WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) introduced the Fairness to Kids with Cancer Act of 2023 to adjust federal funding levels for pediatric cancer at a fairer percentage rate than the current system allows. The bipartisan legislation would ensure federal funds for pediatric cancer research match the same percentage of the number of Americans younger than eighteen years of age as part of the general population.
“More than 17,000 children in the United States are diagnosed with cancer each year,” said Congressman 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. 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.”
“I firmly believe that the day is drawing nearer when no child ever has to hear the words, ‘You have cancer’ again,” said Congressman Kelly. “The Fairness to Kids with Cancer Act will help in the fight to end pediatric cancer.”
“September marks the start of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. With recent studies heartbreakingly showing childhood cancer diagnoses on the rise in the US, it has never been more imperative that we ensure pediatric cancer researchers have the necessary funding to save the lives of kids afflicted with cancer.” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “As a mother and Congressional leader, I am proud to be an original co-sponsor on this legislation and join my colleagues by reintroducing this life saving legislation, the Fairness to Kids with Cancer Act.”
“Cancer can be so devastating at any age, and it can be especially difficult for kids diagnosed with it and their families," said Congressman Evans. "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.”
“Pediatric cancer is a cruel, horrific disease that has touched far too many families, including my own. There are children behind every statistic, and now, with the bipartisan Fairness to Kids with Cancer Act, federal investment will finally be equitably distributed to pediatric cancer research to help give parents and children hope for a cure," said Congressman Gottheimer. “With New Jersey leading the way in cutting-edge research and life sciences, this boost in investment will help our state continue to play a key role in finding cures and saving the lives of kids in Jersey, nationwide, and around the world."
“No parent or child should have to face the pain of pediatric cancer, but we must do everything in our power to keep hopes high and find a cure,” said Congresswoman Lee. “Washington needs to do its part in funding a key area of life-saving research that has been historically neglected. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan legislation with Rep. Fitzpatrick to ensure that federal funding is properly allocated to match our children’s health needs. No family should be left alone in the fight against pediatric cancer.”
Read the text of the Fairness to Kids with Cancer Act of 2023 HERE.
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