WHEREAS, The Supreme Court of the United States, in its
Olmstead decision, affirmed the right of individuals with
disabilities, including intellectual disabilities and other
developmental disabilities, to receive community-based services
as an alternative to institutional care; and
WHEREAS, In fiscal year 2015-2016, more than 89,000 children,
including significant numbers of children who have an
intellectual disability, received early intervention services,
and an additional 13,745 individuals with an intellectual
disability continue to wait for services; and
WHEREAS, In fiscal year 2016-2017, 57,495 Pennsylvanians with
an intellectual disability received services and supports within
the community; and
WHEREAS, These services and supports ensure that all
residents of this Commonwealth who have an intellectual
disability have the opportunity to participate in the range of
life experiences we all enjoy in our homes and communities, such
as inclusion in schools, neighborhoods, businesses and places of
worship; and
WHEREAS, Public awareness and education improve the
community's understanding of intellectual disabilities and the
services and supports needed to meet the specific needs and
abilities of people with an intellectual disability; therefore
be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives recognize the
month of March 2018 as "Intellectual Disability Awareness Month"
in Pennsylvania and acknowledge the important role of public
awareness and education in improving the lives of individuals
with an intellectual disability; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives express
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