Bill Summary – FastDemocracy

ENROLLED ORIGINAL

                               A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION

                                            25-214

                   IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

                                          May 7, 2024

To recognize the first week of May 2024 as “Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week.”

       WHEREAS, Many people with serious mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder,

major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder, or gastrointestinal

disorders, including gastroparesis, upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting, may be treated with

medications that work as dopamine receptor blocking agents, including antipsychotics and

antiemetics;

        WHEREAS, While ongoing treatment with these medications can be necessary, prolonged

use is associated with tardive dyskinesia (TD), an involuntary movement disorder that is

characterized by uncontrollable, abnormal and repetitive movements of the face, torso, limbs, and

fingers or toes;

      WHEREAS, Even mild symptoms of TD can impact people physically, socially and

emotionally;

       WHEREAS, It is estimated that TD affects approximately 600,000 people in the U.S., and

approximately 65 percent of people with TD have not been diagnosed, making it important to raise

awareness about the symptoms;

      WHEREAS, The American Psychiatric Association recommends that people taking these

medications be regularly screened and monitored for TD by a healthcare provider;

       WHEREAS, Clinical research has led to approval of treatments for adults with TD by the

U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and recognition and treatment of TD can make a positive

impact in the lives of many people experiencing psychotic and mood disorders; and

      WHEREAS, the Council of the District of Columbia can raise awareness of Tardive

Dyskinesia in the public and medical community.

        RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this

resolution may be cited as the “Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week Recognition Resolution of

2024.”

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                                                                     ENROLLED ORIGINAL

        Sec. 2. The Council of the District of Columbia hereby declares the week of May 5, 2024-

May 11, 2024, as “Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week”, and encourages anyone experiencing

uncontrollable, abnormal, and repetitive movements to consult their healthcare provider regarding

their symptoms.

       Sec 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.

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