Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that affects approximately 30,000 individuals in the United States at any given time, with 5,000 new cases diagnosed each year. The disease progressively disconnects the brain from the muscles, leading to loss of mobility, speech, eating ability, and eventually breathing. On average, individuals diagnosed with ALS survive only two to five years post-diagnosis. There is no cure for ALS, and it can affect anyone, though military veterans are about twice as likely to develop the disease. The ALS Association has invested over $154 million in research to find a cure and improve the quality of life for those living with ALS.

The resolution declares May of 2024 as "ALS Awareness Month" in the State of Rhode Island, with the aim of raising public awareness, showing support for those affected, and recognizing the efforts to find a cure. The House of Representatives urges citizens to educate themselves about ALS and combat the disease. Additionally, the Secretary of State is directed to send a certified copy of the resolution to the Rhode Island Chapter of the ALS Foundation, further emphasizing the state's commitment to the cause.