Donovan lauds passage of 21st Century Cures Act
Rep. says bill funds drug treatment, Alzheimer’s research
Sweeping legislation passed by both houses of Congress will pump $5.8 billion into fighting opioid drug addiction and other life-threatening health issues, according to U.S. Rep. Dan Donovan, who called that package a “landmark” bill.
Donovan (R-C-Southwest Brooklyn-Staten Island) was among the House members voting in favor of the 21st Century Cures Act, a bill that authorizes $1 billion in grants to be distributed to states for the treatment, education and enforcement of opioid addiction. The bill passed by an overwhelming margin, 392-26.
The legislation also provides $4.8 billion for the National Institutes of Health to conduct research into cures for deadly diseases like cancer and Alzheimer’s, Donovan said.
The legislation was approved by the Senate by a vote of 85-13 on Dec. 5 and has been sent to President Barack Obama for his signature.