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SD 866

An Act improving pediatric cancer research

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Patrick O'Connor

Creates the Pediatric Cancer Research and Resource Project Trust Fund to grant MA pediatric cancer research and resource projects, overseen by a 7-member advisory committee.

House concurred
0
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Bill Summary · SD 866

Summary of Senate Bill SD 866: An Act Improving Pediatric Cancer Research

Overview

SD 866 proposes the creation of a dedicated funding mechanism to advance pediatric cancer research and related resources within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The bill would amend Chapter 29 of the General Laws to establish the Pediatric Cancer Research and Resource Project Trust Fund, authorize grantmaking for research and resource projects, and create an advisory structure to oversee grants and reporting.

Purpose and Scope

  • Establishes the Pediatric Cancer Research and Resource Project Trust Fund to provide grants for:
    • Pediatric cancer research projects (research on causes, prevention, education, screening, cure, or post-treatment effects; includes basic, clinical, and epidemiologic work).
    • Pediatric cancer resource projects (educational/awareness/ fundraising efforts to improve understanding, financial impact, and long-term health impacts, with support to reduce psychosocial and educational burdens).
  • Funds may come from appropriations, designated funds, private gifts/grants/donations, and interest earnings. Unspent fund balances do not revert to the General Fund.

Key Provisions

  • Definitions and Fund Rules

    • Pediatric cancer research projects may include basic, clinical, and epidemiologic research.
    • No more than 5% of awarded funding may be used for operational costs by awardees for both research and resource projects.

  • Uses and Funding

    • Funds are to be used for grants to support pediatric cancer research and resource projects within the Commonwealth.
    • Expenditures are subject to appropriation; the fund’s balance carries over year to year (no sunset by reversion).

  • Governance: Advisory Committee

    • The Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) shall establish a permanent advisory committee to award and allocate grants.
    • Committee composition (7 members):
    • 2 survivors of pediatric cancer or caregivers
    • 1 representative of a nationwide pediatric cancer advocacy nonprofit
    • 4 professionals from the pediatric cancer field
    • Appointments are made by the secretary of health and human services.

  • Reporting and Oversight

    • By August 1 each year, EOHHS must submit an annual report to specified House and Senate committees detailing:
    • Number, amounts, and recipients of grants awarded under the act
    • Resulting research and return on investment
    • Other information as requested by the special committee

Who Is Affected

  • Pediatric cancer researchers and research institutions in Massachusetts
  • Pediatric cancer patients, survivors, and their families (through resource projects and research focus)
  • Nonprofit organizations and advocacy groups in pediatric cancer
  • Public health and healthcare financing agencies (through oversight and reporting)

Status and Legislative History

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Referred to: Massachusetts Public Health Committee
  • House Concurred: (status indicates the House has concurred with the Senate version)

Additional Context

  • Similar measure previously filed in the 2023-2024 session (Senate No. 2496), indicating ongoing interest in establishing a dedicated pediatric cancer research fund in Massachusetts.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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