Alabama’s Role in Shaping Federal Cancer Research Funding

With the onset of the 2026 Health Budget Bill in the U.S., lawmakers in Alabama, alongside cancer research advocates, are actively working to influence future federal funding for cancer research and prevention.

On Monday, the U.S. House Committee on Budget unveiled the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Bill. This legislation is aimed at providing funding to crucial institutions like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This bill received positive feedback from a Health and Human Services subcommittee chaired by U.S. Representative Robert Aderholt on Tuesday evening. It’s now proceeding to the full appropriation committee for further consideration.

Notably, the House version of the bill proposes increased funding for the NIH’s National Cancer Institute while simultaneously suggesting an overall cut of about 1% to the NIH budget. It also includes plans to reduce the CDC’s cancer prevention program.

The House Committee has proposed a total budget of $47.8 billion for the NIH, with the National Cancer Institute receiving $7.3 billion for fiscal 2026—an increase of $48 million from the previous year.

This House iteration follows a Senate committee’s earlier budget request, which suggested an increase of $400 million for the 2025 budget, with $150 million earmarked specifically for cancer research.

The Senate’s recommendation deviates from the White House Office of Management and Budget’s earlier proposal, which suggested an annual budget for the NIH of $27.9 billion—along with a significant cut of 37% for the National Cancer Institute.

Prior to the subcommittee markup, Aderholt expressed his support for the House spending bill, emphasizing its importance in managing federal spending, particularly regarding health, education, and labor initiatives. He stressed the need to use taxpayer dollars wisely.

“This subcommittee is responsible for the largest non-defense spending in the federal government,” he stated in a written comment. “This gives us an opportunity to reassess spending priorities to ensure critical services are maintained.”

Meanwhile, subcommittee ranking member Rosa Delauro, a Democrat from Connecticut, and her colleagues criticized the draft bill from a Republican perspective, describing it as an attack on public education and essential health treatments.

“House Republicans are looking to limit funding for crucial health initiatives,” Delauro remarked, highlighting the ongoing debates around NIH and CDC funding.

The bill was reported favorably, largely adhering to the party lines with a vote tally of approximately 11-7.

The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network has been actively advocating against cuts proposed by the Trump administration earlier this year.

Before the subcommittee meeting, Jane Adams, the government relations director for ACS CAN in Alabama, shared her satisfaction with the push for increased funding for the National Cancer Institute. However, she voiced concerns over the cuts to the CDC’s cancer prevention funding.

“In Alabama, where we see high rates of breast and cervical cancer, CDC funding for early detection is crucial,” Adams noted.

The House bill allocates $7.4 billion to the CDC for fiscal 2026, reflecting a $1.7 billion reduction compared to 2025, which might jeopardize funding for tobacco control and other essential preventive health services.

Dr. Ankur Saxena, a pediatric cancer researcher from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, expressed concerns over the cuts but noted his preference for the Senate’s version of the spending bill.

“It’s a mixed bag of news. While any funding is better than none, it’s not as reassuring as it should be,” he commented, weaving in a visual metaphor to emphasize that there’s a long journey ahead.

Adams professed confidence that advocacy efforts would resonate with Alabama’s federal lawmakers, referencing R-ALA Senator Katie Britt’s support for NIH funding.

She mentioned that ACS CAN is actively engaging with key legislators to ensure robust investments in cancer research remain a priority.

Adams highlighted recent initiatives, stating, “ACS CAN has really ramped up its advocacy efforts, collaborating with individuals who have been affected by cancer in Alabama.”

“We want to elevate public awareness. This issue transcends politics; it’s about healthcare and its impact on our lives,” she added, referencing a grassroots event aimed at garnering support.

Many attendees of the event were unaware of the proposed funding cuts until informed, even linking the issue personally to family members impacted by cancer, showcasing the event’s potential for raising awareness.

Saxena noted the turnout of young individuals was a significant success, as it allowed them to engage with ongoing discussions about cancer research and funding.

He recognized this engagement as an essential step in preparing younger generations for challenges related to health issues in their families and communities.

Invitations for the event were extended to members of the Alabama Legislative Delegation and relevant local officials, emphasizing the event’s goal to unite various stakeholders in advocacy.

ACS CAN has also been running an advertising campaign, placing signs along Interstate 65 near Montgomery and Birmingham, urging Congress to safeguard federal cancer research funding as part of a broader national effort.

Looking ahead, Adams outlined plans for further advocacy trips to Washington and events aimed at rallying support for cancer funding, insisting that they will maintain their momentum despite the challenges posed by cuts.

“Our dialogue with lawmakers is ongoing, and we remain vigilant about ensuring that vital funds for cancer research are not diminished,” she concluded.

Meanwhile, Saxena hopes to build on the advancements made in cancer research funding, stressing the importance of perseverance in these endeavors.

“It takes time to cultivate and establish meaningful progress, and we can’t afford to let it be dismantled in an instant,” he stated, expressing hope that leaders in the legislative sector will commit to protecting these crucial investments.