WHEREAS, Autism is a lifelong, neurological disorder that affects a person's communication skills and ability to form relationships with others; and
     WHEREAS, Autism was first described by Dr. Leo Kanner in 1943; and
     WHEREAS, Children and adults with autism have difficulties in verbal and nonverbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities; and
     WHEREAS, Symptoms may include deficient or delayed communication, sensory integration difficulties, unusual reactions to normal stimuli, and inability to imitate others; and
     WHEREAS, Characteristic behaviors of autism may or may not appear in infancy (18 to 24 months), but usually become obvious during early childhood (24 months to 6 years); and
     WHEREAS, Autism is four times more prevalent in boys than girls; and
     WHEREAS, While there are no medical tests to diagnose autism, research indicates that individuals with autism can have dramatically better outcomes with early detection; and
     WHEREAS, Educational programs have significantly improved the outcomes of children with autism, helping them become productive adult members of society; and
     WHEREAS, The governor has proclaimed April 2003 as Autism Awareness Month;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate encourage public schools to pursue early detection of autism, increase public awareness of autism, and provide educational opportunities for children with autism through individualized education plans allowing these special children to be successful learners; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to the Superintendent of Public Instruction, the Department of Social and Health Services, and all public school districts.