HR0821LRB104 21516 ECR 36860 r

1
HOUSE RESOLUTION

 
2    WHEREAS, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a 
3neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges with 
4social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive 
5behaviors, making it challenging for those with autism to 
6relate to the world around them; and
 
7    WHEREAS, According to the Centers for Disease Control and 
8Prevention, approximately one in 31 children, about 3.2%, in 
9the U.S. has ASD, and one in 45 adults in the U.S. has autism, 
10equating into approximately 5.4 to 5.5 million adults living 
11with autism and representing over 2% of the adult population 
12in the U.S.; and
 
13    WHEREAS, Over the past several years, significant progress 
14has been made in the areas of research, diagnostic practice, 
15and therapy for individuals with autism; early and appropriate 
16intervention can result in significant improvements in quality 
17of life, independent functioning, and a reduction in care 
18costs; and
 
19    WHEREAS, It is imperative that Illinois adopt public 
20policies that reduce the burdens on families caring for people 
21with autism and that allow people with autism to reach their 
22full potential and self-sufficiency; and
 
 
 
HR0821- 2 -LRB104 21516 ECR 36860 r

1    WHEREAS, The 104th General Assembly, recognizing that 
2those policies will help those with autism and their families, 
3has formed the bipartisan, bicameral Illinois Legislative 
4Neurodiversity Caucus, a first-of-its-kind caucus in Illinois 
5history that will include input from the entire State; and
 
6    WHEREAS, The work done by the Illinois Legislative 
7Neurodiversity Caucus will focus on the four cornerstones of 
8support, access, resources, and education; and
 
9    WHEREAS, The Illinois Legislative Neurodiversity Caucus 
10will include and welcome input from the neurodivergent, 
11healthcare professionals, employers, educators, advocates, 
12caregivers, and families; therefore, be it
 
13    RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE 
14HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that 
15we declare April 2026 as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month 
16in the State of Illinois to help increase public awareness of 
17the need to support individuals with autism and the family 
18members, medical professionals, and human services 
19professionals who help care for individuals with autism.