Supporting the goals and ideals of Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month.
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 562
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Health
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-06-30: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- Last Updated
- 2026-07-09T22:32:43Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This resolution (H. Res. 562) expresses the U.S. House of Representatives' support for the goals and ideals of Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month, observed in June. It aims to highlight the impact of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, promote education, advocacy for research and care, and provide support to affected individuals and their families.
Key Provisions
- Background Facts ("Whereas" Clauses): The resolution outlines key statistics and challenges, including:
- Alzheimer's as a progressive brain disorder causing memory loss, cognitive decline, and death.
- It is the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S. overall and fifth for those aged 65+.
- Nearly 7 million Americans currently live with it, potentially rising to 13 million by 2050; two-thirds are women.
- One in three older Americans dies with Alzheimer's or another dementia.
- It is the only top-10 cause of death without prevention or cure.
- Estimated 2025 care costs: $384 billion.
- Over 11 million unpaid caregivers, many experiencing high emotional stress (70%) or depression (40%).
- Higher risks for Black Americans (nearly 2x), Latinos (1.5x), and underdetection in Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders.
- Stigma and health disparities affect diagnosis, care, and research in underserved communities.
- Every American is at risk; June is designated as Awareness Month since 2014 by the Alzheimer's Association.
- Resolution Actions:
- Supports the goals of raising awareness, advocating for research/care/support, and offering help to those affected.
- Encourages the public to educate themselves, advocate for resources, and support patients, families, and caregivers.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This is a non-binding resolution, so it introduces no changes to existing laws or statutes. It serves as a symbolic statement without legal enforcement.
Potential Impacts
- On Citizens: Increases public awareness of Alzheimer's risks, symptoms, and caregiver burdens, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis, reduced stigma, and more support for families. It highlights disparities in underserved communities, which could encourage equitable access to care and research.
- On Government Agencies: No direct mandates, but it may indirectly influence agencies like the Department of Health and Human Services by signaling congressional priority for Alzheimer's funding and programs.
- On International Relations: Minimal impact, as it focuses on domestic awareness; however, it could align with global health initiatives on dementia.
- Overall, the resolution fosters voluntary public engagement without enforceable outcomes.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Individuals with Alzheimer's or Dementia: Benefits from raised awareness and reduced stigma to improve detection and support.
- Families and Caregivers: Over 11 million unpaid caregivers, particularly those facing emotional stress or depression, are encouraged to seek and receive help.
- Underserved Communities: Black, Latino, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander populations, who face higher risks and disparities in care/research.
- Healthcare and Advocacy Groups: Organizations like the Alzheimer's Association gain visibility for their efforts in education and advocacy.
- General Public: All Americans, as the resolution emphasizes universal risk and calls for collective education and action.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: As a simple resolution, it has no binding force and does not require Senate approval or presidential signature; it is purely expressive.
- Constitutional: Aligns with Congress's role in informing public policy on health issues under its general welfare powers (Article I, Section 8), without infringing on individual rights.
- Political: Bipartisan sponsorship (introduced by Democrats and Republicans) underscores broad consensus on Alzheimer's as a national priority. It could build momentum for future funding bills (e.g., via the National Institutes of Health) or related legislation, amplifying calls for research investment amid rising prevalence and costs.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Barragán, Nanette Diaz [D-CA-44]
Cosponsors (4)
Rep. Buchanan, Vern [R-FL-16], Rep. Sánchez, Linda T. [D-CA-38], Rep. Bilirakis, Gus M. [R-FL-12], Rep. Kiggans, Jennifer A. [R-VA-2]
Recent Actions
- 2025-06-30: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- 2025-06-30: Submitted in House
- 2025-06-30: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Supporting the goals and ideals of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. — issued 2025-06-30 — PDF (3 pages)