Albany, NY – Today, New York takes a groundbreaking step in public health with the implementation of Ch. 573 of 2024 (A5803B/S4674A), a landmark law that establishes a statewide Parkinson’s disease registry. This crucial legislation, which Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon proudly co-sponsored, will enhance research, improve patient care, and help identify patterns of Parkinson’s disease across the state.

By requiring healthcare professionals and hospitals to report cases of Parkinson’s disease and related conditions to the New York State Department of Health, the registry will create a comprehensive database that supports medical research, public health initiatives, and patient advocacy efforts.

“As a co-sponsor of this bill, I am incredibly proud to stand with New Yorkers living with Parkinson’s disease,” said Assemblywoman Buttenschon. “This first-ever statewide Parkinson’s registry will provide vital data to researchers, physicians, and policymakers, helping us better understand the disease, identify risk factors, and ultimately work toward a cure.”

With more than one million Americans diagnosed and cases rapidly increasing, Parkinson’s disease is now the fastest-growing neurological disorder in the world. Yet, there is no national registry tracking its spread, leaving gaps in research and resources for patients and caregivers.

By creating this statewide registry, New York joins a growing movement to improve data collection, enhance early detection, and drive progress toward more effective treatments. The registry will:

• Provide researchers with accurate data to identify high-risk populations and study environmental or genetic triggers.
• Help the state develop better healthcare policies to support individuals living with Parkinson’s.
• Connect patients with emerging clinical trials and treatment options that could improve their quality of life.
• Ensure transparency in reporting, while allowing patients to opt-out if they wish.

“This law is about turning data into action,” Buttenschon continued. “By better understanding who is affected, where cases are increasing, and what factors may contribute to the disease, we can help New York become a leader in Parkinson’s research and patient care.”

Assemblywoman Buttenschon worked alongside lead sponsor Assemblymember Amy Paulin and a coalition of bipartisan lawmakers to ensure this life-changing legislation became law. The bill received overwhelming support in both the New York State Assembly and Senate before being signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul on December 13, 2024.

Starting today, healthcare professionals and hospitals across the state are required to report cases of Parkinson’s disease and related conditions to the New York State Department of Health. The collected data will help the state:

• Identify trends and disparities in Parkinson’s cases.
• Improve healthcare planning and resources for patients and caregivers.
• Support ongoing scientific research to develop better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

“New York is leading the charge in fighting this devastating disease,” said Buttenschon. “With this registry, we are empowering scientists, supporting families, and creating a future where Parkinson’s is better understood, better treated, and, one day, cured.”

New Yorkers diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease will receive notification about the registry and can choose to opt-out if they wish. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to review the reporting guidelines to ensure compliance with the new law.