Morris Commissioners Proclaim April 2021 as Autism Awareness Month

Published on April 15, 2021

New Jersey Has the Highest Rate of Autism in the Nation

The Morris County Board of County Commissioners unanimously adopted a resolution last night proclaiming April 2021 to be National Autism Awareness Month, urging Morris County residents to “continue a culture of disability awareness and inclusion for all members of our community.”

The Commissioners’ proclamation expressed a continued need for research as well as for public understanding of autism spectrum disorder, and especially an acceptance of people with autism spectrum disorder through “a commitment to providing support and services to individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.”

Autism spectrum disorder is a pervasive developmental disorder affecting the social, communication and behavioral skills of those affected by it. One in 54 children has been identified with the disorder in the United States, according the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

New Jersey has the highest rate of autism spectrum disorder in the nation at 1 in 32 children, or 3.1 percent of 8-year-old children. Additionally, the CDC data shows the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder in New Jersey continues to exceed and outpace other states.

“Autism spectrum disorder affects each individual in different ways, can range from very mild to severe and it knows no racial, ethnic or social boundaries, affecting young and old alike,” the Commissioners’ proclamation states.

There is no known cure for autism spectrum disorder. However, the CDC reports that accurate, early diagnosis and the appropriate education and intervention are vital to the future growth and development of an individual with autism spectrum disorder.