Assemblymember Diane Dixon Introduces Resolution Recognizing Rare Disease Day in California

SACRAMENTO – February 23, 2026 – Today, Assemblymember Diane Dixon introduced Assembly Concurrent Resolution 132 (ACR 132), which recognizes February 28, 2026, as Rare Disease Day in California. The resolution reaffirms California’s commitment to raising awareness, supporting individuals and families affected by rare diseases, and promoting policies that enhance research, treatment, and access to care.

While individual conditions are considered rare, rare diseases collectively impact over 30 million Americans – roughly 1 in 10 individuals. Creating hardships for children and families, rare diseases often take years to diagnose, and once diagnosed, patients are faced with the reality that over 90% of rare diseases lack FDA-approved treatments.

“Patients with rare diseases face extraordinary challenges that most Californians never see,” said Assemblymember Dixon. “From delayed diagnoses that can take years to limited treatment options, these families navigate a complex healthcare system largely alone. By recognizing Rare Disease Day, California is taking an important step to shine a light on these struggles and renew our commitment to finding solutions.”

“California Life Sciences is proud to support ACR 132 and Assemblymember Dixon’s leadership on behalf of patients suffering from rare diseases,” said Mike Guerra, President and CEO of California Life Sciences. “California has always been a trailblazer in groundbreaking research and innovation in rare disease treatments. Recognizing Rare Disease Day is an important step in raising awareness and fostering the collaboration as we work to accelerate research on behalf of those living with rare diseases.”

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