Bill Text: MI HR0049 | 2019-2020 | 100th Legislature | Enrolled
Bill Title: A resolution to declare April 2, 2019, as Autism Awareness Day in the state of Michigan.
Spectrum: Slight Partisan Bill (Democrat 16-6)
Status: (Passed) 2019-03-21 - Adopted [HR0049 Detail]
Download: Michigan-2019-HR0049-Enrolled.html
Reps. Frederick, Liberati, Bollin, Calley, Cherry, Chirkun, Crawford, Hood, Hope, Jones, Kahle, Kuppa, Love, Manoogian, Shannon, Sneller, Sowerby, Stone, Warren, Webber, Whitsett and Wittenberg offered the following resolution:
House Resolution No. 49.
A resolution to declare April 2, 2019, as Autism Awareness Day in the state of Michigan.
Whereas, Autism is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain and impacts development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills; and
Whereas, The demands of living with a person with autism are great and families frequently experience significant financial costs for specialized education and support services. The uniqueness of each individual with autism makes the experience of living with autism different for each family; and
Whereas, Autism is a lifelong condition and the necessary support and treatment changes as people on the spectrum move through major life phases. Their quality of life depends not only upon the foundation that is provided in childhood, but on ongoing supports that are specific to the educational, medical, social, recreational, family, and employment needs of the individual; and
Whereas, Autism knows no racial, ethnic, social boundaries, family income, lifestyle, or educational levels, and can affect any family and any child. Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States and it is estimated that it is prevalent in 1 in every 59 children under the age of 8 and is four times more likely to occur in boys than in girls; and
Whereas, Early intervention services are the primary therapeutic option for young people with autism and that early intervention significantly improves the outcome for people with autism and can reduce the level of funding and services needed to treat people with autism later in life; and
Whereas, New opportunities are being created through collaborative efforts of family members, professionals, and all levels of government to bring about significant changes in the public perception of young people and adults with developmental disabilities, including those with autism, opening new doors to independent and productive lives; and
Whereas, The Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council supports people with developmental disabilities, including those with autism, to achieve their life’s dreams and ensure that all citizens of Michigan have the opportunities and support to achieve their full potential; and
Whereas, Numerous efforts to support individuals in Michigan have been made in recent years, including legislation enacted in 2012 to require insurance coverage of autism therapy treatment. Furthermore, the Michigan Autism Council was established by Executive Order to adopt and implement the Michigan Autism Spectrum Disorder Plan; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare April 2, 2019, as Autism Awareness Day in the state of Michigan.
