Expressing support for the designation of September 19, 2026, as "Black Autism Acceptance and Awareness Day".
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 1050
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Health
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-02-10: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- Last Updated
- 2026-02-19T16:17:21Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This resolution expresses support for designating September 19, 2026, as "Black Autism Acceptance and Awareness Day" to highlight racial inequities in autism diagnosis, treatment, and support for Black individuals.
Key Provisions
- Lists findings on disparities, including higher rates of misdiagnosis, underdiagnosis, late diagnosis, limited access to specialty care, underrepresentation in research, and marginalization in healthcare for Black autistic individuals.
- Notes increased risks for Black autistic youth in law enforcement interactions and school discipline, such as suspensions and expulsions.
- Encourages Americans to celebrate the day by raising awareness of inequalities, promoting understanding and inclusion, amplifying Black autistic voices, and advocating for equity.
- Recognizes the need for culturally competent care, bias reduction, community building, equitable resources, and support extending into adulthood.
- Affirms that neurological differences like autism are natural variations to be celebrated.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
- None; this is a non-binding resolution that does not amend any statutes or create new legal requirements.
Potential Impacts
- May increase public awareness of autism-related inequities among Black communities without mandating actions by federal agencies.
- Could encourage voluntary participation by citizens, schools, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups in awareness activities.
- No direct effects on government agencies, international relations, or binding policies.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Black autistic individuals and their families.
- Autism researchers, healthcare providers, educators, and law enforcement personnel.
- Advocacy organizations focused on autism and racial equity.
- Members of Congress and the broader public interested in neurodiversity issues.
Notable Implications
- Symbolically promotes acceptance and equity without legal force, aligning with efforts to address health disparities.
- Reinforces recognition of neurodiversity as a natural human variation, with no constitutional or political conflicts identified in the text.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Lawler, Michael [R-NY-17]
Recent Actions
- 2026-02-10: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- 2026-02-10: Submitted in House
- 2026-02-10: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Expressing support for the designation of September 19, 2026, as "Black Autism Acceptance and Awareness Day". — issued 2026-02-10 — PDF (3 pages)