Senate orders third reading of bill to expand public-health outreach on Alzheimer’s and dementia risk

Senator Williams (senator from Rutland) presented the committee substitute for S302, outlining an amendment that replaces the bill text after the enacting clause with language directing state agencies to develop and maintain electronic, print and in-person public education materials and programs on Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders.

"The department shall include information about the state plan on aging as well as resources and programs for prevention, care, and support for individuals, families, and communities," Williams recited while reading the amended sections.

Williams said the outreach effort should cover several specific areas including early-warning signs, benefits of early detection and timely diagnosis, validated assessment tools for younger-onset and other dementias, the role of family caregivers, Medicare care-planning billing codes for affected individuals, and ensuring language access services when appropriate. The bill requires materials to use nonclinical language and to emphasize cultural competence, specifically targeting populations at higher risk.

The committee’s record, as presented on the floor, indicates the Health and Welfare Committee voted the bill out and recommended amendment; following the presentation, the Senate voted by voice to order S302 for third reading. The transcript records an effective date provision of July 1, 2024.