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SR 3281

SENATE RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING MAY 2026 AS "FIBROMYALGIA AWARENESS MONTH" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Pete Appollonio and 9 co-sponsors

Rhode Island designates May 2026 as Fibromyalgia Awareness Month and May 12 as Fibromyalgia Awareness Day to boost understanding, reduce stigma, and support affected individuals.

05/12/2026 Senate read and passed
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Bill Summary · SR 3281

Summary of Bill: SR 3281 (Rhode Island, 2026)

Purpose

  • Officially recognize May 2026 as “Fibromyalgia Awareness Month” in the State of Rhode Island.
  • designate May 12, 2026 as “Fibromyalgia Awareness Day.”

Key Provisions

  • The resolution declares and acknowledges fibromyalgia as a chronic condition affecting the central nervous system, characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties, and related symptoms.
  • It notes the following context and aims:
    • Fibromyalgia often goes undiagnosed and can take years to obtain a proper diagnosis.
    • Medical professionals may have insufficient education about current research, diagnosis, and treatment.
    • Public awareness and education can reduce stigma, encourage support, and promote earlier recognition and access to care.
  • The resolution urges Rhode Island residents, organizations, healthcare professionals, researchers, advocates, caregivers, and community leaders to:
    • Increase awareness and understanding of fibromyalgia.
    • Support individuals living with the condition.
  • Administrative action:
    • The Secretary of State is authorized to transmit a certified copy of the resolution to the National Fibromyalgia Association.

Who/What Is Affected

  • Indirectly affects:
    • General public in Rhode Island, by elevating awareness of fibromyalgia.
    • Healthcare professionals and institutions, through emphasis on education and awareness.
    • Fibromyalgia patients and caregivers, by promoting recognition and understanding.

Procedural/Timeline Details

  • Introduced by Senator Melissa A. Murray on May 12, 2026.
  • Referred to “Recommended for Immediate Consideration,” indicating a fast-tracked status within the Senate.
  • No fiscal impact or regulatory changes are proposed; this is a symbolic and educational acknowledgment.
  • Effective action occurs upon adoption of the resolution by the Rhode Island Senate, with its formal transmission to the National Fibromyalgia Association by the Secretary of State.

Why It Matters

  • Serves as an official state-level acknowledgment of fibromyalgia, aiming to reduce stigma and improve public understanding.
  • Encourages collaboration among healthcare providers, researchers, advocates, and communities to support those affected and to promote better access to care.

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

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