A resolution expressing support for the designation of the month of April 2026 as "Parkinson's Awareness Month".

119th Congress Introduced by Cory Booker and 2 co-sponsors

Designates April 2026 as Parkinson’s Awareness Month to boost awareness, support research, and promote care, education, and community involvement for those affected.

Passed/agreed to in Senate: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent.

Bill at a glance

Type: Resolution (non-binding)

Status: Passed by the Senate via unanimous consent on April 28, 2026

Sponsors: Sen. Rick Scott (primary); Sen. Cory Booker; Sen. Jim Risch

Co-sponsors: Additional support from the sponsoring legislators

Official title: Expressing support for the designation of the month of April 2026 as “Parkinson's Awareness Month”

Purpose and intent

The resolution designates April 2026 as Parkinson's Awareness Month.

It articulates broad support for ongoing efforts related to Parkinson’s disease (PD), including research, education, and community services.

It recognizes the impact of Parkinson’s on individuals and families and endorses the goals and ideals of Parkinson’s Awareness Month.

Key provisions and language

Recognition of impact: Acknowledges that Parkinson’s disease affects over 1,000,000 people in the United States, with about 90,000 new diagnoses each year; notes PD is a leading neurodegenerative disease worldwide and a leading cause of death in the U.S. (per CDC data).

Symptom overview: Lists common PD symptoms such as dementia/cognitive impairment, tremors, slowed movement, rigidity, gait/balance issues, speech/swallowing difficulties, depression, and other related symptoms.

Caregiver and community impact: Highlights millions of family caregivers, friends, and loved ones affected by PD.

Call for action: Emphasizes the need for more research, education, and community support to:

Find better treatments and ultimately a cure.
Maintain the dignity and quality of life for people living with PD.

Specific acknowledgments (operational goals):

Express support for designating April 2026 as Parkinson’s Awareness Month.
Endorse the goals and ideals of Parkinson’s Awareness Month.
Continue support for research toward better treatments and a cure.
Recognize individuals with PD who participate in vital clinical trials.
Commend organizations, volunteers, researchers, and the public working to improve life for people with PD and their families.

Who is affected

Direct beneficiaries: People living with Parkinson’s disease in the United States.

Indirect beneficiaries: Families, caregivers, medical researchers, clinicians, advocacy organizations, and volunteers involved in PD awareness, treatment development, and support services.

The resolution also acknowledges the broader community involved in PD education and outreach.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduction and action: Introduced in the 119th Congress and considered/agreed to by unanimous consent.

Effective date: As a resolution, it takes effect upon passage; it does not create new law or funding.

Commendations and recognition: The resolution serves as a formal expression of support and a legislative signal of national recognition for Parkinson’s Awareness Month.

Potential impact

While non-binding, the resolution can:

Elevate public awareness about PD and its impact.
Encourage ongoing funding and advocacy for PD research and patient support.
Encourage participation in clinical trials and collaboration among researchers, healthcare providers, and patient communities.
Support alignment with existing federal and private efforts focused on PD education and care.

This document provides a concise, non-legislative acknowledgment aimed at promoting awareness, research, and support for individuals affected by Parkinson’s disease.

Bill