HARRISBURG – Legislation sponsored by Sen. Judy Ward (R-30) was passed by the Senate today to help the estimated 1.2 million Pennsylvanians living with rare diseases.
Act 14 of 2017 established the Pennsylvania Rare Disease Advisory Council (PARDAC) with a sunset date of 2025. Senate Bill 715 extends the sunset provision to 2028 and will enable the council to continue researching and raising awareness for those individuals struggling with rare diseases. A rare disease is a disease or condition that affects fewer than 200,000 people in the United States and more than 250 new rare diseases are identified annually.
“As a nurse, I know first-hand the impact a rare disease can have on someone and their loved ones and the daily challenges it can present” Ward said. “This community needs our help, and that is why the work of the PA Rare Disease Advisory Council could not be more necessary. Senate Bill 715 will build on the efforts of the Council and enable them to continue their amazing work.”
PARDAC was established to assist those across Pennsylvania who navigate through life with rare diseases, and it advocates for policies that directly impact Pennsylvanians living with rare diseases.
Senate Bill 715 received unanimous bipartisan support and now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
Residents can follow Ward on Facebook at Facebook.com/SenJudyWard and X (Twitter) @SenatorJWard for news about legislation and the 30th Senate District. Contact information for her district offices and other information can be found on her website at SenatorJudyWard.com, and constituents also can sign up for her e-newsletter at SenatorJudyWard.com/enewsletters.
CONTACT: Nathan Akers, 717-787-2421