Policy Resolution HHS-24-25

WHEREAS, Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or lupus is a chronic, complex, and often disabling autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the body’s own cells, tissues, and organs;

WHEREAS, SLE can affect many parts of the body including the joints, skin, brain, heart, lungs, and kidneys;

WHEREAS, Lupus nephritis, or LN, is a serious manifestation of lupus that causes inflammation of the kidneys;

WHEREAS, LN can lead to irreversible kidney damage or even kidney failure, which may require dialysis or a transplant;

WHEREAS, prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for patients with SLE and LN;

WHEREAS, SLE and LN disproportionately impact women and patients of color;

WHEREAS, according to the Lupus Foundation of America, Lupus is three times more common in African American women than in Caucasian women; and

WHEREAS, too many SLE and LN patients in the U.S. and especially marginalized patients face harmful delays in diagnosis and treatment.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL), urges all states to conduct studies to determine the prevalence, impact, and needs of individuals with lupus and those with lupus nephritis in their respective states;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that these studies shall specifically determine: the prevalence, by geographic location, of individuals diagnosed with lupus and LN; the availability and affordability of screening services for lupus and LN; the frequency in which lupus patients are screened for LN; the treatment infrastructure for lupus and LN; and the unmet medical, psychological, and social needs encountered by individuals with lupus and LN;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the studies be submitted to the state legislatures in a timely manner and include actionable recommendations to address identified shortcomings; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States, the Vice President of the United States, members of the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate, and other federal and state government officials as appropriate

• Resolution ID: HHS-24-25
• Sponsored by: Rep. Vivian Flowers (AR)
• Policy Committee: Health and Human Services (HHS)