"BETTER HEARING & SPEECH MONTH"

SM005

SENATE MEMORIAL 5

57
th legislature
- STATE OF NEW MEXICO -
second session
, 2026

INTRODUCED BY

Harold Pope

A MEMORIAL

REQUESTING THAT THE GOVERNOR DESIGNATE THE MONTH OF MAY 2026 AS
"BETTER HEARING AND SPEECH MONTH".

WHEREAS, more than fourteen million Americans suffer
speech, language and hearing impairments that can limit
academic achievement, career advancement and social adjustment
for those who do not receive effective treatment; and

WHEREAS, these communication disorders can be present at
birth or can be caused through accidental injury or illness at
any age; and

WHEREAS, one in ten New Mexico families is affected by
communication disorders; and

WHEREAS, those affected deserve access to quality
treatment and every opportunity to lead full and productive
lives; and

WHEREAS, with the help of dedicated and skilled
professionals, most people with speech, language and hearing
problems can find treatment and learn strategies to help them
cope, live more independently and achieve their potential; and

WHEREAS, speech-language pathologists and audiologists
treat all types of speech, language and related disorders and
work in a wide variety of health and education settings to help
improve the quality of treatment and increase the opportunities
for people with speech, language and hearing problems to lead
full and productive lives;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE
OF NEW MEXICO that the governor be requested to designate the
month of May 2026 as "Better Hearing and Speech Month" in New
Mexico; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this memorial be
transmitted to the governor and the New Mexico speech-language
and hearing association.

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