Sponsors (2)
The resolution increases public recognition and reinforces professional standing for speech, language, and hearing services, but it is symbolic and does not provide new funding or enforceable rights, so concrete benefits depend on follow-on policy or funding actions.
Patients and students with communication disorders (and the schools, hospitals, and clinicians who serve them) gain reinforced professional recognition because the resolution affirms ASHA's role and standards, which supports consistent licensure, provider qualifications, and consumer protections nationwide.
People with communication disorders (and the public that interacts with them) get greater visibility and reduced stigma because May is designated National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, which can increase screening, early intervention, and spur policymaker and funder attention.
People with communication disorders and service providers receive only symbolic recognition because the resolution is largely ceremonial and does not create new funding, entitlements, or enforceable legal rights.
Families, schools, and health systems may face unmet expectations as raised awareness creates pressure for expanded services and supports without any specified funding, potentially shifting burdens onto local providers and budgets.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Designates May as National Speech-Language-Hearing Month and recognizes ASHA’s national role in licensure, advocacy, and awareness of communication disorders.
Official title: Commemorating the centennial year of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
Introduced November 18, 2025 by Christopher Van Hollen · Last progress November 18, 2025
Designates May as National Speech-Language-Hearing Month and formally recognizes the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) as the national professional, scientific, and credentialing association representing roughly 241,000 members, certificate holders, and affiliates. The resolution highlights ASHA’s role in setting licensure standards nationwide, its advocacy for disability- and communication-related laws, the prevalence of communication disorders, and the importance of reducing stigma and raising public awareness.