Congress Considers NIH Funding Boost for Research

We wanted you to know that right now, Congress is negotiating and debating the size of an increase in funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH). We urge you to keep an eye on this important debate; it could affect medical research funding – and particularly pediatric cancer funding - in the months and years ahead.

There is no doubt that our country is in critical need of a solution to its worst economic crisis in recent history. Congress is currently debating how - and how much - to spend to stimulate our economy and start us on the road to recovery.

Part of the debate includes funds to support critically needed medical research. The debate includes two separate proposals; a bill passed by the House of Representatives, which includes $3.5 billion for NIH, and a bill approved in the Senate that could provide $10 billion for NIH. Negotiations to reconcile these two competing proposals are now underway in committee.

The increased funding for NIH would not only make lifesaving medical discoveries possible, it would provide thousands of jobs nationwide. Spread the word that you would like to see this NIH funding passed soon, to hasten the day when more children with cancer can be guaranteed the gift of a long and happy life.