Senate Resolution No. by Senator Pressly designates March 17, 2026, as Profound Autism Day to raise awareness and recognition for individuals with profound autism. The resolution highlights the evolving definition of autism and emphasizes the unique challenges faced by those with profound autism, who require constant care and often have severe intellectual disabilities and minimal or no language skills. It notes that these individuals are frequently overlooked in research and support programs, despite representing a significant portion of the autism spectrum, as indicated by a recent CDC study showing that 26.7% of 8-year-old children with autism have profound autism.

The resolution calls for increased inclusion and support for individuals with profound autism and their caregivers, who often live in isolation. It acknowledges the need for specific consideration of their unique challenges and aims to promote awareness and understanding within the community. A copy of the resolution will be sent to the Profound Autism Alliance to further support this initiative.