The Senate and the House last night approved $138 million in FY 2008 funding for the Department of Defense peer-reviewed Breast Cancer Research Programs (DOD BCRP), created in 1991 as a result of the National Breast Cancer Coalition's advocacy. The appropriated funding is a $10.5 million increase over FY 2007’s $127.5 million appropriation.
“This funding increase is a major victory for the continuation of innovative and significant breast cancer research,” said Fran Visco, president of the National Breast Cancer Coalition (NBCC). “The DOD BCRP was launched in 1992 in response to the NBCC's campaign for increased federal funding for quality breast cancer research. Across the nation, women and men with breast cancer and their families look to this program for cutting-edge breast cancer research. Thanks to the resilient advocacy of NBCC's network, this exceptional program will continue to receive the funding it deserves."
DOD BCRP enjoys strong bipartisan support in both Chambers. When Senate and House Conferees were reviewing the bill, 194 Representatives signed a letter to Conferees urging them to increase DOD BCRP’s funding. Earlier this year, 56 Senators signed a letter to Appropriators requesting continued funding for this Program.
“NBCC recognizes Representatives Lowey (D-NY), Davis (R-VA), McGovern (D-MA) and Biggert (R-IL) for their leadership on the House Conferee letter—and thanks Senators Harkin (D-IA), Snowe (R-ME), Leahy (D-VT), Specter (R-PA) and Collins (R-ME) for their leadership on the Senate Appropriator letter,” continued Ms. Visco.
The bill will now be sent to President Bush for his signature.
About NBCC
The National Breast Cancer Coalition is a grassroots organization dedicated to ending breast cancer through the power of action and advocacy. Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the Coalition's main goals are to increase federal funding for breast cancer research and collaborate with the scientific community to implement new models of research; improve access to high quality health care and breast cancer clinical trials for all women; and expand the influence of breast cancer advocates wherever breast cancer decisions are made. Additional information about NBCC can be found at www.StopBreastCancer.org.
