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SB 1709

SB 1709 - This act designates the last full week of September each year as "Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD) Awareness Week" in Missouri. The citizens of this state are encouraged to participate in appropriate events and activities that will increase awareness of frontotemporal degeneration, to support programs of research and education surrounding frontotemporal degeneration, and to support individuals and families impacted by frontotemporal degeneration. SARAH HASKINS

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tracy McCreery

Missouri designates the last week of September as Frontotemporal Degeneration Awareness Week to increase public recognition of this rare neurodegenerative disease.

Second Read and Referred S Progress and Development Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 1709

Legislative bill overview

SB 1709 designates the last week of September as Frontotemporal Degeneration Awareness Week in Missouri. This is a ceremonial bill that calls for state recognition and public awareness efforts around frontotemporal degeneration (FTD), a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain.

Why is this important

Frontotemporal degeneration is a relatively rare but devastating disease that typically strikes people in their 40s-60s, often earlier than Alzheimer's disease. Public awareness campaigns can help with early diagnosis, patient support, and funding for research into this currently incurable condition that affects patients' behavior, language, and motor control.

Potential points of contention

  • Limited practical impact: Designating an awareness week is symbolic rather than substantive—it doesn't allocate funding or create new programs for research or patient services
  • Resource allocation questions: Some may argue legislative time should prioritize bills with direct budgetary or regulatory effects rather than ceremonial designations
  • Awareness week proliferation: Missouri already recognizes numerous health awareness weeks; critics question whether additional designations meaningfully increase public knowledge

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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