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SR 759

SENATE RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING MARCH OF 2025, AS "COLORECTAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bob Britto and 9 co-sponsors

Rhode Island designates March 2025 as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month to boost public awareness and screening; a ceremonial resolution recognizing advocacy and prevention access.

03/11/2025 Senate read and passed
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Bill Summary · SR 759

Summary: Senate Resolution SR 759 — Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month (Rhode Island, 2025)

Overview

SR 759 is a Rhode Island Senate resolution proclaiming March 2025 as "Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month" in the state. The resolution recognizes the burden of colorectal cancer, promotes education and early detection through screening, and acknowledges the advocacy work of the American Cancer Society and health professionals.

Purpose and Intent

  • Officially designate March 2025 as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in Rhode Island.
  • Promote public awareness about colorectal cancer, the importance of regular screening, and early detection as critical to improving survival rates.
  • Honor and build on ongoing advocacy for colorectal cancer prevention, screening, and treatment access, including past efforts by Rhode Island lawmakers and medical organizations.

Key Provisions

  • Declares March 2025 as "Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month" in the State of Rhode Island.
  • Authorizes the Secretary of State to transmit duly certified copies of the resolution to:
    • The American Cancer Society
    • Dr. Jonathan A. Leighton, MD, FACG, American College of Gastroenterology
  • Contains supportive preambular statements outlining the impact of colorectal cancer, the benefits of screening, and the role of public education in reducing deaths.

Background and Context

  • The resolution cites national and state statistics to underscore the impact of colorectal cancer:
    • Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Rhode Island and nationwide.
    • Early detection through screening significantly improves survival (about 90% vs. ~10% if undetected).
    • Regular screening can detect pre-cancerous polyps and prevent cancer.
  • References advocacy and policy milestones, including the American Cancer Society’s efforts and the “Maryellen Goodwin Colorectal Cancer Screening Act,” which mandated full coverage for preventive screenings and colonoscopies.
  • Mentions Rhode Island legislators and healthcare partners in supporting awareness and screening initiatives.

Affected Parties

  • Rhode Island residents (public health awareness).
  • Medical community and other health organizations involved in cancer prevention and screening.
  • The American Cancer Society and Dr. Jonathan A. Leighton (acknowledged recipients of certified copies).

Procedural/Timeline Aspects

  • Introduced: March 11, 2025.
  • Referred to: Recommended for Immediate Consideration.
  • Status: Senate read and passed on March 11, 2025.
  • As a resolution, it serves as a ceremonial expression of recognition and does not create new legal obligations or funding.

Sponsors

  • Primary sponsor: Senator Murray
  • Additional sponsors: Senators Ruggerio, Lauria, Vargas, Ujifusa, Felag, E. Morgan, Britto, Raptakis, and Urso

This resolution is a ceremonial acknowledgment intended to raise awareness and encourage public engagement with colorectal cancer prevention and screening efforts in Rhode Island.

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

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