Washington, D.C., March 4, 2026 — More than 350 advocates from across the country gathered at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday to raise awareness and champion policy changes for those affected by Tourette Syndrome (TS) and other Tic Disorders. The annual Tourette National Advocacy Day, organized by the Tourette Association of America (TAA), brought together individuals living with TS, families, medical professionals, and supporters to meet with lawmakers and share personal stories.

The event featured a diverse group of advocates, including TS advocate and TLC star Baylen Dupree and country music artist Travis Bolt, along with over 100 TAA-trained Jr. Youth Ambassadors, Youth Ambassadors, Rising Leaders, and their families. Members of the TAA Board of Directors and national office staff also participated.

Advocates urged Congress to support increased research funding, improve access to healthcare, and strengthen protections for the TS and Tic Disorder community. Among TAA’s 2026 congressional priorities were:

• $2.5 million in continued funding for the Public Health Education and Research Program on Tourette Syndrome at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

• Sustained funding for medical research at the National Institute of Health’s National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).

• Co-sponsorship of the Safe Step Act (H.R. 5509/S.2903), which streamlines step therapy protocol appeals to ensure patients access the safest, most effective treatments.

• Full funding support for the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP).

“Advocacy is critical to provide help, hope, and resources to the TS community,” said Jay Nichols, TAA’s Vice President of Public Policy. “By sharing their stories and meeting with lawmakers, our advocates worked to ensure that Congress continues maintaining its bipartisan support on behalf of individuals with TS and other Tic Disorders.”