Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 99 Part 1.djvu/192

 99 STAT. 170

PUBLIC LAW 99-72—JULY 24, 1985 Public Law 99-72 99th Congress

V Joint Resolution

—^^—'[S.J. Res. 40]

To designate the month of October 1985 as "National Down Syndrome Month".

Whereas the past decade has brought a greater and more enHghtened attitude in the care and training of the developmentally disabled; Whereas one such condition which has undergone considerable reevaluation is that of Down syndrome—a problem which, just a short time ago, was often stigmatized as a mentally retarded condition which relegated its victims to lives of passivity in institutions and back rooms; Whereas, through the efforts of concerned physicians, teachers and parent groups such as the National Down Syndrome Congress, programs are being put in place to educate new parents of babies with Down syndrome; to develop special education classes within mainstreamed programs in schools; the provision for vocational training in preparation for competitive employment in the work force and to prepare young adults with Down syndrome for independent living in the community; Whereas the cost of such services designed to help individuals with Down syndrome move into their rightful place in our society is but a tiny fraction of the cost of institutionalization; Whereas along with this improvement in educational opportunities for those with Down syndrome is the advancement in medical science which is adding to a more brightened outlook for individuals born with this chromosomal configuration; and Whereas public awareness and acceptance of the capabilities of children with Down syndrome can greatly facilitate their being mainstreamed in our society: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled. That October 1985 is designated "National Down Syndrome Month" and that the President of the United States is authorized and requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States to observe the designated month with appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities. Approved July 24, 1985.

LEGISLATIVE HISTORY—S.J. Res. 40: CONGRESSIONAL RECORD, Vol. 131 (1985): May 15, considered and passed Senate. July 11, considered and passed House.

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