CS/SB 578 — Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Initiative
by Children, Families, and Elder Affairs Committee and Senator Simon
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Children, Families, and Elder Affairs Committee (CF)
The bill establishes a statewide Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Initiative to improve public education, outreach, and access to information for individuals affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Specifically, the bill:
- Requires the Department of Elderly Affairs (DOEA) to contract for the development and implementation of an Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Initiative. The initiative is intended to provide information and support to residents affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias and promote awareness using information validated by national research.
- Requires the initiative to include a website and educational resources addressing topics such as early detection, brain health, risk reduction, research developments, and available community services. It must also incorporate the DOEA Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Resource Guide and promote health care provider education in partnership with the Department of Health.
- The bill requires public awareness activities, including advertising and a statewide mobile outreach program prioritizing underserved communities, and requires the DOEA to contract with a qualified statewide nonprofit organization to implement the initiative.
- The Alzheimer’s Disease Advisory Committee must annually evaluate the initiative and provide funding recommendations to the department and the Legislature.
These provisions became law upon approval by the Governor on July 1, 2026.
Vote: Senate 38-0; House 112-0