Senator Jack Reed in Response to OncoDaily About Pediatric Cancer Funding

Senator Jack Reed has emphasized the vital importance of pediatric cancer research, which has long been a national priority. In January, OncoDaily highlighted a critical issue in pediatric oncology funding after a government deal came under scrutiny following Elon Musk’s criticism on social media. Musk referred to the bill as a “Christmas tree,” arguing that it contradicted conservative principles.

Amid growing pushback, key provisions, including the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act 2.0 and the Give Kids a Chance Act, were stripped from the final bill. These measures would have allocated $190 million for pediatric cancer and rare disease research at the NIH. Despite bipartisan support, they became casualties of a broader spending battle, raising concerns about the future of pediatric oncology research.

The fallout has sparked debate among lawmakers, advocacy groups, and public figures about responsibility and how to ensure pediatric cancer remains a priority. The funding loss raises urgent questions about the nation’s commitment to fighting pediatric cancer and preventing research setbacks due to political disputes.

Recognizing the significance of this issue, OncoDaily decided to write and send an article to U.S. senators, urging them to take action and ensure that pediatric cancer research remains a national priority. In addition to highlighting the impact of the funding cuts, OncoDaily sought clarity on key legislative decisions by posing the following questions to lawmakers:

What were the main reasons the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act and other related provisions were delayed or put on hold during earlier sessions?
Why were key measures, such as those in the Give Kids a Chance Act, ultimately omitted from the final spending package?
Are there plans or strategies under consideration to restore or enhance funding for pediatric cancer research in the near future?

Senator Jack Reed’s Response

Senator Jack Reed responded to OncoDaily’s outreach by reaffirming his commitment to pediatric cancer research and federal investment in childhood cancer treatment. Senator Jack Reed highlighted his long-standing support for key federal agencies and legislative initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for children with cancer.

source: politico.com

“Childhood cancer research has progressed in recent years, but according to the American Cancer Society, cancer remains the second leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 14,” Reed stated. “To further research, expand child-centered treatment options, and improve resources for families affected by childhood cancer, I have consistently supported the work of federal agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).”

Reed emphasized his advocacy for federal funding to support pediatric cancer programs, noting that he joined colleagues in sending a letter to the Senate Appropriations Committee in support of full funding for Fiscal Year 2025.

Senator Jack Reed also highlighted the bipartisan Childhood Cancer Survivorship, Treatment, Access, and Research (STAR) Act, which he co-authored and introduced with Senator Shelley Moore Capito in 2018. The law, reauthorized in 2023, has allocated hundreds of millions of dollars toward childhood cancer research, treatment advancements, and survivorship programs. “Specifically, it ensures the federal government expands funding to research childhood cancers, explores effective treatment options, identifies and tracks childhood cancer rates, and enhances the quality of life for childhood cancer survivors,” Reed explained.

Additionally, Reed mentioned the recent reintroduction of his Innovation in Pediatric Drugs Act, which aims to accelerate research and treatment development for rare pediatric diseases. “This bipartisan legislation would accelerate research and treatment advances for rare diseases that affect children, as drugs must be specifically studied for the unique health needs of kids in order to be safely used,” he stated.

While Reed’s response demonstrated his dedication to pediatric cancer research and treatment, it did not address broader issues related to cancer research or adult oncology funding. His focus remained on ensuring federal investment in childhood cancer programs and advancing treatment options for young patients.

OncoDaily will continue to monitor and investigate this issue, ensuring that discussions surrounding medical research funding, including pediatric cancer initiatives, remain at the forefront.