House Resolution 16 - Introduced HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 16 BY NUNN A Resolution recognizing May 14, 2015, as Childhood 1 Apraxia of Speech Day, and encouraging awareness and 2 understanding of the disorder. 3 WHEREAS, May 14, 2015, marks the third annual 4 Childhood Apraxia of Speech Day, during which awareness 5 will be raised about childhood apraxia of speech, a 6 particularly difficult, persistent, and severe speech 7 and communication disorder in youngsters; and 8 WHEREAS, childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) causes 9 children to have extreme difficulty learning to 10 speak and is among the most severe of speech and 11 communication problems in children; and 12 WHEREAS, although the process of learning to speak 13 comes effortlessly to most children, those with apraxia 14 endure an incredible and lengthy struggle; and 15 WHEREAS, without appropriate intervention, children 16 with apraxia are placed at high risk for secondary 17 difficulties in literacy and other academic-related 18 skills; and 19 WHEREAS, most children with apraxia of speech will 20 learn to communicate with their own voices only if they 21 receive early intervention and appropriate, frequent 22 speech therapy; and 23 WHEREAS, it is imperative that there be greater 24 public awareness about CAS at the local, state, and 25 federal level; and 26 WHEREAS, entities such as insurance providers and 27 schools are encouraged to recognize the critical need 28 -1- LSB 2603HH (3) 86 rj/nh 1/ 2

H.R. 16 to provide adequate speech therapy and other services 1 so that the impact of this disorder can be minimized 2 and so that affected children can grow into productive, 3 contributing adult citizens; and 4 WHEREAS, our highest respect goes to these 5 children, as well as their families, for their effort, 6 determination, and resilience in the face of such 7 obstacles; NOW THEREFORE, 8 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, 9 That the House of Representatives recognizes May 14, 10 2015, as Childhood Apraxia of Speech Day and encourages 11 citizens to work within their communities to increase 12 awareness and understanding of childhood apraxia of 13 speech. 14 -2- LSB 2603HH (3) 86 rj/nh 2/ 2