This House resolution asks Congress to designate May 2026 as “Arthritis Awareness Month.” It describes arthritis as a group of more than 100 rheumatic diseases that affect joints and connective tissue, and it lists health and economic facts included in the text: about 60,000,000 adults and about 300,000 children have diagnosed arthritis, arthritis is a leading cause of physical disability, it limits daily activities and work for many people, and arthritis costs the economy about $304,000,000,000 each year. The resolution recognizes the Arthritis Foundation’s efforts to improve access to care and marks the Foundation’s 75th anniversary. The resolution was introduced on May 11, 2026 by Representative Debbie Dingell and was referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
The resolution expresses support and raises public awareness. It does not, in its text, create new programs, change benefits, or authorize spending. It signals congressional recognition of the impact of arthritis on adults, children, and veterans, and it highlights the Arthritis Foundation’s role.
The resolution cites estimates about the economic impact of arthritis: about $304,000,000,000 total annually, including $140,000,000,000 in direct medical care costs and $164,000,000,000 in lost wages. The resolution itself does not authorize or specify new federal spending.
As stated in the resolution, supporters want to raise awareness of how common and disabling arthritis is, recognize the needs of people living with arthritis (including veterans and children), and honor the Arthritis Foundation’s work to improve access to care and its 75th anniversary.
No publicly available information.