WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HR 174

DRUGS/TESTING: Requests the state surgeon general and the Louisiana Department of Health to assess the feasibility of advancing fenbendazole or similar treatments for potential human use in cancer treatment and to provide guidance on engaging federal authorities for expedited evaluation while protecting public health

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Beryl Amedée and 8 co-sponsors

LouisianaHoz directs health leaders to assess feasibility of fenbendazole for human use in cancer, and plan expedited, safety-focused federal engagement pathways.

Taken by the Clerk of the House and presented to the Secretary of State in accordance with the Rules of the House.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 174

Summary of Louisiana House Resolution HR 174 (2026 Regular Session)

Overview

  • Bill Type: House Resolution (H/R)
  • Bill Number: HR 174
  • Session: 2026 Regular Session
  • Jurisdiction: Louisiana
  • Primary Subject: Encourages the state Surgeon General and the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) to assess the feasibility of fenbendazole for potential human use in cancer treatment and to outline guidance for engaging federal authorities on expedited evaluation while safeguarding public health.
  • Sponsor: Representative Owen (Co-sponsor: Chuck Owen)

Purpose and Intent

  • The resolution directs state health leadership to formally evaluate whether fenbendazole, a veterinary deworming medication, could be advanced for potential human use in cancer treatment or other medical conditions.
  • It seeks a professional assessment of feasibility and the development of state-level options to support further scientific review.
  • It requests a plan for engaging federal authorities (notably the U.S. Food and Drug Administration) to pursue expedited evaluation through mechanisms such as compassionate use, expanded access programs, or prioritized clinical trials, all while maintaining patient safety and evidence-based standards.
  • The objective is not to authorize human use of fenbendazole in Louisiana at this time, but to explore pathways for accelerated, rigorous consideration if warranted.

Key Provisions (What the Bill Does)

  • Repeats and formalizes three main tasks for LDH and the state Surgeon General:
    1. Provide a professional assessment and guidance on the feasibility of advancing fenbendazole toward potential human authorization for cancer or other medical conditions.
    2. Develop a recommended state-level plan to engage federal authorities (primarily the FDA) to expedite evaluation through compassionate use, expanded access, or prioritized clinical trials, while ensuring safety and adherence to evidence-based standards.
    3. Submit a written report detailing findings and recommendations to the Louisiana House Committee on Health and Welfare by February 1, 2027.
  • The resolution authorizes transmission of this report and related materials to the state Surgeon General and the LDH Secretary.

Who/What Would Be Affected

  • State Government Entities:
    • Louisiana Office of the Surgeon General
    • Louisiana Department of Health
  • Legislative Oversight:
    • Louisiana House Committee on Health and Welfare (receives the final report)
  • Public Health Stakeholders:
    • The broader public health community (through state-led assessment and guidance)
    • Patients and advocates interested in experimental/future cancer therapies (via potential expedited pathways)

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Report Deadline: Written findings and recommendations must be submitted to the House Committee on Health and Welfare no later than February 1, 2027.
  • Process: The resolution instructs state health officials to conduct a professional assessment and to craft a plan for federal engagement with a focus on safety and evidence-based standards.
  • Status: As of the latest action, the bill has been read by title and lies over under the rules (i.e., awaiting further consideration or action).

Practical Implications

  • The resolution does not authorize fenbendazole for human use in Louisiana. It seeks a formal, science-based evaluation of feasibility and an outline for potential federal engagement pathways.
  • It signals interest in exploring accelerated access mechanisms for controversial or emerging therapies, while stressing patient safety and adherence to rigorous evidence.
  • If the assessment identifies feasibility and potential pathways, LDH and the Surgeon General could influence future state-supported discussions with federal agencies and inform legislative or regulatory actions.

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

Sign in to ask a question.