Expressing support for the designation of September 19, 2025, as "Black Autism Acceptance and Awareness Day".
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 752
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Health
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-09-19: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- Last Updated
- 2026-02-19T16:17:11Z
AI-Generated Summary
Summary of H. Res. 752
Purpose of the Legislation
This resolution expresses support for designating September 19, 2025, as "Black Autism Acceptance and Awareness Day." It aims to highlight challenges faced by Black autistic individuals, including disparities in diagnosis, treatment, and support, while promoting greater understanding and equity.
Key Provisions Outlined
- The resolution includes several statements noting differences in autism experiences for Black individuals, such as higher rates of misdiagnosis or late diagnosis, underrepresentation in research, difficulties accessing care, reports of marginalization in healthcare, increased risks during law enforcement interactions, and higher rates of school discipline.
- It resolves that the House of Representatives:
- Supports the designation of the day.
- Encourages Americans to mark the day by raising awareness of inequalities, promoting inclusion, amplifying Black autistic voices, and advocating for equity.
- Recognizes the need for acceptance through culturally competent care, addressing biases, building community, and ensuring fair access to resources.
- Notes that support should extend into adulthood for Black autistic individuals.
- States that neurological differences like autism are natural variations to be celebrated.
Significant Changes to Existing Law Introduced
This is a non-binding resolution and does not amend or alter any existing laws. It serves only as an expression of congressional support without creating new legal requirements or modifications.
Potential Impacts on Government Agencies, Citizens, or International Relations
- Government agencies: Federal health or education agencies may consider the resolution when developing programs related to autism services, though it imposes no direct obligations.
- Citizens: It could encourage public awareness efforts and community discussions about autism in Black populations, potentially supporting local advocacy and resource allocation.
- International relations: The resolution has no apparent connection to or effects on foreign policy or international matters.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Black autistic individuals and their families.
- Healthcare providers and researchers focused on autism.
- Educators and school systems.
- Law enforcement agencies.
- Autism advocacy organizations and the broader Black community.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legally, the measure carries no enforceable authority as it is a resolution rather than a statute.
- Constitutionally, it aligns with Congress's ability to issue non-binding statements on public issues without infringing on individual rights or federal powers.
- Politically, it draws attention to the intersection of race and neurodivergence, potentially influencing future discussions on equity in disability services.
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
- 2025-09-19: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- 2025-09-19: Submitted in House
- 2025-09-19: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Expressing support for the designation of September 19, 2025, as "Black Autism Acceptance and Awareness Day". — issued 2025-09-19 — PDF (3 pages)