Legislation authored by O’Brien to create a new pediatric cancer research fund moves through committee
STATEHOUSE (Jan. 22, 2025) – A bill authored by State Rep. Tim O’Brien (R-Evansville) to create a new grant program for pediatric cancer research unanimously passed committee and now moves on in the House of Representatives for further consideration.
O’Brien said through House Bill 1453, the Pediatric Cancer Research and Treatment Grant Program would focus on providing grant funding for innovative research into novel forms of treatment.
“House Bill 1453 aims to establish a dedicated pediatric cancer research and treatment grant program in Indiana. This initiative will fund innovative research and novel therapies to improve outcomes for children with cancer,” O’Brien said. “By creating this program, we can help ensure that Indiana’s children receive cutting-edge treatment and support. I’m proud to author this legislation and urge my colleagues to join me in supporting it this legislative session.”
According to the Indiana Department of Health, more than 300 new cases of pediatric cancer occurred each year in Hoosier children ages 0 to 19 between 2016 to 2020. Additionally, more than 30 children in Indiana died from cancer annually between 2016 to 2020.
According to the American Cancer Society, more than 9,000 children in the U.S. are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2025. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in children ages 1 to 14, and over 1,000 children under age 15 are expected to die from cancer in 2025.
O’Brien said by further funding pediatric cancer research, novel therapies developed in Indiana could have an impact not only in our state, but could also lead to treatments used throughout the U.S.
House Bill 1453 passed the House Public Health committee by a vote of 11-0 and now moves on for further consideration. To learn more about the bill and follow session, visit iga.in.gov.
