Assembly Resolution No. 1321

BY: M. of A. Rules (Santabarbara)

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
September 18, 2026, as Concussion Awareness Day in
the State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
official days that are set aside to increase awareness of serious health
issues that affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and

WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to memorialize
Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 18, 2026, as Concussion
Awareness Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with National
Concussion Awareness Day; and

WHEREAS, Concussions are a form of traumatic brain injury that can
result from a blow or jolt to the head or body and can affect
individuals of all ages, particularly children, adolescents, athletes,
military personnel, and older adults; and

WHEREAS, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate
that millions of concussions occur annually in the United States, many
of which go unreported or untreated, increasing the risk of long-term
cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments; and

WHEREAS, Repeated or improperly managed concussions have been linked
to serious long-term health consequences, including chronic traumatic
encephalopathy (CTE), memory loss, depression, and other neurological
disorders; and

WHEREAS, Early recognition, proper diagnosis, and appropriate
medical management of concussions are critical to reducing the risk of
further injury and promoting full recovery; and

WHEREAS, Increasing public awareness about concussion prevention,
symptoms, treatment, and return-to-activity protocols can help protect
the health and safety of New York State residents, particularly student
athletes and youth participating in sports and recreational activities;
and

WHEREAS, New York State has demonstrated a strong commitment to
public health, injury prevention, and youth safety through education,
legislation, and community outreach initiatives; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this day be observed by encouraging schools,
healthcare providers, athletic organizations, community groups, and
residents throughout the State of New York to increase education,
awareness, and advocacy surrounding concussion prevention, recognition,
and treatment; and be it further

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 18, 2026, as
Concussion Awareness Day in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York.