Senator Blakespore championed awareness for tardive dyskinesia (TD) during the California State Senate session on May 8, 2025, successfully passing Senate Concurrent Resolution 68. This resolution designates the week as Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week, aiming to shed light on a condition that affects approximately 600,000 adults in the U.S., with around 70% remaining undiagnosed.

In his passionate address, Senator Blakespore highlighted the challenges faced by individuals with TD, a motor disorder often linked to antipsychotic medications used to treat serious mental illnesses. He emphasized the importance of education and awareness to combat stigma and ensure that those suffering receive the support they need. "Every time we raise awareness about an illness or condition like TD, we bring attention to it, help provide support to those with it, and drive the development of new treatments," he stated.

The senator also pointed out that certain communities, including older adults and people of African descent, are at a higher risk for developing TD. He called for routine screening for patients on antipsychotic medications, noting that effective treatments are available to manage symptoms.

Blakespore's resolution aligns with Mental Health Awareness Month in May, reinforcing the need for understanding and support for mental health issues. The senator concluded by recognizing the vital role of California's life sciences industry in developing new therapies, urging continued support for NIH funding critical to advancing treatment options for TD and other conditions.

The resolution received unanimous support, passing with 36 votes in favor, marking a significant step toward increasing awareness and understanding of tardive dyskinesia in California.