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HR 299

A resolution to declare April 23, 2026, as Autism Acceptance Day in the state of Michigan.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Emily Dievendorf and 13 co-sponsors

Declares April 23, 2026 as Autism Acceptance Day in Michigan to promote inclusion, understanding, and acceptance of autistic individuals and reduce stigma.

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Bill Summary · HR 299

Summary of Bill HR 299 (Michigan, 2025-2026)

Title

House Resolution No. 299 declares April 23, 2026, as Autism Acceptance Day in the state of Michigan.

Purpose and Intent

  • Formal recognition of autism acceptance as a public value in Michigan.
  • Promote inclusion, understanding, and respect for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
  • Encourage awareness that goes beyond mere awareness to active acceptance and inclusion within all aspects of society.

Key Provisions

  • Declares April 23, 2026, as Autism Acceptance Day in Michigan.
  • Encourages all Michigan residents to observe the day by promoting acceptance, inclusion, and understanding of individuals with autism and their families.
  • Emphasizes the importance of neurodiversity and the contributions of autistic individuals.
  • Highlights the role of acceptance in reducing stigma and improving access to services.

Who Is Affected

  • The declaration primarily affects state residents and public-facing institutions within Michigan by providing an official day of recognition.
  • It aims to influence public perception, educators, families, caregivers, and advocates by encouraging inclusive practices and supportive environments.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Status: Introduced and adopted on April 29, 2026.
  • Principal sponsor: Rep. Sharon MacDonell.
  • Co-sponsors: A broad group of representatives (listed in the bill’s metadata).
  • This is a ceremonial or symbolic resolution; it does not create new laws, funding, or regulatory requirements. Instead, it establishes an annual observance and public messaging around Autism Acceptance Day.

Context and Supporting Rationale (as stated in the bill)

  • Cites ASD prevalence data in the U.S. (approximately 1 in 36 children per CDC) to underscore the relevance of awareness and support.
  • Distinguishes between awareness and acceptance, aligning with advocacy groups like the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, which advocate for acceptance-based inclusion.
  • Emphasizes benefits of acceptance: reducing stigma, improving access to services, and fostering equity and inclusion for all Michigan residents.

Potential Impact and Considerations

  • Raises public visibility for autism acceptance within Michigan.
  • Encourages schools, workplaces, and community organizations to adopt inclusive practices around that day (and potentially beyond).
  • As a non-binding resolution, it does not authorize new programs or funding, but it may influence public discourse and future policy discussions related to autism services, inclusion, and education.
  • Could inspire local events, educational activities, and partnerships with autistic advocates and organizations.

If you’d like, I can add a brief comparison to similar state-level resolutions or provide a one-paragraph plain-language press release summarizing the bill.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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