SENATE MEMORIAL 4

50th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - second session, 2012

INTRODUCED BY

Dede Feldman

A MEMORIAL

DECLARING JANUARY 18, 2012 AS "AUTISM DAY" IN THE SENATE AND RECOGNIZING THE NEW MEXICO AUTISM SOCIETY FOR ITS LONG-STANDING WORK AND ADVOCACY.

     WHEREAS, autism disorders are the fastest growing developmental disability in the world today; and

     WHEREAS, one of every one hundred ten children will be diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder; and

     WHEREAS, autism spectrum disorders affect a person's communication and social interactions; and

     WHEREAS, autism is a lifelong condition that varies in its presentation from severe to mildly impairing; and

     WHEREAS, the cause of autism remains unknown; and

     WHEREAS, treatment for autism is effective when it is highly individualized; and

     WHEREAS, New Mexico has a deficit of service providers and people trained in the treatment and care of persons with autism; and

     WHEREAS, New Mexico should strive to improve systems of care for children and adults with autism; and

     WHEREAS, the state recognizes the valuable contributions to its communities, businesses, technologies and cultures made by people with autism; and

     WHEREAS, the New Mexico autism society has been advocating for people with autism and their families for over forty years;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that January 18, 2012 be declared "Autism Day" in the senate; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the senate recognize the New Mexico autism society for its efforts in service of people with autism and their families; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this memorial be transmitted to the New Mexico autism society.

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