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PROCLAIMING "APRIL 2001 AUTISM AWARNESS MONTH" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

WHEREAS, Autism is the third most common developmental disability in the United States affecting 1 in 500 persons; and

WHEREAS, The State of Rhode Island has experienced an increase in the incidence of Autism in excess of 600% in the past 6 years among public school children; and

WHEREAS, Autism is a neurological disorder affecting an individual's abilities in relating, communicating and reasoning making it difficult for them to relate to others and the world around them; and

WHEREAS, Autism knows no racial, ethnic or social boundaries and is four times more prevalent in boys than in girls; and

WHEREAS, There is not yet an identifiable cause or cure for Autism; and

WHEREAS, Unlocking Autism is a nonprofit organization that seeks to bring greater awareness to Autism Spectrum Disorders including Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) and Asperger's Disorder; and

WHEREAS, On April 27, 2001, Rhode Island state representatives from Unlocking Autism will attend a National Autism Awareness rally in Washington, DC, with a local rally in Providence on the same day; and

WHEREAS, Over the past several years, significant progress has been made in the areas of research, diagnostic practices and therapies for individuals with Autism; and

WHEREAS, It is the intent of the State of Rhode Island to recognize the achievements made by various individuals and agencies across the state who have improved the quality of life for those with Autism and their families, and to promote the continuation of their efforts through greater awareness, understanding and knowledge of this disorder; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations hereby proclaim "April 2001 as Autism Awareness Month" in the State of Rhode Island; and proclaim April 27^th, 2001 as "Autism Awareness Day" in the State of Rhode Island.