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Assembly proclaims April 2026 Parkinson's Awareness Month, cites rising caseload
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Summary
The California Assembly adopted ACR 160, introduced by Assemblymember Dr. Sharp Collins, proclaiming April 2026 Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month and calling for continued investment in research and data collection; the resolution drew floor remarks from patient advocates and was adopted by voice vote.
The California State Assembly on April 14 adopted Assembly Concurrent Resolution 160, declaring April 2026 Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month and urging renewed emphasis on research and patient supports. Assemblymember Dr. Sharp Collins introduced the measure, citing prevalence and research needs.
"Parkinson's disease is the fastest growing neurological disease in the United States, affecting more than 130,000 Californians," said Assemblymember Dr. Sharp Collins, who told colleagues the condition "remains underrecognized, underfunded, and too often left out of our broader public health priorities." She noted that AB 829, a voluntary tax contribution fund enacted last year, reflects the state's earlier steps to support research.
The resolution frames Parkinson's as both a public-health and an economic concern, emphasizing caregiver burdens and workforce impacts. Dr. Sharp Collins highlighted emerging scientific advances, including candidate biomarkers that could enable earlier detection, and said the Assembly should "lead with science-driven policy, strong oversight, and a commitment to protecting public health." She opened the roll for coauthors and the Clerk recorded 60 coauthors before the Assembly adopted the resolution by voice vote.
Advocacy organizations and individuals attended in the gallery. Assemblymember Dr. Sharp Collins specifically acknowledged representatives from the Michael J. Fox Foundation, the Parkinson's Association of Northern California, and the Parkinson's Association of San Diego for their work supporting patients and families.
The resolution is ceremonial and does not appropriate funds, but it signals the legislature's intent to prioritize research and coordination with state health agencies. The Assembly took the action by voice vote after adding co-authors; no recorded roll-call vote was required. The resolution was adopted and will be printed in the Assembly Journal.
The Assembly moved on to other business; no implementing legislation was adopted as part of this resolution on April 14.
