Indy Standard

The Indiana House of Representatives has passed a bill aimed at establishing a new grant program for pediatric cancer research. Authored by State Representative Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville), the legislation, known as House Bill 1453, seeks to provide funding for innovative research into new treatments for pediatric cancer.

O'Brien emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "House Bill 1453 would help expand critical pediatric cancer research and treatment in Indiana. This legislation would establish a dedicated grant program to support innovation and improve outcomes for children battling cancer, helping more families and kids get a fighting chance. I'm grateful for the strong support from my colleagues in the House and look forward to seeing this bill move forward in the Senate."

Data from the Indiana Department of Health indicates that between 2016 and 2020, over 300 new cases of pediatric cancer were reported annually among Hoosier children aged 0 to 19. During the same period, more than 30 children died from cancer each year in Indiana.

The American Cancer Society projects that over 9,000 children in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer in 2025. Cancer remains the second leading cause of death among children aged 1 to 14, with over 1,000 expected fatalities under age 15 anticipated in that year.

O'Brien noted that increased funding could lead to significant advancements not only within Indiana but potentially across the U.S., saying that novel therapies developed locally could have broader applications.

Having passed both the House Public Health Committee and House Ways and Means Committee, House Bill 1453 now advances to the Senate for further deliberation. Additional information about the bill can be accessed at iga.in.gov.