A resolution recognizing the importance of increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders, supporting programs for increased research and improved treatment of autism, and improving training and support for individuals with autism and those who care for individuals with autism.

[AI summary unavailable — showing source text] Supports the establishment of April as National Autism Awareness Month. Recognizes and commends the parents and relatives of children with autism for their sacrifice and dedication in providing for the special needs of such children. Supports the goal of increasing Federal funding for aggressive research to: (1) learn the root causes of autism; (2) identify the best methods of early intervention and treatment; (3) expand programs for individuals with autism; and (4) promote understanding of the special needs of people with autism. Commends the Department of Health and Human Services for swift implementation of the Children's Health Act of 2000, particularly for establishing Centers of Excellence for autism-related research at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health. Stresses the need for early intervention services after a child has been diagnosed with autism. Supports the Federal Government's commitment to provide States with 40 percent of the costs needed to educate children with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Recognizes the shortage of appropriately trained teachers to teach special needs students,…