Resolution 1008, introduced by Representative Tammy West, designates March 17, 2025, as Profound Autism Day at the State Capitol in Oklahoma. The resolution aims to raise awareness and support for individuals with profound autism, a term that describes those who require continuous care throughout their lives. It highlights the unique challenges faced by this group, including severe intellectual disabilities and limited communication abilities, and emphasizes the need for inclusion and support from the community.
The resolution references recent research from the Centers for Disease Control, which indicates that approximately 26.7% of children diagnosed with autism in the United States have profound autism. It notes that these individuals often face additional challenges, such as being more likely to come from minority backgrounds or low socioeconomic status, and may experience self-injurious behaviors and seizure disorders. By recognizing Profound Autism Day, the resolution seeks to foster understanding and support for those affected by profound autism and their caregivers, who often live in isolation.