Bill Summary
This resolution calls for the designation of May as "National Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease and Conditions Awareness Month." It highlights the growing epidemic of Lyme disease and the fact that it has no known cure and is difficult to diagnose. The resolution emphasizes the need for increased education, research, and prevention methods to combat Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. It also encourages individuals living in or visiting vulnerable areas to be vigilant about checking for ticks and taking preventative measures. Overall, the resolution aims to increase public knowledge and awareness of these diseases and conditions and promote the search for cures through research.
Possible Impacts
1. People with Lyme disease may feel more supported and recognized by the government if May is officially designated as "National Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease and Conditions Awareness Month."
2. Those living in areas where ticks and Lyme disease are prevalent may feel more informed and empowered to take preventative measures after learning about the comprehensive approach proposed in the legislation.
3. Families of individuals who have been affected by Lyme disease may feel a sense of hope and encouragement knowing that the government is actively working towards finding cures through critical research.
[Congressional Bills 116th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 412 Introduced in House (IH)]
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116th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. RES. 412
Supporting the designation of May as ``National Lyme and Tick-Borne
Disease and Conditions Awareness Month''.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
May 30, 2019
Mrs. Hartzler (for herself, Mr. Smith of New Jersey, Mr. Peterson, and
Mr. Sires) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to
the Committee on Oversight and Reform
_______________________________________________________________________
RESOLUTION
Supporting the designation of May as ``National Lyme and Tick-Borne
Disease and Conditions Awareness Month''.
Whereas there are an estimated 300,000 new cases of Lyme disease annually,
putting undue burden and suffering on countless individuals and
families;
Whereas Lyme disease is a rapidly growing epidemic and ticks that transmit Lyme
disease are found in half of all United States counties and about 80
countries worldwide;
Whereas Lyme disease has no known cure and is difficult to diagnose;
Whereas Lyme disease poses a significant threat to our communities, especially
when coupled with other tick-borne illnesses and conditions such as
alpha-gal allergy, Babesiosis, Heartland virus, Tularemia, and STARI;
Whereas symptoms are often mistaken for common illnesses but can affect the
nervous system, the heart, and joints, leading to arthritic symptoms,
paralysis, encephalitis, seizures, and death if left untreated;
Whereas a comprehensive approach utilizing increased education and more research
on Lyme and other tick-borne diseases and conditions and their vectors
can lead to significant advancements;
Whereas individuals and families should seek out and be aware of best practices
for the prevention of tick bites and Lyme and other tick-borne diseases
and conditions;
Whereas individuals living in or visiting wooded and other vulnerable areas
should check themselves and their loved ones for ticks each day;
Whereas spring marks the beginning of increased tick-bite activity; and
Whereas May would be an appropriate month to designate as ``National Lyme and
Tick-Borne Disease and Conditions Awareness Month'': Now, therefore, be
it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives supports the
designation of ``National Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease and Conditions
Awareness Month'' to increase public knowledge of Lyme and other tick-
borne diseases and conditions, raise awareness about the prevention of
tick bites, and advance the vision of finding cures through critical
research.
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