The Bill To End Parkinson’s

“The most comprehensive, boldest, widespread piece of legislation specific to Parkinson’s disease ever introduced in the history of the U.S. congress.” — Ted Thompson, SVP Public Policy, The Michael J. Fox Foundation

A national plan to end Parkinson’s has the potential to:

• Dramatically increase federal research funding;

• Develop more effective pathways for treatments and cures;

• Improve early diagnosis;

• Spark new and improved models for patient care;

• Create standards and measures to prevent Parkinson’s disease;

• Address health disparities in diagnosis, treatment and clinical trial participation; and

• Enhance public awareness of the disease.

The public-private advisory council created as part of this legislation will report every year to Congress on their progress and impact in ending Parkinson’s. This is the kind of forward-looking strategy and responsible accountability the Parkinson’s community needs and deserves.

The National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act (H.R.8585) will, for the first time, unite the federal government and private enterprise in a mission to prevent and cure Parkinson’s, alleviate financial and health burdens on American families, and ensure those living with the disease have access to the care they need.

This bipartisan legislation is led by Representative Paul Tonko (D-NY) and Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL). The PD Avengers (Global Alliance to End Parkinson’s Diseas), The Michael J. Fox Foundation, members of UPAC (United Parkinson’s Advocacy Coalition) and Parkinson’s community are thankful for their leadership.

What’s Next?

The bill needs to pass the U.S. House and U.S. Senate and then signed by the President of the United States. Click video below to learn how a Bill becomes a Law.