Rep. Sweeney's bipartisan bill recognizing Eating Disorders Awareness Week passes the Ohio House

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney (D-Cleveland) today announced that House Bill (HB) 591 successfully passed the Ohio House of Representatives yesterday by a vote of 93 to 1. This bipartisan bill designates the last week in February as “Eating Disorders Awareness Week.” 

“Unfortunately, eating disorders are easily misunderstood and not taken as seriously as other life-threatening health issues,” said Rep. Sweeney. “This bill will raise awareness and declare for all 11.7 million Ohioans that eating disorders are serious illnesses, not lifestyle choices. By passing this bill, we are telling Ohioans who struggle with eating disorders that they are not alone, that their pain is not in vain, that they are loved and cared for, and most importantly, that they can get better.”

Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge Eating Disorder can be deadly and are increasingly common, especially among young women. According to the National Eating Disorders Association, eating disorders have the second-highest risk of death of any mental illness, second only to opioid addiction. 

HB 591 now awaits further consideration before the Ohio Senate.