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Bill

J 279

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 2025 as Aphasia Awareness Month in the State of New York

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Addabbo and 61 co-sponsors

Memorializes Gov. Hochul to proclaim June 2025 as Aphasia Awareness Month in New York; ceremonial, raises public awareness without new spending or law.

ADOPTED
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Bill Summary · J 279

Summary of Bill J 279: Memorializing Governor Hochul to Proclaim June 2025 as Aphasia Awareness Month (New York)

Executive snapshot

  • Bill number: J 279
  • Title: Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 2025 as Aphasia Awareness Month in the State of New York
  • Type: Joint memorializing resolution (non-binding)
  • Status: ADOPTED
  • Introduced: January 30, 2025
  • Primary purpose: Urge and memorialize the Governor to issue a proclamation designating June 2025 as Aphasia Awareness Month in New York

Purpose and intent

  • The bill seeks formal recognition by the New York State Legislature of aphasia as a public health and awareness priority. By memorializing the Governor to issue a proclamation, it aligns state-level acknowledgement with the broader national emphasis on aphasia awareness during June.

Key provisions and changes

  • The resolution would:
    • Memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 2025 as Aphasia Awareness Month in New York.
    • Express the Legislature’s support for public education, outreach, and community engagement related to aphasia.
  • As a resolution, the measure does not create new programs, impose new duties on state agencies, or authorize expenditures. Any proclamation would be issued at the Governor’s discretion and would not, by itself, mandate funding or rule changes.

Affected parties and potential impact

  • People with aphasia and their families: Increased visibility and awareness, potential for enhanced public understanding and reduced stigma.
  • Healthcare and speech-language pathology communities: Reinforced emphasis on aphasia awareness within state advocacy and public events.
  • Public and educators: Encouraged participation in awareness activities during Aphasia Awareness Month.
  • State government: No new statutory obligations; potential alignment with existing national awareness efforts.

Legislative actions and timeline

  • January 30, 2025: Referred to Finance (introductory step in the legislative process).
  • February 4, 2025: Re-reported to calendar for consideration; subsequently ADOPTED (by the Legislature), indicating passage in both houses.
  • The rapid progression suggests cross-chamber support for acknowledging Aphasia Awareness Month.

Sponsors

  • Primary sponsor: Steve Rhoads
  • Cosponsors: A broad, bipartisan list of Assembly members and Senators, including (but not limited to) Mario Mattera, Gustavo Rivera, Michelle Hinchey, Nathalia Fernandez, José M. Serrano, Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Shelley Mayer, James Tedisco, Kevin S. Parker, James Skoufis, and many others.

Practical takeaway

  • This is a ceremonial, symbolic act intended to honor aphasia awareness and encourage proclamation by the Governor for June 2025. It does not alter law or authorize spending, but it signals strong legislative support for public awareness efforts related to aphasia. If the Governor issues the proclamation, June 2025 would be recognized across New York as Aphasia Awareness Month.

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

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