STATEHOUSE (Feb. 26, 2025) – A bill co-authored by State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus) to create a grant program for pediatric cancer research unanimously passed through the House.
Lauer said House Bill 1453 would establish the Pediatric Cancer Research and Treatment Grant Program to fund research into treatments and novel therapies for pediatric cancer.
According to the Indiana Department of Health, more than 300 new cases of pediatric cancer occurred each year in Hoosier children ages 0 to 19 between 2016 to 2020. Additionally, more than 30 children in Indiana died from cancer annually between 2016 to 2020.
"As medicine and technology continue to improve, so too should our ability to explore different treatment options for pediatric cancer," Lauer said. "This legislation could lay the groundwork for Indiana to make more advancements to combat this terrible disease affecting young Hoosiers and their families."
Lauer said through the bill, Hoosiers and businesses would be able to donate directly to the grant fund. He added that the donations could be used to help pediatric cancer research already being done in Indiana, including through the Indiana University School of Medicine.
House Bill 1453 now moves to the Senate for further consideration. To learn more about the bill and follow session, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus) represents House District 59,
which includes a portion of Bartholomew County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
