Fitzpatrick, Kelly offer bipartisan bill to equally fund pediatric cancer research

U.S. Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Mike Kelly (R-PA) on Sept. 12 proposed a bipartisan bill to ensure that a fair percentage of federal cancer research funds are dedicated to pediatric cancer research. 

“More than 17,000 children in the United States are diagnosed with cancer each year,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick, co-chair of the Congressional Cancer Caucus. “No child should ever have to suffer through the pain of cancer, nor should any parent have to watch their child struggle and fight to survive.”

The congressman sponsored the Fairness to Kids with Cancer Act of 2023, H.R. 5405, with five original cosponsors, including Rep. Kelly and lead original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans (D-PA), to adjust federal funding levels for pediatric cancer at a fairer percentage rate than the current system allows, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers. 

“I am proud to introduce the bipartisan Fairness to Kids with Cancer Act, which will ensure pediatric cancer researchers have necessary funding to combat and defeat pediatric cancer,” Rep. Fitzpatrick said.

If enacted, H.R. 5405 would ensure federal funds for pediatric cancer research match the same percentage of the number of Americans younger than 18 years of age as part of the general population, the summary says.

“I firmly believe that the day is drawing nearer when no child ever has to hear the words, ‘You have cancer’ again,” said Rep. Kelly. “The Fairness to Kids with Cancer Act will help in the fight to end pediatric cancer.”

Rep. Evans added that cancer is devastating at any age but may be especially difficult for kids diagnosed with it and their families. “I’m proud to cosponsor this bill from my Pennsylvania colleague that would help ensure an equitable amount of federal funding for pediatric cancer research,” he said.