An Act to Make May Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Month
Summary
LD 321 is a simple commemorative resolution-style public law that designates the month of May as Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Month in Maine. The bill directs the Governor to issue an annual proclamation encouraging residents to observe the month with appropriate activities. It does not create a benefits program, regulatory scheme, or funding mechanism; instead, it establishes an official state recognition intended to raise awareness of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare neurodegenerative disorder.
The measure amends Maine law by adding a new section to Title 1, section 150-V, which is the part of state law used for state observances and commemorative months. Its practical effect is to place PSP alongside other recognized awareness months in Maine and to authorize an annual gubernatorial proclamation each May. The bill became law without the Governor’s signature and was enacted as Public Law chapter 81 in 2025.
Impact
LD 321 adds a new state observance to Maine law by creating 1 MRSA §150-V, formally designating May as Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Month. The bill affects state government only in a limited ceremonial way, requiring the Governor to issue an annual proclamation, but it does not impose duties on private parties, alter eligibility for services, or change substantive rights or obligations under existing law.
Sentiment
The available record suggests the bill was noncontroversial and likely received broad support, as there are no recorded committee transcripts, floor debates, or votes indicating opposition. Its enactment without the Governor’s signature further suggests it was treated as a routine awareness measure rather than a contested policy change. Overall sentiment appears positive and supportive of disease awareness and public recognition.
Contention
No notable points of contention are reflected in the available materials. Because the bill is a symbolic designation of an awareness month, any discussion would likely have centered on whether state recognition is appropriate or necessary, but no opposition, fiscal concerns, or policy disputes are documented in the provided record. The absence of recorded votes or committee testimony indicates little to no visible disagreement.
A resolution expressing support for the designation of the month of May 2026 as "Progressive Supranuclear Palsy and Corticobasal Degeneration Awareness Month".