Expressing support for the designation of the week of May 4, 2025, through May 10, 2025, as "Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week".
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 396
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Health
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-05-07: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- Last Updated
- 2026-05-21T14:27:08Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This House Resolution (H. Res. 396) aims to raise public and medical awareness about tardive dyskinesia (TD), a movement disorder often linked to long-term use of certain medications. It expresses support for designating the week of May 4 through May 10, 2025, as "Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week" to educate people on symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
Key Provisions
- Support for Designation: The House of Representatives formally supports the week-long awareness period to highlight TD.
- Encouragement for Awareness: Urges individuals across the United States to learn more about TD, including its causes, effects, and the importance of monitoring and screening.
- Background Context: The resolution outlines that TD can result from prolonged use of dopamine-blocking medications (like antipsychotics for mental health conditions such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, and antiemetics for gastrointestinal issues like nausea). It notes that TD affects an estimated 600,000 people in the U.S., with about 65% undiagnosed, and emphasizes the role of regular screening recommended by the American Psychiatric Association. It also mentions FDA-approved treatments for adults with TD.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
- None. This is a non-binding resolution, meaning it does not create new laws, amend existing statutes, or impose any legal requirements. It serves as a symbolic expression of congressional intent rather than enforceable legislation.
Potential Impacts
- On Citizens: May increase public knowledge of TD symptoms (uncontrollable, repetitive movements in the face, body, or limbs), leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment for those at risk, potentially improving quality of life for affected individuals and their families.
- On Government Agencies: Minimal direct impact; it could indirectly support efforts by agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and health organizations by amplifying awareness of approved treatments.
- On International Relations: No impact, as the resolution is focused solely on domestic U.S. health awareness.
- Overall, the effects are primarily educational and promotional, without financial or regulatory obligations.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Patients and At-Risk Individuals: People with serious mental illnesses (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder) or gastrointestinal disorders who take dopamine-blocking medications, including the estimated 600,000 with TD.
- Healthcare Providers: Doctors and psychiatrists who monitor patients for TD, benefiting from heightened awareness and screening recommendations.
- Advocacy and Medical Groups: Organizations like the American Psychiatric Association and patient advocacy groups focused on mental health and movement disorders.
- General Public: Encouraged to become informed, potentially reducing stigma and improving support for those affected.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal/Constitutional: No significant implications, as resolutions like this do not require presidential approval, carry no force of law, and do not infringe on constitutional rights. They are a standard congressional tool for expressing views on public health issues.
- Political: Demonstrates bipartisan support (introduced by representatives from both parties) for mental health and medication safety awareness, potentially influencing future funding or policy discussions without binding commitments. It highlights Congress's role in promoting non-controversial health education initiatives.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Peters, Scott H. [D-CA-50]
Cosponsors (3)
Rep. Bilirakis, Gus M. [R-FL-12], Rep. Mullin, Kevin [D-CA-15], Rep. Bean, Aaron [R-FL-4]
Recent Actions
- 2025-05-07: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- 2025-05-07: Submitted in House
- 2025-05-07: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Expressing support for the designation of the week of May 4, 2025, through May 10, 2025, as "Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week". — issued 2025-05-07 — PDF (2 pages)