SENATE MEMORIAL 9

50th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - first session, 2011

INTRODUCED BY

Dede Feldman

A MEMORIAL

REQUESTING THAT FEBRUARY 21, 2011 BE DECLARED "AUTISM DAY" IN THE SENATE AND THAT THE NEW MEXICO CHAPTER OF THE AUTISM SOCIETY OF AMERICA BE RECOGNIZED FOR ITS WORK AND ADVOCACY.

     WHEREAS, one of every one hundred ten children born this year will be later diagnosed as having autism spectrum disorder; and

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

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

     WHEREAS, parents, professionals and volunteers devote countless hours to improving the quality of life of individuals who have autism spectrum disorders; and

     WHEREAS, early intervention, evidence-based practices and proven supports greatly improve the outcomes and reduce the lifelong costs of care of people who have autism spectrum disorder; and

     WHEREAS, the autism society of America was founded in 1965, and the New Mexico autism society was founded in 1968, whose mission is to improve the lives of all persons affected by autism through advocacy, education, support services and the promotion of research; and

     WHEREAS, the New Mexico autism society advocates and works for better state and federal legislation to assist individuals with autism and their families; and

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

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that the New Mexico chapter of the autism society of America be recognized and that February 21, 2011 be declared "Autism Day" in the senate.

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