S.1609 - Ellie Helton, Lisa Colagrossi, Kristen Shafer Englert, Teresa Anne Lawrence, and Jennifer Sedney Focused Research Act; Ellie’s Law (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1609, also known as Ellie's Law, is a bill introduced in the Senate to provide funding for comprehensive research on unruptured intracranial aneurysms at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). The bill authorizes appropriations of $10,000,000 per year for fiscal years 2026 through 2030, totaling $50,000,000, to remain available through September 30, 2033.
The bill highlights the prevalence and impact of brain aneurysms, citing statistics on the number of people affected and the high fatality rate associated with ruptures. It also includes personal stories of individuals who have died from ruptured brain aneurysms to emphasize the human cost of this condition.
The bill aims to improve understanding, management, and treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms through further research, particularly focusing on a broader patient population diversified by age, sex, and race.
Expected Effects
If enacted, Ellie's Law would provide significant funding for research into unruptured intracranial aneurysms. This could lead to improved detection methods, better treatment options, and ultimately, a reduction in the number of deaths and disabilities caused by ruptured brain aneurysms.
The increased research could also lead to a better understanding of risk factors and potential preventative measures. This would allow for more targeted interventions and improved patient outcomes, especially for women and minority populations who are disproportionately affected.
Potential Benefits
- Increased funding for brain aneurysm research at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
- Potential for improved detection, treatment, and management of unruptured intracranial aneurysms.
- Better understanding of risk factors and preventative measures.
- Reduced mortality and disability rates associated with ruptured brain aneurysms.
- Focus on diversifying the patient population studied to include age, sex, and race.
Potential Disadvantages
- The bill's fiscal impact will increase government spending, potentially adding to the national debt.
- There is no guarantee that the research will yield significant breakthroughs or improvements in patient outcomes.
- The funding may divert resources from other important areas of medical research.
- The bill does not address the underlying causes of brain aneurysms or offer preventative strategies beyond research.
- The bill's focus on research may not directly address the immediate needs of individuals currently living with unruptured brain aneurysms.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the US Constitution, particularly the provision in the Preamble to "promote the general Welfare." Congress has the power to allocate funds for research and public health initiatives. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 (the Spending Clause) grants Congress the power to collect taxes and provide for the general welfare of the United States. This bill falls under that purview as it allocates funds for medical research, which directly contributes to public health.
There are no apparent conflicts with individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights. The bill does not infringe upon freedom of speech, religion, or any other constitutionally protected right.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).