HOUSE MEMORIAL 58

52nd legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - first session, 2015

INTRODUCED BY

Georgene Louis

A MEMORIAL

DECLARING FEBRUARY 16, 2015 "AUTISM DAY" IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

     WHEREAS, autism spectrum disorder is a neurological disorder that interferes with the development of communication and social interactions skills; and

     WHEREAS, one in every sixty-eight children born in 2015 will be later diagnosed as having an autism spectrum disorder; and

     WHEREAS, autism affects people of all races and religions and all educational and economic levels; and

     WHEREAS, autism is a lifelong condition that presents challenges to education, employment, housing and community development; and

     WHEREAS, parents, professionals, self-advocates and volunteers devote countless hours to improve the quality of life of those affected by autism; and

     WHEREAS, early intervention, evidence-based practices and proven support systems greatly improve the outcomes and reduce the lifelong costs of care of individuals with autism and their families; and

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

     WHEREAS, the many professionals, families, advocates and volunteers working to promote a greater understanding of autism to improve the quality of life of those affected by autism are to be commended;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that February 16, 2015 be declared "Autism Day" in the house of representatives; and

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

- 2 -