HR1885: HR1885 Autism Acceptance Month; 04/26; World Autism Awareness Day; 04/02/26; Connor Tomlinson; work advocating for the autism community; recognize

26 LC 112 4012 House Resolution 1885 By: Representatives McDonald III of the 26th, Barrett of the 24th, Jasperse of the 11th, Jones of the 25th, Clark of the 100th, and others A RESOLUTION Recognizing April 2026 as Autism Acceptance Month and April 2, 2026, as World Autism1 Awareness Day and commending Connor Tomlinson for his work advocating for the autism2 community; and for other purposes.3 WHEREAS, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex, lifelong developmental condition4 that affects individuals in varying ways, influencing social interaction, communication, and5 behavior across a broad spectrum of strengths and challenges; and6 WHEREAS, autism can be characterized by persistent differences in communication and7 social interaction, including nonverbal communication challenge s, difficulty interpreting8 social cues, and repetitive behaviors or intense interests, alo ng with unique sensory9 processing needs; and10 WHEREAS, early screening and intervention are critical for children with autism, as children11 diagnosed by age four are more likely to receive necessary serv ices that can significantly12 improve long-term outcomes; and13 H. R. 1885 - 1 - 26 LC 112 4012 WHEREAS, numerous evidence-based interventions—including applied behavior analysis14 (ABA), speech therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills training—have proven15 effective in promoting independence and reducing disruptive behaviors; and16 WHEREAS, complementary therapies such as art, music, and animal-assisted programs have17 also shown promise in enhancing communication and social engagement for individuals with18 autism; and19 WHEREAS, Autism Acceptance Month, observed annually in April, p romotes greater20 understanding and inclusion of individuals with autism, shifting the narrative from awareness21 to acceptance and fostering more supportive, affirming communities; and22 WHEREAS, World Autism Awareness Day, held on April 2 each year, provides an23 international platform to recognize the contributions and rights of individuals with autism as24 well as to promote global dialogue on inclusivity and support systems; and25 WHEREAS, Connor Tomlinson, a resident of Forsyth County, gained popularity as a cast26 member on the Netflix show Love on the Spectrum, a show that follows people on the autism27 spectrum who are looking for love; and28 WHEREAS, Connor Tomlinson has connected with millions of viewer s and has opened29 doors to careers in media for individuals with autism; and30 WHEREAS, Connor has used his platform to exercise his right to advocate for safer31 interactions with law enforcement and individuals with autism in Georgia.32 H. R. 1885 - 2 - 26 LC 112 4012 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that33 the members of this body recognize April 2026 as Autism Acceptance Month and April 2,34 2026, as World Autism Awareness Day as well as commend all organizations, advocates, and35 families working to create a more inclusive world for individuals with autism and Connor36 Tomlinson for his advocacy, public awareness efforts, and work t o i m p r o v e s a f e t y a n d37 understanding for individuals with autism in Georgia.38 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized39 and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution avai lable for distribution to the40 public and the press.41 H. R. 1885 - 3 -