The resolution highlights the significant impact of rare diseases in the United States, where nearly 7,000 conditions affect a collective 25 to 30 million Americans, including approximately 750,000 residents of Washington state. Despite the Food and Drug Administration's approval of treatments for over 880 rare disease indications, many individuals still lack access to effective therapies. The resolution emphasizes the challenges faced by patients and families, such as delays in diagnosis, difficulty in finding medical expertise, and the burden of funding research and raising awareness for less-known rare diseases.

In recognition of these challenges, the Washington state Senate commends the ongoing efforts to find cures for rare diseases and encourages all residents to acknowledge the struggles of those affected and their families. The resolution calls for a commitment to compassionate care and scientific discovery, underscoring the importance of initiatives like the Orphan Drug Act, which has fostered the development of biopharmaceuticals for rare diseases. It also notes that Washington is home to many leading institutions and companies engaged in this vital research.