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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Paul D. Tonko (D-NY) today cheered the advance of bipartisan legislation he championed alongside Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) that would unite the federal government in a mission to cure and prevent Parkinson’s disease.

Preceding the advance of the National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act out of the full Energy and Commerce Committee, Tonko spoke before the committee to highlight the importance of this legislation and thank Rep. Bilirakis, local and national advocates, and his colleague Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton who — following a diagnosis of Parkinson’s earlier this year that was later re-diagnosed as Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) — served as a powerful and dedicated advocate for the Parkinson’s community and for the National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act.

Tonko’s remarks read in part:

“In Congress, I have made helping those with neurological disorders one of my top priorities for more than a decade. I first learned about Parkinson’s from a friend who suffered with it. So when the opportunity arose to partner with Congressman Bilirakis on this meaningful effort I jumped right in and made it my personal mission to get this done on behalf of the millions of people living with Parkinson’s. 

“I understand that receiving a Parkinson’s diagnosis is truly devastating for individuals and their loved ones. It is incumbent on Congress to ensure Americans know they will be supported during this frightening and life-altering time. Our legislation does just that.

“To all my colleagues here thank you for your strong support and commitment to the Parkinson’s community. By moving this forward we will make a positive difference, improve lives and even save lives. And for the millions of Americans living with Parkinson’s, as well as their loved ones, I hope this brings much needed hope.”

Watch Tonko’s full remarks before the committee here.

Parkinson’s disease is the second most common — and fastest-growing — neurological disease globally with nearly 60,000 new cases diagnosed every year.

Modelled after the successful National Alzheimer’s Project, the National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act would alleviate financial and health burdens on American families, and reduce government spending over time. The bill will create an advisory council comprising members of federal agencies that supports research, care, and services for Parkinson’s, plus caregivers, patients, and other non-federal experts.