H.R.es385 - Expressing support for the designation of May 2, 2025, as NKH Awareness Day. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.Res.385 is a resolution introduced in the House of Representatives expressing support for designating May 2, 2025, as "NKH Awareness Day." The resolution aims to raise public and medical community awareness of Nonketotic Hyperglycinemia (NKH), a rare genetic metabolic disorder. It highlights the impact of NKH on affected individuals, particularly children, and emphasizes the potential benefits of increased awareness, such as increased research and improved diagnoses.
The resolution acknowledges that NKH affects approximately 1 in 76,000 people worldwide and that there are only approximately 500 diagnosed cases globally. The resolution notes that increased awareness may result in increased research, participation in NKH patient registries, and diagnoses of NKH cases.
Ultimately, the resolution seeks to bring attention to this rare condition and encourage further action to support those affected by NKH.
Expected Effects
The resolution, if passed, would formally express the House of Representatives' support for NKH Awareness Day. This could lead to increased media coverage and public discussions about NKH. It may also encourage further research funding and support for patients and families affected by the condition.
While the resolution itself does not allocate funding or create new programs, it serves as a symbolic gesture of support. It could influence future legislative actions related to rare diseases and healthcare.
Passage of this resolution could lead to increased collaboration among researchers, healthcare providers, and patient advocacy groups.
Potential Benefits
- Increased awareness of NKH among the general public and medical professionals.
- Potential for increased research funding and resources dedicated to NKH.
- Improved diagnosis rates and earlier intervention for individuals with NKH.
- Enhanced support networks and resources for patients and families affected by NKH.
- Greater understanding and empathy towards individuals living with rare diseases.
Potential Disadvantages
- The resolution is largely symbolic and does not guarantee concrete action or funding.
- It may not reach a wide audience beyond those already involved in the NKH community.
- The impact on research and treatment may be limited without additional legislative or financial support.
- There are no direct disadvantages, but the benefits are heavily reliant on subsequent actions and follow-through.
- The resolution may create a false sense of progress without tangible improvements in care or research.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to promote public health and well-being by raising awareness of a rare disease. Specifically, the preamble to the Constitution states the goal to "promote the general Welfare." This resolution can be seen as a small step towards that goal.
Furthermore, the resolution does not infringe upon any specific rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments. It is a non-binding expression of support and does not establish any laws or regulations.
Therefore, the resolution does not appear to conflict with any constitutional principles.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).