Assembly proclaims March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month after emotional floor debate

The California State Assembly on Thursday adopted House Resolution 24, recognizing March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and highlighting services for people with developmental disabilities.

Assemblymember Mia Wynne introduced HR 24 and described personal experience with her daughter, whom she said made notable developmental progress in the last year. Wynne urged colleagues to support families and educational and service systems that help children and adults with developmental disabilities.

Several members across the aisle shared personal stories and urged legislative attention to services and funding. Assemblymember Jeff Gonzales described caregiving challenges for his 32‑year‑old son with cerebral palsy and pleaded for broader support; Assemblymember Muratsuchi noted the role of the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights when children with disabilities face discrimination; Assemblymember Berman warned about the use of slurs and online harassment toward people with developmental disabilities; and others described local non‑profits and service providers that support families. Assemblymember Patterson recounted volunteer experience and prior legislative efforts, and he referenced a recent veto of legislation and past budget fights, including a referenced but unspecified governor’s budget cut to preschool programs for children with developmental disabilities that the legislature opposed last year.

The clerk recorded 72 coauthors on the resolution; members then adopted HR 24 by voice vote. The resolution is ceremonial but prompted extended floor debate focused on service access, funding pressures and stigma faced by people with developmental disabilities.