The resolution, introduced by Senator Berman, designates August 2026 as Amblyopia Awareness Month in Florida. Amblyopia, the leading cause of vision loss in children, can result in permanent impairment if not identified and treated early in life. Early detection, particularly before the age of five, significantly increases the likelihood of successful treatment for amblyopia and other vision-threatening disorders. However, many forms of amblyopia are challenging to detect without proper screening techniques, and currently, less than 20 percent of preschool children undergo vision screenings, despite this service being covered by many health insurance plans.

The resolution emphasizes the importance of encouraging parents to have their children screened for vision problems prior to preschool admission. It highlights the need for statewide preschool vision screening initiatives, supported by organizations such as the Florida Society of Ophthalmology and the For Eye Care Foundation, with the aim of testing all children aged 3 to 5. By recognizing August 2026 as Amblyopia Awareness Month, the resolution seeks to raise awareness about the critical need for early detection and treatment of amblyopia and other childhood vision disorders.