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J 99

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2025, as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Awareness Month in the State of New York

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Roxanne Persaud

Memorializes the governor to proclaim May 2025 as ME/CFS Awareness Month in NY; ceremonial, boosts awareness for patients and families, with no new laws or funding.

ADOPTED
1
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Bill Summary · J 99

Summary of NY Bill J 99 – Memorializing Governor Hochul to Proclaim May 2025 as ME/CFS Awareness Month

Overview

Bill J 99 is a New York State Assembly/Joint Resolution that would memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to issue a proclamation designating May 2025 as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) Awareness Month in New York. The measure is ceremonial in nature and does not create new law or fiscal programs. It has been adopted by the Legislature and sent to the governor for potential proclamation.

Primary Purpose

  • To recognize ME/CFS and promote awareness of the illness within New York State.
  • To request (via proclamation) formal recognition of May 2025 as ME/CFS Awareness Month, encouraging public and private observances, education, and support related to ME/CFS.

Key Provisions

  • Memorializes the Governor to proclaim May 2025 as ME/CFS Awareness Month in New York.
  • Encourages awareness, education, and recognition of patients, families, caregivers, researchers, and healthcare professionals involved with ME/CFS.
  • No substantive policy changes or new programs are created in the bill itself; it relies on an executive proclamation to designate the month.

Who Is Affected

  • Residents of New York State who have ME/CFS and their families, caregivers, and advocates.
  • Public agencies, employers, healthcare providers, and community organizations may observe ME/CFS Awareness Month as encouraged by the proclamation.
  • No new funding or regulatory requirements are imposed by the bill.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Introduced: January 9, 2025.
  • Legislative actions indicate the measure was referred to the Finance committee on January 9, 2025, and subsequently moved through the calendar for consideration, with adoption occurring on January 14, 2025.
  • Status: ADOPTED (as of January 14, 2025), meaning the Legislature has approved the resolution and it has been transmitted to the Governor for proclamation, if applicable.
  • Sponsor: Assemblymember Roxanne J. Persaud (primary).

Background Context

ME/CFS is a chronic, often debilitating condition characterized by profound fatigue and a range of other symptoms. Recognitions like ME/CFS Awareness Month are common ceremonial tools used by state legislatures to highlight patient needs, promote education, and encourage supportive actions from health systems, educators, employers, and the public.

Potential Impact

  • Raises statewide awareness of ME/CFS and its impact on individuals and families.
  • Encourages coordinated activities, education, and outreach during May 2025.
  • Since the bill is a memorialization, its impact is largely symbolic unless paired with subsequent executive or legislative actions (e.g., specific state programs or funding).

Next Steps

  • With adoption by the Legislature, the bill would normally be forwarded to the Governor for signature or veto. If the Governor issues a proclamation, May 2025 would be recognized as ME/CFS Awareness Month in New York.

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

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