The Florida House of Representatives has introduced House Resolution HR 8057, which designates August 10, 2026, as "Tay-Sachs Disease Awareness Day" in the state. Tay-Sachs disease is a severe genetic disorder caused by the absence of the enzyme beta-hexosaminidase A, leading to progressive neurological deterioration in affected infants. These children typically fail to meet developmental milestones, experience muscle weakness, and may suffer from blindness, seizures, and difficulty swallowing, with many not surviving past the age of four. The resolution highlights the importance of raising awareness about the disease, which currently has no cure and only symptom management options.

The resolution also notes that the carrier rate for Tay-Sachs disease is approximately 1 in 250 individuals, with a 25 percent chance of a child being affected if both parents are carriers. By designating a specific day for awareness, the resolution aims to promote education and understanding of Tay-Sachs disease, potentially leading to advancements in research that could uncover the genetic causes and pave the way for future treatments or a cure.