The Rhode Island General Assembly has introduced a resolution to proclaim May 2026 as "ALS Awareness Month" in the state. This initiative, led by Senator Victoria Gu, aims to raise public awareness about Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease that affects approximately 30,000 individuals in the U.S. at any given time. The resolution highlights the urgency of addressing ALS, which currently has no cure and significantly impacts the lives of those diagnosed, with an average survival rate of only two to five years post-diagnosis. It emphasizes the importance of access to new therapies, medical equipment, and clinical trials in improving the quality of life for ALS patients.

The resolution calls on the citizens of Rhode Island to educate themselves about ALS and support efforts to combat the disease. It acknowledges the increased risk of ALS among military veterans and recognizes the contributions of the ALS Association, which has invested over $162 million in research to find a cure. The Senate urges all residents to participate in raising awareness and supporting those affected by ALS, and it directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to ALS United RI.