Representing more than 60,000 federally funded scientists across the country in every state, the Coalition for the Life Sciences (CLS) urges Congress to finalize a budget agreement and pass an FY18 omnibus spending package.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is our nation’s preeminent medical research centers and represent our best hope for finding cures, improving treatments, and gaining a better understanding of the diseases and conditions that affect millions of Americans.
Thanks to the commitment of the House and Senate Appropriation leaders, support for the NIH has never been stronger. However, as Congress continues to drag out the budget and appropriations process, research conducted and supported by the NIH are at risk. The unpredictable nature of the current funding situation is completely disruptive to the entire research enterprise. Rather than undermine our investment in this national treasure the CLS recommends that Congress strengthen its commitment to medical research by finalizing a budget agreement that equally lifts the harmful budget and caps and, thus, create a pathway to increase funding for the NIH by at least $2 billion in FY18.
Predictable increases are necessary for maintaining a vigorous portfolio of basic, translational, and clinical studies. Medical research is facing a moment of exceptional opportunities. Federally funded scientific research is enabling the understanding of the remarkable complexity of human biology and disease. There is no other way to have reached our current level of understanding, and no other way to extend that understanding further other than through public investment.
The CLS looks forward to continue working with Congress to advance our national investment in scientific research by ensuring the NIH receives the necessary funding to continue its vital lifesaving mission “to enhance health, lengthen life, and reduce illness and disability.”
