Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) has reached across the aisle to introduce the Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization Act of 2024. The bill “reauthorizes funding for critical research and awareness efforts at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on the causes, prevention, and development of better treatments for patients suffering with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD).”
According to Rep. Bilirakis’ press release, congenital heart disease is the most common birth defect as approximately 40,000 babies are born with the condition every year.
The Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization Act of 2024 would extend the National Congenital Heart Disease Research, Surveillance, and Awareness program through Fiscal Year 2029.
Representatives Darren Soto (D-FL), Buddy Carter (R-GA), and Adam Schiff (D-CA) alongside Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Todd Young (R-IL) joined forces to introduce the legislation.
Rep. Bilirakis mentioned that this bill would bring us “one step closer” to improving the lives of those with the disease.
"As a co-founder of the Congenital Heart Caucus, I’ve become familiar with the struggles patients with congenital heart disease and their families face. Our legislation will bring us one step closer to enhancing better treatment options and improving outcomes for all patients suffering with this condition. We’ve seen that this program yields positive results, and I urge my colleagues to join us as we work to help future generations live longer, healthier lives," said Bilirakis.
Rep. Soto added, “I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization Act of 2024. It is crucial that we continue advocating for heart disease research and support monitoring programs,” said Congressman Soto.
Rep. Carter stated that this legislation is one of his top priorities.
“Patients battling congenital heart disease (CHD) deserve the highest quality care and treatments. By reauthorizing this critical funding for research and awareness, we can save lives and improve quality of life for the millions of children and adults who live with CHD. As a health care professional, ensuring that all individuals have the best health outcomes possible is one of my top priorities, and this bill helps us realize that goal,” said Rep. Buddy Carter.
Rep. Schiff thanked Bilirakis for his contributions to the bill.
“The Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization will support critical research, education and awareness for congenital heart disease (CHD) which remains a leading cause of infant mortality,” said Rep Schiff. “This bipartisan effort underscores our commitment to a future where every individual with CHD has the support and resources to thrive beyond their diagnosis. I thank Rep. Bilirakis and look forward to getting this bill reauthorized because there is still more we need to do to help these families.”
Congressman Bilirakis represents Florida’s 12 District.
