Maryland Senate Bill SJ1

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/22
• Refer: 1/12/22

Caption

Apraxia Awareness Day

Impact

The resolution is significant as it highlights the challenges faced by children with childhood apraxia of speech, which can lead to substantial difficulties in communication and academic performance. By designating a specific day for awareness, SJ1 aims to mobilize community efforts to provide essential services and support systems for affected children, thus potentially alleviating future educational disadvantages and promoting better communication skills.

Summary

Senate Joint Resolution 1 (SJ1) seeks to commemorate Apraxia Awareness Day on May 14 by encouraging awareness and understanding of childhood apraxia of speech within communities across Maryland. Apraxia is a neurological speech disorder that affects one in a thousand children, making it difficult for them to learn to speak. The resolution emphasizes the importance of raising public awareness about this disorder to improve support for affected families and the professionals assisting them.

Contention

While the resolution primarily aims to raise awareness rather than enact legislation, it serves as a crucial reminder of the need for focused attention on speech disorders like apraxia. Advocates for children with disabilities may view this as a step towards amplifying necessary discussions around funding and resources for speech therapy and educational support. However, the effectiveness of such awareness efforts relies heavily on the community's engagement and the prioritization of these issues within local educational and health systems.