AL HJR137

Recognizes and supports the observance of Profound Autism Day on March 17, 2026, honoring the Profound Autism Alliance

Defines profound autism as individuals requiring 24-hour care from an adult caregiver throughout their lives, often with severe intellectual disability and minimal or no functional language

Cites April 2023 CDC study finding that 26.7% of 8-year-old children with autism in the U.S. meet criteria for profound autism (approximately 1 in 4)

Notes individuals with profound autism are more likely to be female, from racial/ethnic minority groups, experience low socioeconomic status, and have co-occurring conditions like seizure disorders

Passed House on February 24, 2026 and adopted by Senate on February 25, 2026