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8 LONG TITLE
9 General Description:
10 This concurrent resolution designates "Autism After 21 Day."
11 Highlighted Provisions:
12 This resolution:
13 ▸ calls attention to the many adults on the autism spectrum for whom federally
14 mandated services have ended;
15 ▸ recognizes the limited opportunities for adults on the autism spectrum and the need
16 for residential services; and
17 ▸ designates April 21 as "Autism After 21 Day."
18 Special Clauses:
19 None
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21 Be it resolved by the Legislature of the state of Utah, the Governor concurring therein:
22 WHEREAS, every 11 minutes a child is born in the United States who will be
23 diagnosed with autism;
24 WHEREAS, as things stand today, those autistic children will spend the majority of
25 their lives as adults in a world of few opportunities;
26 WHEREAS, in the next four years, 200,000 people on the autism spectrum will turn 21,
27 which is the age at which federally mandated services end;
28 WHEREAS, those autistic adults will join the millions of adults with disabilities who
29 face decades-long waitlists for residential services, and little to no opportunity for employment
30 or social interaction;
31 WHEREAS, some adults on the autism spectrum need few, if any, supports, and we
32 continue to encourage their self-determination and independence;
33 WHEREAS, our attention is needed to acknowledge the many adults on the autism
34 spectrum who are navigating adulthood and wanting to reach their full potential; and
35 WHEREAS, autistic adults deserve access to the goals established by the Americans
36 With Disabilities Act, including equal opportunity, full participation, independent living, and
37 economic self-sufficiency:
38 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Legislature of the state of Utah, the
39 Governor concurring therein, designates April 21 as "Autism After 21 Day."
40 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be sent to the state
41 legislatures of the other 49 states and members of Utah's congressional delegation.