WHEREAS, Autism is a developmental disability that typically appears during the first two years of life and continues through an individual's lifespan, but typically is not diagnosed until after 4 years of age; and

WHEREAS, Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States, affecting over 2 million Americans and 1 in 88 babies born; and

WHEREAS, 1 in 54 boys are affected, as opposed to 1 in 252 girls; and

WHEREAS, There are many different characteristics in individuals with autism, including delayed or deficient communication, decreased or unresponsive social interaction, unusual reaction to normal stimuli, a lack of spontaneous or imaginative play, and behavioral challenges; and

WHEREAS, With aggressive and continuous therapy, some individuals can learn to acclimate to their environment and mask their symptoms; and

WHEREAS, Applied Behavior Analysis has become widely accepted among health care professionals and used as a treatment to improve a variety of skills; and

WHEREAS, Autism can create significant stress on the families of those affected by autism; and

WHEREAS, All individuals with autism should be included and regarded as valuable members of our community, provided with opportunities and supports to live, work, and play as independently as possible; and

WHEREAS, Individuals with autism, their families, caregivers, advocates, and organizations, are striving to bring about positive changes for children and adults with autism; and

WHEREAS, Through research, training, public services, support groups, advocacy, and increased awareness, we will be more accepting, inclusive, and better equipped to support the growing number of individuals with autism and their families; and

WHEREAS, April is observed nationally as Autism Awareness Month, and April 2nd has been declared World Autism Awareness Day by the United Nations General Assembly;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate honor and support individuals with autism during Autism Awareness Month; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to the Honorable Jay Inslee.

I, Hunter G. Goodman, Secretary of the Senate,

do hereby certify that this is a true and

correct copy of Senate Resolution 8637,

adopted by the Senate

March 28, 2017

HUNTER G. GOODMAN

Secretary of the Senate