Senate Resolution No. 2553 BY: Senator RHOADS MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2024, as Speech-Language-Hearing Month in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official months that are set aside to increase awareness of health issues that affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2024, as Speech-Language-Hearing Month in the State of New York; and WHEREAS, Speech-Language-Hearing Month is a time to celebrate the vital role that communication plays in the lives of New York citizens and to raise awareness about the importance of speech, language, and hearing health; and WHEREAS, The work of speech-language and hearing professionals who dedicate their careers to helping individuals overcome communication challenges is vital; utilizing evidence-based therapies and interventions to enhance communication skills and improve quality of life, they help children develop their first words, assist adults recovering from stroke or brain injury, and provide essential support to individuals with a wide range of needs; and WHEREAS, Serving as a reminder to prioritize communication health and to seek professional help when needed, Speech-Language-Hearing Month is meant to aid communities in understanding the complexities of communication and appreciating the dedicated professionals who work in the field; and WHEREAS, One of the entities advocating for individuals with communication challenges is the Long Island Speech-Language-Hearing Association (LISHA), a nonprofit organization that has encouraged students in school systems throughout Long Island to participate in a poster contest; the poster contest raises awareness of the cause and awards are issued to children; and WHEREAS, It is imperative that there be greater public awareness of this issue and that communities work to foster a society that values and supports the right to communicate effectively; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2024, as Speech-Language-Hearing Month in the State of New York; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New York.