Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 100 Part 2.djvu/124

 100 STAT. 1226

PUBLIC LAW 99-483—OCT. 16, 1986

Public Law 99-483 99th Congress Joint Resolution Oct. 16, 1986 [H.J. Res. 741]

To designate March 1987, as "Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month".

Whereas there are 3,900,000 children and adults with developmental disabilities in the United States; Whereas such persons have severe chronic disabilities attributed to mental or physical impairment which begin early in life and result in substantial limitations in major life activities such as self care, mobility, language, learning, and self direction; Whereas persons with developmental disabilities need interdisciplinary or generic service and treatment for extended periods of their lives; Whereas persons with developmental disabilities have the capability to become more independent and economically self sufficient; Whereas the services and expertise provided by professional personnel, parents, and concerned citizens enable persons with developmental disabilities to participate more freely in education, employment and community living; Whereas increasingly more persons with developmental disabilities are living in the community enabling them to live less restricted lives; and Whereas through increased national awareness of such programs, the public will better understand the potential and needs of persons with developmental disabilities: Now, therefore, be it: Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled. That March 1987 is designated as the "Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month", and the President is authorized and requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States and all Federal, State, and local government officials to observe the month with appropriate programs and activities. Approved October 16, 1986.

LEGISLATIVE HISTORY—H.J. Res. 741: CONGRESSIONAL RECORD, Vol. 132 (1986): Oct. 1, considered and passed House. Oct. 3, considered and passed Senate.

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