CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE— 2025–2026 REGULAR SESSION

98

Introduced by Senator Weber Pierson

April 30, 2026

Relative to Lupus Awareness Month.

WHEREAS, Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation as the immune system attacks healthy tissue across various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, blood, heart, and kidneys, and the immune system loses its ability to distinguish between foreign substances and the body’s healthy cells and tissue; and

WHEREAS, Lupus directly affects 1,500,000 people in the United States. Each year thousands of people are newly diagnosed with lupus, 90 percent of which are women. Lupus disproportionately affects people of color, and it is more prevalent among African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, and Asians than it is among Caucasians; and

WHEREAS, Lupus is difficult to diagnose because its symptoms come and go, mimic those of other diseases, and there is no single test that can definitively identify the disease. Yet early diagnosis and treatment usually lessen the progression and severity of the disease and are vital to preserving health and preventing further complications, organ damage, and death; and

WHEREAS, The California Lupus Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit health agency that provides programs and support for lupus patients, family members, and care givers since 1976, raises awareness of the signs and symptoms of Lupus, and promotes education, research, social support, and quality medical care for Californians who live with, or care for, someone who struggles with this disease; and

WHEREAS, The State of California is committed to recognizing and honoring individuals and organizations, including the California Lupus Foundation, that are dedicated to the best ideals of public service; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, That May 2026 is hereby recognized as Lupus Awareness Month; and be it further

Resolved, That the California Lupus Foundation is commended for its outstanding service, leadership, and commitment to the citizens of California; and be it further

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.