Buffalo Ledger

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan, a Republican from Elma and the Ranking Member of the Senate’s Committee on Health, has announced that two bills he co-sponsored have been signed into law by the governor. These new laws aim to improve health services related to Parkinson's disease and Down syndrome.

The first piece of legislation, identified as S.4674A, establishes a statewide registry for Parkinson's disease. The purpose is to collect accurate data to enhance service delivery for individuals with Parkinson’s, identify high-risk groups, and assist researchers in their search for a cure. Parkinson’s is currently recognized as the fastest-growing neurological disorder in the United States, with cases doubling over the past 25 years and more than one million people affected nationwide.

“The U.S. does not have a Parkinson’s disease registry,” Senator Gallivan stated. “Several states have established their own registries, and New York should do the same to better support people living with Parkinson’s and to gather valuable data that can be shared with health care experts.”

The second bill, S.593A, introduces a Down syndrome awareness program that mandates doctors provide current and evidence-based information about Down syndrome to pregnant women and parents of infants diagnosed with the condition. According to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 6,000 babies are born each year in the United States with Down syndrome.

“It’s important for the State Health Department to develop educational materials and other resources that doctors can share with families facing a Down syndrome diagnosis,” Senator Gallivan remarked. “Children and parents deserve access to the best information and guidance available.”

Both pieces of legislation were passed by the legislature earlier this year and received gubernatorial approval on December 13, 2024.