In recognition of May as ARFID Awareness Month, Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. introduced a bill (S.9063) to add ARFID to the state’s official list of eating disorders. The aim is for people to promote greater understanding of this condition and get those affected the help they need.

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a true eating disorder caused by developmental differences, not simply “picky eating.” Some individuals with ARFID avoid food because of sensory sensitivities, fear of choking, or very low appetite. It is frequently accompanied by certain other disorders like autism, anxiety or OCD. 

Addabbo’s bill would formally include ARFID in the state’s definition of eating disorders, making finding and receiving care more accessible and efficient for those affected and their families. The renewed statute also updates older language by removing a reference to an outdated medical code (ICD-9-CM) so that the law better reflects contemporary medical knowledge. 

Historically, ARFID has been overlooked leading to a profound delay in diagnosis and treatment. By codifying ARFID in state law, the bill is intended to generate better-informed public knowledge and pathways to resources and treatment for ARFID. That alignment will assist healthcare providers, schools, and families collaborate to support impacted patients sooner. 

“ARFID is real, it’s treatable and it must be understood, not overlooked,” Senator Addabbo said. By putting ARFID into our state laws, we may immediately be able to link families to the appropriate resources, allowing each child to thrive. I believe it is very important that people are educated about ARFID which is a serious condition that can impact nutrition, growth and quality of life. Early identification and access to treatment can make a significant difference.”

“For too long, ARFID families have lived in the shadows of misunderstanding. Today, New York took a historic step into the light," said Connie Altamirano, Queens Community Leader and NYS ARFID Legislative Advocate. "As a Queens Community Leader and New York State ARFID Legislative Advocate, I fought to bring this issue forward because every child deserves to be seen, heard, and understood. This victory belongs to every child who struggled to eat, every parent who searched for answers, and every family who refused to give up hope. I am deeply grateful to Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. for sponsoring S9063A, and along with Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar for helping bring long-overdue recognition to ARFID in New York State. But this is only the beginning. I will continue to stand, fight, and advocate for New York State’s children and families until every child receives the support, understanding, and opportunities they deserve.”