H.Res. 178 is being considered on the floor under suspension of the rules, requiring a two-thirds majority vote for passage. This legislation was introduced by Representative Bill Pascrell (D-NJ) on February 13, 2009.
H.Res. 178 resolves that the House of Representatives:
• "Supports the designation of an appropriate month as National Brain Injury Awareness Month; and
• "Urges the President to issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States, Federal departments and agencies, States, localities, organizations, and media to annually observe a National Brain Injury Awareness Month with appropriate ceremonies and activities."
The Brain Injury Association of America has recognized March as Brain Injury Awareness Month. According to the resolution's findings, traumatic brain injury is a leading cause of death and disability among children and young adults in the United States, with at least 1.4 million Americans sustaining a traumatic brain injury each year. Additionally, 3.17 million Americans currently live with permanent disabilities resulting from a traumatic brain injury. Traumatic brain injury is also a common wound in the global war on terrorism, as a result of roadside bombs and blasts.
