Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

H.R.es72 - Expressing support for the designation of January 30, 2025, as CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) and RHI (repeated head impacts) Awareness Day. (119th Congress)

Summary

H.Res.72 is a resolution introduced in the House of Representatives expressing support for designating January 30, 2025, as CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) and RHI (repeated head impacts) Awareness Day. The resolution aims to raise awareness about CTE and RHI, recognize researchers and those affected, and encourage the CDC and NIH to publish information on these conditions.

The resolution acknowledges the causal link between repeated head injuries and CTE, the damage RHI causes to developing brains, and the buildup of tau protein in brains with CTE. It also notes the prevalence of CTE and RHI among athletes, military veterans, and survivors of domestic abuse and epilepsy.

Ultimately, the resolution encourages the people of the United States to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities that promote awareness of CTE and RHI.

Expected Effects

If passed, this resolution would formally express the House of Representatives' support for CTE and RHI Awareness Day. This could lead to increased public awareness and potentially more funding for research and support services.

The CDC and NIH might be prompted to include information on CTE and RHI in their concussion education materials, further disseminating knowledge about these conditions. It could also encourage individuals and organizations to participate in awareness activities.

However, as a resolution, it does not have the force of law and does not mandate any specific actions or funding allocations.

Potential Benefits

  • Increased public awareness of CTE and RHI, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and intervention.
  • Recognition of researchers and those affected by CTE and RHI, providing support and encouragement.
  • Potential for increased funding for research and support services related to CTE and RHI.
  • Encouragement for the CDC and NIH to include information on CTE and RHI in their educational materials.
  • Promotion of appropriate ceremonies and activities to observe CTE and RHI Awareness Day.

Potential Disadvantages

  • The resolution itself has no legal authority and does not guarantee any concrete actions or funding.
  • Increased awareness could lead to anxiety or concern among individuals involved in activities with a risk of head trauma.
  • The focus on CTE and RHI might divert attention or resources from other important health issues.
  • There may be limited resources to effectively implement awareness campaigns and support services.
  • The resolution does not address the underlying causes of head trauma or propose specific prevention strategies.

Constitutional Alignment

This resolution appears to align with the general welfare clause of the US Constitution, as it aims to promote public health and awareness of a medical condition. While the Constitution does not explicitly address health awareness days, supporting such initiatives falls within the implied powers of Congress to promote the general welfare.

Furthermore, the resolution does not infringe upon any specific rights or liberties guaranteed by the Constitution or its amendments. It does not establish any religious preference (Amendment I), nor does it infringe on the right to bear arms (Amendment II) or any other enumerated right.

Therefore, the resolution seems to be constitutionally sound, as it does not violate any specific provisions and aligns with the broader goal of promoting the well-being of the American people.

Impact Assessment: Things You Care About

This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).