Commemorating July of 2025 as "Fragile X Awareness Month" in the State of Rhode Island

WHEREAS, In July of 2000, the United States Congress designated July 22 as National Fragile X Awareness Day; and

WHEREAS, Fragile X Syndrome is a genetic disorder that can cause intellectual disability, behavioral challenges and physical abnormalities, and is the most common cause of inherited intellectual disability and the most commonly known genetic cause of autism or autism spectrum disorders; and

WHEREAS, Over 1.5 million Americans are carriers of an FXS mutation and over 100,0 Americans have Fragile X syndrome; and

WHEREAS, The genetic defect causing Fragile X has been discovered and is easily identified by DNA testing; however, even within the medical community, it frequently goes undetected due to its rare nature and the lack of awareness about the syndrome; and

WHEREAS, Fragile X is the best key to solving autism, and treatments for Fragile X are likely to help people who have Alzheimer’s or other brain disorders; and

WHEREAS, Fragile X Syndrome Month is a time to celebrate families and individuals impacted by Fragile X and to raise awareness and highlight the advances in research that will find effective treatments and ultimately a cure; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby commemorates July of 2025 as “Fragile X Awareness Month” in the State of Rhode Island and urges all Rhode Islanders to become aware, share information, and advocate for advancements in research and treatment for individuals, and support for the families, affected by Fragile X Syndrome; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to the National Fragile X Foundation (NFXF), and Little Rhody Warriors.