National Cancer Fund Bill Introduced: August 2008
The National Cancer Fund Act of 2008 (HR 6791) was introduced on August 1, 2008, by Representatives Brian Higgins (D-N.Y.) and Steve Israel (D-N.Y.), Co-chair of the House Cancer Caucus. ASTRO supports this critical legislation and worked closely with its partners in the One Voice Against Cancer coalition in developing this bill to accelerate progress preventing and controlling cancer.
The bill would create dedicated sources of funding to supplement existing appropriations for the fight against cancer. Under this concept, the bill would establish a National Cancer Fund through an increase in the federal tobacco tax to $1.00 per cigarette pack with corresponding increases in other tobacco products that would raise $35 billion over five years to fight cancer.
The bill would direct that the new funds be spent on projects reflecting the continuum of cancer from prevention and early detection through research and patient care. It would also direct the President's Cancer Panel to convene experts in the field to make recommendations to Congress on how best to allocate the funding and examine additional, alternative sources of funding to support the National Cancer Fund.
To urge your representative to cosponsor this important legislation, go to ASTRO's Grassroots Action Center and enter your zip code.
Congress Overrides Presidential Veto
On July 15, Congress voted to override the President’s veto of HR 6331, the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008, which now becomes law and stops the 10.6 percent physician payment cut that took effect July 1. The House of Representatives voted 383-41, as more Republicans supported the bill than in the previous House vote on the measure. Shortly after the House vote, the Senate also voted, 70-26, to override the veto.
ASTRO’s grassroots network played a critical role in the passage of this important legislation, as a record 523 activists sent 1,095 messages to their senators on this legislation using ASTRO’s grassroots center Web site. While HR 6331 provides a positive 1.1 percent payment update in 2009, the delay in this year’s cuts means Medicare physicians will face a more than 20 percent cut January 1, 2010, unless Congress acts again.
“We’re so grateful for our colleagues across the country and ASTRO Government Relations staff who fought off these devastating cuts and created an environment where fundamental reform of the Medicare physician payment formula is now possible. We must use this reprieve wisely to advocate for Congress to create a new system that protects our profession and the patients we serve,” said Louis B. Harrison, M.D., ASTRO’s Chair.
This vote illustrates the critical role that grassroots contacts play in the legislative process.
ASTRO urges you to continue to stay involved in this important battle.
For more information, contact Dave Adler, assistant director of government relations.