1.0" ?> 20250SR__001398ENR 98 INTRODUCED 2025-01-29 PASSED_SENATE 2025-03-20 ENROLLED 2025-03-21 2025 0 SR 13 ENR Introduced by Senator Archuleta LEAD_AUTHOR SENATE Archuleta Relative to Stiff Person Syndrome Awareness. Stiff Person Syndrome Awareness

WHEREAS, Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) is a rare neurological autoimmune disorder that affects one in a million people; and

WHEREAS, SPS is a terminal condition and there is no known cure; and

WHEREAS, SPS affects all ages and all racial and ethnic groups; and

WHEREAS, SPS predominantly affects more females than males; and

WHEREAS, SPS affects a person’s central nervous system and motor skills; and

WHEREAS, SPS causes heightened sensitivity to stimuli, muscle stiffening and spasms, diminished posture, and impaired mobility; and

WHEREAS, Many people with SPS either never receive a proper diagnosis or remain undiagnosed; and

WHEREAS, Early diagnosis of SPS allows patients to access treatment and support from health professionals; and

WHEREAS, Increased research into SPS may lead to a better understanding of the syndrome, more effective treatments, and an eventual cure for the syndrome; and

WHEREAS, Recently discovered treatments, including the use of autologous stem cell transplant, are improving the quality of life for individuals with SPS, but many symptoms associated with the syndrome remain untreated; and

WHEREAS, Patients suffering from SPS often suffer embarrassment due to abnormal and involuntary movements, which leads them to withdraw from society and increasingly isolate themselves as the disease progresses; and

WHEREAS, The Senate can raise awareness of SPS in the public and the medical community; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, That the Senate supports raising awareness and educating the public about SPS and applauds the efforts of advocates and organizations that encourage awareness, promote research, and provide education, support, and hope to those impacted by SPS; and be it further

Resolved, That the Senate recognizes the commitment of researchers, health professionals, and others dedicated to finding an effective treatment and cure for SPS; and be it further

Resolved, That the Senate recognizes March 15, 2025, as International Stiff Person Syndrome Awareness Day, and thereby proclaims that March 15, 2025, is Stiff Person Syndrome Awareness Day throughout California; and be it further

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.