SR 1107: Autism Acceptance Month; recognize April 2026; World Autism Awareness Day; recognize April 2, 2026
Enrolled version, the latest LegiScan holds · Last action April 2, 2026 · Passed
The text as LegiScan holds it, read from the PDF the legislature publishes with its margin line numbers, running heads, and page footers removed. Line breaks are joined into paragraphs here; no word is changed.
Senate Resolution 1107
By: Senator Strickland of the 42nd
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing April 2026 as Autism Acceptance Month and April 2, 2026, as World Autism Awareness Day; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex, lifelong developmental condition that affects individuals in varying ways, influencing social interaction, communication, and behavior across a broad spectrum of strengths and challenges; and
WHEREAS, autism can be characterized by persistent differences in communication and social interaction, including nonverbal communication challenges, difficulty interpreting social cues, and repetitive behaviors or intense interests, along with unique sensory processing needs; and
WHEREAS, early screening and intervention are critical for children with autism, as children diagnosed by age four are more likely to receive necessary services that can significantly improve long-term outcomes; and
WHEREAS, numerous evidence-based interventions—including applied behavior analysis (ABA), speech therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills training—have proven effective in promoting independence and reducing disruptive behaviors; and
WHEREAS, complementary therapies such as art, music, and animal-assisted programs have also shown promise in enhancing communication and social engagement for individuals with autism; and
WHEREAS, during the 2026 regular session, the Georgia General Assembly has passed two pieces of legislation, SB 433, "Rio's Law," and SB 402, to further support Georgia's autistic community; and
WHEREAS, Autism Acceptance Month, observed annually in April, promotes greater understanding and inclusion of individuals with autism, shifting the narrative from awareness to acceptance and fostering more supportive, affirming communities; and
WHEREAS, World Autism Awareness Day, held on April 2 each year, provides an international platform to recognize the contributions and rights of individuals with autism as well as to promote global dialogue on inclusivity and support systems.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body recognize April 2026 as Autism Acceptance Month and April 2, 2026, as World Autism Awareness Day as well as commend all organizations, advocates, and families working to create a more inclusive world for individuals with autism. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the press.