14, 2023
REFERRED TO RULES AND EXECUTIVE NOMINATIONS, MARCH 14, 2023
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing the month of April 2023 as "Autism Acceptance Month"
in Pennsylvania.
WHEREAS, Autism spectrum disorder is a complex disability
requiring greater recognition, understanding and acceptance to
ensure that all individuals living with autism spectrum disorder
are accurately diagnosed and appropriately supported throughout
their lives; and
WHEREAS, Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental
disability resulting in varying levels of impairment of an
individual's ability to learn, develop healthy interactive
behaviors and understand verbal, nonverbal and reciprocal
communication; and
WHEREAS, Autism is defined by a certain set of behaviors and
is a "spectrum disorder" that affects individuals differently
and to varying degrees; and
WHEREAS, There is no known single cause of autism, but
increased awareness, funding and acceptance can help families
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today; and
WHEREAS, Although a cure for autism spectrum disorder has not
been found, individuals living with autism spectrum disorder can
be assisted in reaching their greatest potential through
accurate early diagnosis, appropriate education and
intervention; and
WHEREAS, According to the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, approximately 1 in 44 American children are living
with autism spectrum disorder; and
WHEREAS, The number of adults living with autism spectrum
disorder is expected to increase dramatically over the next few
years as adolescents age into adulthood; and
WHEREAS, The Department of Human Services created the Office
of Developmental Programs, which includes the Bureau of Autism
Services, to provide expertise and support for all agencies
serving Pennsylvanians living with autism spectrum disorder;
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate recognize the month of April 2023
as "Autism Acceptance Month" in Pennsylvania and urge the
observance throughout this Commonwealth for the benefit of all
individuals living with autism spectrum disorder and their
families.
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