Rep. Tlaib offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 336.  

            A resolution to express support for the equal rights protection of individuals with autism spectrum disorder and for the efforts to improve awareness and understanding of autism.

            Whereas, Growing numbers of children and adults are affected with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This neurological disability can impact a person in various social, communication and behavioral ways that may have a detrimental impact on the development of social skills and behavior; and

            Whereas, A lack of understanding of the characteristics of ASD leads to misunderstanding and often marginalizing of a child or adult with this condition. The proliferating diagnosis of ASD has caused this disorder to be ranked by the advocacy organization Autism Speaks as the fastest growing serious developmental disability in the United States; and

            Whereas, Numerous efforts to support individuals in Michigan have been made in recent years including legislation enacted in 2012 to require insurance coverage of autism therapy treatment both in the commercial market and in the Medicaid program. In the same year, the Michigan Autism Council was established by Executive Order to adopt and implement the Michigan Autism Spectrum Disorder State Plan; and

Whereas, While we applaud the strides made thus far, we must continue efforts to support the protection of equal rights and to provide greater assistance for people with ASD and their families; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we express support for the protection of equal rights for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and the efforts to improve awareness and understanding of autism; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Michigan Department of Community Health and the Michigan Autism Council.