IV 116th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 412 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES May 30, 2019 Mrs. Hartzler (for herself, Mr. Smith of New Jersey , Mr. Peterson , and Mr. Sires ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Oversight and Reform RESOLUTION Supporting the designation of May as National Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease and Conditions Awareness Month .

Whereas there are an estimated 300,000 new cases of Lyme disease annually, putting undue burden and suffering on countless individuals and families; Whereas Lyme disease is a rapidly growing epidemic and ticks that transmit Lyme disease are found in half of all United States counties and about 80 countries worldwide; Whereas Lyme disease has no known cure and is difficult to diagnose; Whereas Lyme disease poses a significant threat to our communities, especially when coupled with other tick-borne illnesses and conditions such as alpha-gal allergy, Babesiosis, Heartland virus, Tularemia, and STARI; Whereas symptoms are often mistaken for common illnesses but can affect the nervous system, the heart, and joints, leading to arthritic symptoms, paralysis, encephalitis, seizures, and death if left untreated; Whereas a comprehensive approach utilizing increased education and more research on Lyme and other tick-borne diseases and conditions and their vectors can lead to significant advancements; Whereas individuals and families should seek out and be aware of best practices for the prevention of tick bites and Lyme and other tick-borne diseases and conditions; Whereas individuals living in or visiting wooded and other vulnerable areas should check themselves and their loved ones for ticks each day; Whereas spring marks the beginning of increased tick-bite activity; and Whereas May would be an appropriate month to designate as National Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease and Conditions Awareness Month : Now, therefore, be it