New Jersey-2016-AJR54-Chaptered

A Joint Resolution designating April 2nd of each year as "World Autism Awareness Day."

Whereas, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that impairs social interaction, communication, and behavior, and often requires extensive family and community support and specialized intervention to lessen the negative effects of these deficits; and

Whereas, Autism manifests uniquely in each individual and, as such, is a "spectrum" disorder ranging from severe to mild; and

Whereas, Behavioral recovery and significant improvement are often possible if an individual with autism receives an early diagnosis and evidence-based treatment; and

Whereas, According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, autism affects one out of 68 children in the United States, and one out of 41 children in New Jersey - one of the highest rates in the nation; and

Whereas, Autism occurs regardless of race, religion, socio-economic status, or geography, and a child is diagnosed with autism every eleven minutes; and

Whereas, On December 18, 2007, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted Resolution No. 62/139, designating April 2nd of each year as "World Autism Awareness Day" and encouraging all United Nations member states to take measures to raise awareness about autism, early diagnosis, and early behavioral intervention; and

Whereas, The aims for World Autism Awareness Day are to inform the general public about the global health crisis of autism, stress the importance of early diagnosis and early intervention, and celebrate the unique talents and abilities of individuals with autism; now, therefore,

Be It Resolved by the Senate and General Assembly of the State of New Jersey:

1. The second day of April in each year is designated as "World Autism Awareness Day" to raise awareness of the widespread nature of autism, encourage early diagnosis and treatment, and celebrate the unique talents and abilities of individuals with autism.

2. The Governor is respectfully requested to issue a proclamation recognizing April 2nd of each year as "World Autism Awareness Day" and calling upon pubic officials and the citizens of New Jersey to observe the day with appropriate activities and programs.

3. This joint resolution shall take effect immediately.

Designates April 2nd of each year as "World Autism Awareness Day."