COLUMBUS – Senate President Keith Faber (R-Celina) announced the Senate’s passage of legislation to increase awareness for Krabbe disease, an inherited disorder that damages the brain and nervous system.

If enacted, House Bill 62 would designate the second week of September as “Krabbe Disease Awareness Month.” Krabbe disease is a genetic disorder that destroys the protective coating of nerve cells in the brain and nervous systems and manifests itself in symptoms that include muscle spasms, loss of head control, unexplained crying and feeding difficulties.

“I became aware of Krabbe disease when one of my constituents, Mrs. Chasse Layton, lost her daughter Madison to the condition before her second birthday,” said Faber. “I was inspired to act on behalf of the Layton family and countless others who have endured great loss.”

Currently, the only effective way to combat Krabbe disease is to detect it early. Faber introduced an provision into the state operating budget to include screening for Krabbe disease in the newborn screening program conducted by the Ohio Department of Health.

House Bill 62 passed the Senate with strong bipartisan support and now goes to the governor for his signature.