National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act Passes US House of Representatives, Named After Bilirakis' brother

"What happened on Dec 14, 2023 that was a historic bi-partisan success for Parkinson's disease? Today, in a vote of 407 to 9 a bill passed in the House of Representatives; the National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act HR2365. This bill will cover PSP and other parkinsonisms. It was named for Florida representative Gus Bilirakis' brother Dr. Emmanuel Bilirakis and Virginia representative Jennifer Wexton living with PSP Also, Representative Paul Tonko led the bipartisan effort. BRAVO for working together, and truly impacting lives. Michael J Fox and 30 other PD related organizations like the Parkinson's Foundation signed on to support this. On to the Senate...and the President!" - Dr. Michael Okun (University of Florida Health, Dystonia Researcher,  Executive Director Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases)

https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/2365

Passed House (12/14/2023)

Dr. Emmanuel Bilirakis and Honorable Jennifer Wexton National Plan to End Parkinson's Act

This bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to carry out a project to address Parkinson's disease (a progressive brain disorder that causes unintended or uncontrollable movements) and related conditions.

Among other components of the project, HHS must (1) implement and periodically update a national plan to coordinate and guide efforts to prevent, diagnose, treat, and cure the disease; and (2) improve the care of those with the disease. HHS must also annually assess the preparations for and response to the increased burden of Parkinson's disease.

In addition, the bill establishes a council, comprised of federal and nonfederal stakeholders, to advise HHS on and make recommendations concerning the prevention and treatment of Parkinson's disease.

The provisions of the bill terminate at the end of calendar year 2035.