Us Congress House Bill HB1978

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/23
• Refer: 3/29/23
• Refer: 4/7/23

Caption

To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases for fiscal year 2024.

Impact

The passage of HB1978 would directly affect the overall funding capabilities of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. This limitation could potentially hinder research initiatives, patient support programs, and treatment cohorts, consequently impacting public health efforts associated with diabetes and related conditions. Stakeholders from healthcare sectors and research communities express concern that such funding caps could stifle innovation and slow advancements in treatment methodologies. The budget cuts may necessitate a reevaluation of ongoing projects and could postpone critical scientific research associated with these diseases.

Summary

House Bill 1978 aims to impose a limitation on the availability of funds for the Department of Health and Human Services, specifically targeting the National Institutes of Health's National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases for the fiscal year 2024. The bill specifies that the total funds authorized for this purpose shall not exceed $2,029,823,000. This legislative measure reflects ongoing budgetary concerns and fiscal management priorities regarding health-related funding. Proponents of the bill argue that fiscal accountability is paramount and that limiting spending is necessary given the current economic climate.

Contention

The bill has raised significant debate, particularly surrounding the implications of capping funds for essential health services. Critics emphasize that reducing funding for the NIH could lead to negative consequences on healthcare advancements and public health initiatives. Supporters counter that fiscal discipline is essential, especially in times of economic uncertainty, asserting that the government's primary role is to ensure responsible budgetary practices. This contention brings to light discussions about the balance between fiscal responsibility and the necessity for sustained investment in health research that addresses prevalent issues in society.