Matsui, Bilirakis, Pingree Introduce Life-Saving Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Bill

Statement

Today, Congressional Caucus to Cure Blood Cancers and Other Blood Disorders Co-Chairs Representatives Doris Matsui (D-CA) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), alongside Representative Chellie Pingree (D-ME), introduced H.R. 4764, the Timely ReAuthorization of Necessary Stem-cell Programs Lends Access to Needed Therapies (TRANSPLANT) Act. This legislation reauthorizes the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program and the National Cord Blood Inventory. Through renewed federal funding for the vital national bone marrow and cord blood registry and coordinating centers, which facilitate bone marrow and cord blood donations, the TRANSPLANT Act ensures the continued provision of lifesaving transplants to treat diseases like blood cancer, sickle cell anemia, and inherited metabolic or immune system disorders. Text of the bill can be found here.

"For the 1.3 million Americans fighting painful and potentially life-threatening blood cancer or bone marrow disorders, a successful transplant brings hope and a second chance at life," said Congresswoman Doris Matsui, (D-CA). "Reauthorizing the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program, the "Be a Match' National Registry, and the National Cord Blood Inventory are critical in connecting patients with donors and funding life-saving research to eradicate these devastating diseases. I am proud to introduce the TRANSPLANT Act so we can continue to support patients in need and those willing to give the gift of life."

"This bill is about providing hope to those who are struggling with life-threatening illnesses. This federal program provides critical support in the advancement of research for better treatments and the infrastructure necessary to organize registries which help ensure transplant patients have access to life saving procedures. Its reauthorization is vital, and I hope our colleagues will join us in expediting passage of this important legislation," said Congressman Gus Bilirakis, (R-FL).

"Every year, more than 17,000 people are diagnosed with illnesses where bone marrow and cord blood donations can quite literally save their lives," said Congresswoman Chellie Pingree, (D-ME). "I'm proud to be a lead sponsor of the TRANSPLANT Act, which will help secure and expand the work being done by the national donor registry and find matches for as many patients as we can."

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