Us Congress House Bill HR984

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24
• Refer: 1/30/24
• Refer: 2/2/24

Caption

Expressing support for the designation of January 30, 2024, as CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) and RHI (repeated head impacts) Awareness Day.

Impact

The resolution is intended to highlight the importance of awareness and education regarding CTE and its associated risks, particularly in contact sports. By calling for educational efforts from organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the resolution seeks to facilitate better understanding of the disease's symptoms and the need for preventive measures. Engaging organizations that advocate for better awareness around CTE will likely foster community discussions and support for those affected, their families, and caregivers.

Summary

House Resolution 984 expresses support for the designation of January 30, 2024, as Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and Repeated Head Impacts (RHI) Awareness Day. The resolution emphasizes the significance of raising awareness about CTE, a progressive degenerative brain disease linked to repeated head injuries, predominantly found in athletes and military veterans. This awareness day aims to reflect on the impacts of CTE, including its symptoms such as memory loss, depression, and impaired judgment, which may manifest years after the trauma. It serves to educate the public and promote safer practices in sports and other activities involving potential head injuries.

Contention

While the resolution itself does not enact any laws or policies, it underscores ongoing issues regarding the acknowledgment of CTE as a serious health concern. Some may argue about the adequacy of current safety measures in contact sports, raising discussions on whether more stringent regulations might be necessary to protect athletes. Others may voice their concerns regarding the recognition of CTE as a public health issue that requires more significant attention in terms of funding research and developing effective diagnostic tools. The dialogue surrounding this resolution reflects broader societal debates about sports safety and the long-term health implications of contact sports.