News
Bipartisan Knock Out Cancer Act Aims to Transform Cancer Research Landscape
Pictured, left to right: Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick and Debbie Dingell
Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), co-chair of the House Cancer Caucus, and Debbie Dingell (D-MI), have jointly introduced the Knock Out Cancer Act (KO Cancer Act) in the 118th Congress. This bipartisan legislation seeks to revolutionize cancer research funding by allocating a 25 percent increase to the National Cancer Institute's budget for the fiscal years 2024 through 2028. The initiative is a response to the pressing need for research funding that aligns with current cancer mortality rates, ensuring a more effective and targeted approach to combating the disease.
Originally introduced in the 117th Congress with a focus on funding, the newly proposed legislation for the 118th Congress also addresses the critical issue of cancer drug shortages. The bill mandates a comprehensive study, led by the Secretary of Health and Human Services in collaboration with relevant agencies, to explore the root causes of these shortages, including economic factors, supply chain failures, delays in drug development and FDA approval, and a lack of generic drugs and biosimilar biological products.
This legislative proposal marks a renewed commitment to the war on cancer, echoing the spirit of the National Cancer Act signed over 50 years ago. If enacted, the KO Cancer Act could usher in a new era of progress in cancer research. AACI stands ready to raise awareness of the bill through advocacy and outreach.