LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Senate on Wednesday adopted Sen. Michael Webber’s resolution to celebrate Autism Acceptance Month throughout the state.
“This is about taking time to celebrate these wonderful individuals and affirm our commitment to support their care and success as we also recognize the important work ahead on this issue and the incredible accomplishments we’ve experienced,” said Webber, R-Rochester Hills, who serves as co-chair of the Michigan Legislature Autism Advocates Caucus.
“Although its effects are deeply personal for some of us, autism touches many of us and knows no political or social boundaries. My son was diagnosed with autism at 3 years old. The diagnosis came as a shock to our family. It took time to understand what it really meant. Embracing autism meant learning everything we could about our son’s needs. It meant finding the right services and therapies to help him and connecting with families further along the same path.”
Senate Resolution 106 declares April as Autism Acceptance Month in the state of Michigan.
An estimated 1 in 36 children and 1 in 44 adults have autism, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Autism Spectrum Disorder, commonly referred to as autism, is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication and repetitive behaviors that can range from mild to severe and may require a wide variety of support services.
Webber has also introduced Senate Bills 103 and 104 with Sen. Sam Singh, D-East Lansing, to help limit misdiagnoses and provide more accurate care for individuals living with autism.
“This bipartisan legislation would bring Michigan up to par with other states in providing the most modern diagnostic and care standards as we continue to grow in our understanding of autism,” Webber said. “Current outdated policies lead to more people being misdiagnosed, which can result in limited access to care or the wrong care plan altogether. I encourage the Senate to take up these bills to help improve care for those with autism.”
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