Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

Illinois House Bill HR0706

Introduced
4/15/24  
Refer
4/16/24  
Refer
4/24/24  
Report Pass
5/8/24  

Caption

SPINAL ATROPHY AWARENESS MONTH

Impact

The adoption of HR0706 would help elevate the profile of spinal muscular atrophy within public discourse, paving the way for potential policy discussions and funding directed towards research and support mechanisms for affected individuals and their families. By designating a specific month for awareness, policymakers aim to encourage educational campaigns and outreach programs that could ultimately lead to higher funding for research and better health resources for those living with SMA.

Summary

House Resolution 0706 aims to raise awareness surrounding spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a serious genetic neurological condition characterized by the degeneration of motor-control neurons, leading to muscle weakness and atrophy. The resolution highlights the importance of understanding SMA as a debilitating yet rare disease, which affects approximately one in 11,000 babies born in the United States. The resolution emphasizes that those with SMA have normal cognitive function and are capable of vibrant lives despite their physical challenges. Additionally, it calls for increased awareness to foster knowledge and support for ongoing research and the affected families.

Contention

While the resolution primarily seeks to promote awareness and education about SMA, it does come against the backdrop of the broader conversation regarding the allocation of resources for rare diseases. Supporters view the resolution as vital for increasing public understanding and potentially spurring legislative initiatives that would benefit those suffering from neurological disorders. However, critics may argue that while awareness is essential, it must be accompanied by concrete legislative action and funding commitments to ensure comprehensive support for individuals impacted by SMA and related conditions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IL HR0195

SPINAL ATROPHY AWARENESS MONTH

IL HR0033

SPINAL ATROPHY AWARENESS MONTH

IL AR71

Relative to Multiple System Atrophy Awareness Month.

IL HR37

Recognizing Multiple System Atrophy Awareness Month in Ohio.

IL HB06100

An Act Designating Spinal Muscular Atrophy With Respiratory Distress Awareness Day And Dwarfism Awareness Month.

IL SR0176

FSHD AWARENESS DAY

IL HR485

Recognizing ALS Awareness Month, May 2024.

IL HR0897

PBC AWARENESS MONTH/DAY

IL SR122

Recognizing ALS Awareness Month, May 2025.

IL SCR16

Requests the La. Department of Health to add Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) to the state's newborn screening panel.

Similar Bills

NJ AJR91

Designates September 7 through 13 of each year as "Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Week" in New Jersey.

IL SB2658

NEWBORN SCREENING-DUCHENNE MD

IL SB3277

MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY AWARENESS

NJ SJR148

Designates September of each year as "Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month" in NJ.

NJ AJR219

Designates September of each year as "Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month" in NJ.

MI HB4358

Weapons: concealed; requirement to disclose possession of concealed weapon; expand to include fire personnel and emergency medical services personnel. Amends sec. 5f of 1927 PA 372 (MCL 28.425f).

IL HR0195

SPINAL ATROPHY AWARENESS MONTH

HI HB1719

Relating To Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.