Summary of S.Res. 194 — A Resolution Expressing Support for Parkinson’s Awareness Month (April 2025)

Overview

S.Res. 194 is a Senate resolution introduced on April 30, 2025, that expresses support for designating April 2025 as Parkinson’s Awareness Month. As a resolution, it is a non-binding measure that conveys the Senate’s emphasis on awareness, research, and community support rather than creating new law or funding.

Purpose and Intent

• Officially designate April 2025 as Parkinson’s Awareness Month.
• Express support for the goals and ideals of Parkinson’s Awareness Month.
• Emphasize ongoing commitment to research aimed at developing better treatments and ultimately a cure for Parkinson’s disease.
• Recognize individuals living with Parkinson’s disease who participate in vital clinical trials.
• Commend the dedication of organizations, volunteers, researchers, and millions of Americans working to improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s and their families.

Key Provisions

The introduced text comprises five core statements:
1. The Senate expresses support for designating April 2025 as Parkinson’s Awareness Month.
2. The Senate supports the goals and ideals of Parkinson’s Awareness Month.
3. The Senate continues to support research to find better treatments and a cure for Parkinson’s disease.
4. The Senate recognizes individuals with Parkinson’s who participate in clinical trials to advance knowledge of the disease.
5. The Senate commends the dedication of organizations, volunteers, researchers, and millions of Americans working to improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s and their families.

Procedural History

• Introduced: April 30, 2025.
• Referred to: Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) on April 30, 2025.
• Status: Introduced and pending committee action.

Sponsors

• Primary: Sen. Rick Scott
• Cosponsors: Sen. Cory Booker; Sen. James E. Risch
• Related House companion: H.Res. 345

Related Legislation

• House companion: H.Res. 345

Potential Impact

• Awareness and Education: Elevates public attention to Parkinson’s disease and the needs of patients and families.
• Research Support: Signals ongoing legislative support for research efforts and clinical trials, potentially aiding advocacy and fundraising efforts.
• Community Recognition: Publicly acknowledges the contributions of patients, researchers, clinicians, and advocacy organizations.
• Non-Binding Nature: As a resolution, it does not authorize spending, establish new programs, or create enforceable mandates; its influence is primarily symbolic and rhetorical, aimed at aligning federal emphasis with Parkinson’s advocacy and research goals.