Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 19, 2025, as World Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Day in the State of New York

This Senate Resolution (J 196) asks Governor Hochul to officially recognize June 19, 2025, as "World Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Day" in New York State. It does not create new laws or programs but formally requests the Governor issue a proclamation to highlight sickle cell disease, a chronic blood disorder affecting approximately 10,000 people in New York (80% in NYC). The resolution cites the disease's severe health impacts - including stroke risks, organ damage, and high Medicaid costs ($15,000/year per patient) - and notes it disproportionately affects Black and African American communities. The resolution is symbolic, aiming to increase public awareness, not to enact policy changes.