The U.S. Senate on June 4 unanimously approved a bipartisan, bicameral bill sponsored by U.S. Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) that aims to help decrease aviation cancer rates among United States military service members.
The Aviator Cancer Examination Study (ACES) Act of 2025, S. 201, now heads back to the U.S. House of Representatives to be reconciled with the same-named companion bill, H.R. 530, led by Rep. Pfluger that passed the U.S. House on May 5.
“I am thrilled that the Senate acted with urgency and passed the ACES Act, which is my top priority in Congress,” said Rep. Pfluger. “The ACES Act is more than just a bill — it’s a lifeline for those who have already given so much for our freedom, and it’s a message to every pilot who has ever put on the uniform to protect our skies that we will fight to protect them in return.
“I look forward to moving this through the House once more and joining my colleagues at the White House to witness President Trump sign this vital bill into law,” the congressman added.
A May 2021 Air Force Cancer Incidence Study found that pilots and aircrews have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer and melanoma, with possible links to non-Hodgkin lymphoma and testicular cancer.
Rep. Pfluger, a colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, on Jan. 16 introduced H.R. 530 with lead original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), while U.S. Sens. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) on Jan. 23 led S. 201.
If enacted, the ACES Act would direct the U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to study cancer incidences and mortality rates among aviators and aircrews who served in the Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps to help improve understanding about the link between military service and cancer risks among veteran aviators, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Pfluger’s staff.