[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 65 (Monday, April 18, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E389-E390]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    RECOGNIZING AUTISM AFTER 21 DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JAMIE RASKIN

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 18, 2022

  Mr. RASKIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize April 21 as 
national ``Autism After 21 Day''. As many of my colleagues know, April 
is Autism Acceptance Month, so it is fitting and crucial that we take a 
moment today

[[Page E390]]

to acknowledge the unique challenges faced by adults with autism after 
the age of 21.
  The transition to adulthood is challenging for many young people. 
However, this transition period can be especially difficult for 
autistic young people, who often face a formidable challenge--the so-
called ``services cliff''--as they age out of the school system. 
Federal support services drop off, and young adults with autism and 
their families often struggle to find meaningful educational and job 
opportunities, face challenges in obtaining essential support services, 
and experience what can feel like an overwhelming loss of their 
community.
  In light of these pressing challenges, Madam Speaker, I want to 
recognize the important work being done to support adults with autism 
in my community. Two extraordinary constituents of mine, JaLynn Prince 
and Dr. Gregory A. Prince, founded the Madison House Autism Foundation, 
which works to improve the health and wellbeing of autistic adults 
throughout their lifespan. The Madison House Autism Foundation is 
expanding choices and opportunities for adults with autism through 
housing initiatives, employment partnerships, and many other innovative 
efforts, including the Autism After 21 movement.
  Madam Speaker, we must continue working to achieve a more inclusive 
and enlightened society that provides equitable opportunities to 
autistic individuals of every age. This month, as we celebrate the 
contributions of so many adults with autism and their allies, I urge my 
colleagues to join me in recognizing April 21st as national ``Autism 
After 21 Day''.

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