Texas House Bill HR1490

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Introduced: 4/21/09
• Enrolled: 4/28/09
• Passed: 4/28/09

Caption

Recognizing April 2009 as Autism Awareness Month.

Impact

The resolution aims to enhance recognition of Autism Spectrum Disorders and their implications for individuals and families. By declaring April 2009 as Autism Awareness Month, the resolution encourages educators, parents, healthcare professionals, and the general public to improve their understanding of autism. This public recognition acts as a catalyst for ongoing education and advocacy efforts, aimed at providing better support and resources for those affected by autism. It seeks to foster an environment where early detection, intervention, and therapy are prioritized to mitigate the effects of autism on individuals and families.

Summary

House Resolution 1490 recognizes April 2009 as Autism Awareness Month in Texas. The resolution highlights the critical need for public awareness regarding Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), which are complex lifelong developmental disabilities usually appearing in the early years of life. The bill stipulates that ASD result from neurological disorders affecting brain functions, including social interactions, communication skills, and behavior patterns. It emphasizes the increasing prevalence of autism in the United States, affecting 1 in 150 individuals nationally and over 23,000 children in Texas alone, with projections suggesting a significant increase in affected individuals over the years.

Contention

While the resolution serves as a supportive gesture for increasing awareness, it may generate discussions on resource allocation for autism-related programs and services. Advocates for autism awareness may seek additional state funding for educational programs and services aimed at early intervention and support for affected families. The notion of recognition alone may not suffice for stakeholders advocating for comprehensive strategies and legislative measures that address the needs of individuals with autism more concretely.