Bill > SJR0812

This resolution, passed by both the Tennessee Senate and House of Representatives, officially designates May 17th as Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) Awareness Day in Tennessee. Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious and often fatal intestinal condition primarily affecting premature infants, though it can also occur in full-term babies. The resolution highlights that NEC causes severe inflammation leading to intestinal tissue damage and death, with survivors often facing lifelong complications. It also notes the significant financial burden of NEC and emphasizes that while breast milk and donor human milk are effective preventative measures, formula does not offer the same protection. The resolution acknowledges the vital role of parents as part of the infant's care team and calls for increased data collection to better understand NEC, particularly noting disparities that disproportionately affect Black infants. Finally, it recognizes the efforts of the NEC Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness, research, and advocacy for this devastating neonatal disease.

Health and Social Services

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/Default?BillNumber=SJR0812&ga=114