WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03) and Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA-02) introduced a resolution expressing support for the goals and ideals of National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, which occurs each May.
In addition to recognizing the National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, the resolution recognizes efforts to improve access to hearing, balance, speech, language, swallowing, and cognitive care.
Communication disorders are among the most common conditions of children and adults, affecting tens of millions in the U.S., and when undiagnosed, can negatively impact academic, employment, and social success, as well as quality of life.
“This May, I’m proud to introduce this resolution with Congressman Carter, my fellow co-chair of the Unified Voices Caucus,” said Congresswoman Cammack. “Last year when we launched this caucus and shed light on the importance of communication disorders, we saw the outpouring of support from Americans who rely on audiologists and speech-language pathologists for everyday care. It’s important that people know they aren’t alone and there are champions in Congress who recognize their challenges and support their journeys to overcome them. I look forward to continuing our great work to bring awareness to these issues and the policies that promote diagnosis and treatment.”
“National Speech-Language-Hearing Month highlights the critical work of audiologists and speech-language pathologists in diagnosing, treating, and preventing speech, language, hearing, and swallowing disorders,” said Rep. Carter. “The rising prevalence of hearing loss emphasizes the need for improved access to specialized care and intervention services. I am committed to addressing the stigma surrounding communication disorders like stuttering through increased resources and support. This resolution promises to promote awareness, improve access to care, and advocate for policies that enhance the quality of life for individuals affected by speech, language, and hearing challenges. Thank you, Congresswoman Cammack, my co-chair of the Unified Voices Caucus, for leading with me on this important effort.”
“The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association applauds Representative Cammack and Representative Carter for their leadership in highlighting and addressing issues facing individuals with communication disorders, including stuttering, as co-chairs of the Unified Voices Caucus,” said 2024 ASHA President Tena McNamara, AuD, CCC-A/SLP. “ASHA looks forward to partnering with them to raise awareness about these issues and identify polices to improve access to appropriate diagnosis and treatment provided by audiologists and speech-language pathologists.”
“National Stuttering Awareness Month provides an opportunity to recognize the unique challenges people who stutter face and the importance of ensuring they have access to health care services and resources they need,” said Change & Impact Founder & CEO, and NBA veteran, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. “As a person who stutters, I am especially grateful for the leadership that U.S. Representatives Kat Cammack and Troy A. Carter, Sr. have demonstrated as co-chairs of the Unified Voices Caucus. I look forward to continuing our work together to raise awareness and advocate for those who stutter.”
Congresswoman Cammack and Congressman Carter serve as the co-chairs of the Bipartisan Unified Voices Caucus, which launched in December 2023.
