SR 103 is a Senate resolution proclaiming the first full week in May 2026 as Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week in California. The resolution explains that tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a movement disorder associated with prolonged antipsychotic use and that it can cause involuntary, repetitive movements affecting the face, torso, limbs, or extremities. It highlights the importance of early screening, detection, and intervention, especially for people with serious mental illnesses who are treated with antipsychotic medications.
The resolution also notes that certain groups are at higher risk for TD, including older adults, Black individuals, women, people with mood or substance use disorders, individuals with intellectual disabilities or central nervous system injuries, and those with high cumulative antipsychotic exposure. It references clinical guidance from the American Psychiatric Association recommending routine screening and points to FDA-approved treatments that may help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The measure is primarily educational and commemorative, aiming to raise awareness among health care providers, patients, and care partners about TD and the need for regular screening.
Impact
As a Senate resolution, SR 103 does not change California statutes, create regulatory requirements, or appropriate funds. Its legal effect is limited to formally designating a week of recognition and directing the Secretary of the Senate to transmit copies of the resolution. Its practical impact is to encourage awareness, education, and routine screening for tardive dyskinesia among clinicians and patients, particularly those receiving antipsychotic treatment.
Sentiment
The bill appears to have been received very positively and without controversy. It passed the Senate unanimously on a 40-0 vote, indicating broad bipartisan support. The coauthors from across the political spectrum further suggest that the resolution was viewed as a nonpartisan public health awareness measure.
Contention
There is little to no recorded contention around SR 103. No committee transcripts are available, and the only recorded vote was unanimous. Because the resolution is symbolic and educational rather than regulatory, there were no apparent disputes over mandates, costs, or changes to health care practice. The measure’s emphasis on mental health, antipsychotic use, and screening appears to have been broadly acceptable to senators.
Prohibits prior authorization or a step therapy protocol for the prescription of a nonpreferred medication on their drug formulary used to assess or treat an enrollee's bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or schizotypal.