Kentucky 2026 Regular Session

Kentucky Senate Bill SR72

Introduced
2/2/26  
Refer
2/2/26  
Refer
2/3/26  

Caption

A RESOLUTION recognizing March 17, 2026, as Profound Autism Day in Kentucky.

Summary

SR72 is a Senate resolution recognizing March 17, 2026, as Profound Autism Day in Kentucky. The resolution states that autism is a broad and evolving spectrum, and it highlights “profound autism” as a term for autistic people who require lifelong, around-the-clock care, may have severe intellectual disability, or may have minimal or no language. It also cites CDC research indicating that profound autism represents a significant share of the autism population and notes that people with profound autism and their caregivers often face isolation and need greater inclusion and support. The resolution does not create a regulatory program, mandate services, or appropriate funds. Its practical effect is symbolic: it directs the Senate to formally recognize the day and, upon adjournment, to do so in support of people with profound autism and those who care for them. It also instructs the Senate Clerk to transmit the resolution to Senator Stephen Meredith for delivery.

Impact

SR72 does not amend Kentucky statutes or alter legal rights, duties, or agency responsibilities. Its impact is limited to an official legislative recognition of Profound Autism Day and a public statement of support for individuals with profound autism and their caregivers. The resolution may be used to raise awareness, encourage inclusion, and signal legislative attention to the needs of a population that the text says is often excluded from research and support programs.

Sentiment

The available context indicates broad support and a positive tone around the resolution. It was adopted by voice vote, which suggests no recorded opposition and a generally favorable consensus. The bill text itself is affirming and advocacy-oriented, emphasizing recognition, inclusion, and support for people with profound autism and their families.

Contention

No formal contention is shown in the available voting or committee record, and no committee transcripts are provided. The only potentially sensitive issue reflected in the text is the use of the term “profound autism,” which the resolution presents as a clarifying category for individuals with the highest support needs. The resolution also implicitly raises policy concerns about whether people with profound autism are adequately represented in research and support systems, but no opposing viewpoints are documented in the record provided.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

KY HR74

A RESOLUTION recognizing September 17, 2025, as United States Constitution Day and June 1, 2025, as Kentucky Constitution Day in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

KY SR224

A RESOLUTION recognizing April 4, 2025, as Going Pro Day in Kentucky.

KY SR98

A RESOLUTION recognizing November 2025 as Grieving Children and Families Month in Kentucky.

KY HR71

A RESOLUTION recognizing November 2025 as Grieving Children and Families Month in Kentucky.

KY SR54

A RESOLUTION recognizing February 13, 2025, as Kentucky Arts Day.

KY HR23

A RESOLUTION recognizing February 13, 2025, as Kentucky Arts Day.

KY HR59

A RESOLUTION recognizing August 21, 2025, as Kentucky Senior Citizens Day in the Commonwealth.

KY SR36

A RESOLUTION recognizing February 6, 2025, as Kentucky Nurses Day in the Commonwealth.

KY HR14

A RESOLUTION recognizing February 6, 2025, as Kentucky Nurses Day in the Commonwealth.

KY HR27

A RESOLUTION recognizing October 10, 2025, as Higher Education Mental Health Day in Kentucky.

Similar Bills

NJ SJR28

Designates March 17 of each year as "Profound Autism Day."

NJ AJR90

Designates March 17 of each year as "Profound Autism Day."

TX HB3096

Relating to designating March 17 as Profound Autism Awareness Day.

SC H5314

Profound Autism Day in SC

OK HR1008

Resolution; Profound Autism Day.

OK HR1008

Resolution; Profound Autism Day.

LA SR41

Recognizes March 17, 2026, as Profound Autism Day.

CA SR89

Relative to Profound Autism Day.