March 12, 2013
The following is a reaction statement of United for Medical Research:
WASHINGTON – “We applaud Senator Harkin’s forthcoming amendment to provide the NIH with an increase of $211 million. A longstanding, steadfast champion of lifesaving medical research funding, Harkin’s adjustment to the budget is much-needed at this challenging time for the NIH community.
“Given the devastating impact of the five percent sequestration cuts on the medical research enterprise, which could slash more than 20,000 jobs and $3 billion in economic activity, Senator Harkin’s amendment would make strides toward repairing the ailing NIH budget. The Chairman recognizes the U.S. is on the precipice of groundbreaking discoveries that could benefit millions of patients and families and contribute to the competitive strength of U.S. health industries in the global marketplace.
“We also thank Senators Barbara Mikulski, Richard Shelby and Jerry Moran (R-KS) for their ongoing commitment to making NIH medical research a federal priority. We encourage Congress to adopt Senator Harkin’s amendment in the final continuing resolution and pass it immediately.”