U.S. Senators Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Andy Kim (D-NJ), John Cornyn (R-TX), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) have introduced the Traumatic Brain Injury Program Reauthorization Act of 2025. The legislation aims to extend several grant programs that provide care and resources for individuals with traumatic brain injuries through 2030.
Senator Mullin shared a personal experience, stating, “In 2020, my family’s life changed in an instant when our son Jim, who was 15 at the time, suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury while wrestling. While he’s made an incredible recovery thanks to the experts at the Center for Neuro Skills in Bakersfield, California, and the grace of God, not all patients who suffer TBIs are so lucky. This reauthorization will ensure the millions of Americans who suffer traumatic brain injuries and those suffering from long-term disabilities because of the injury have the support and resources necessary to navigate recovery.”
Senator Kim emphasized the importance of continued support for TBI patients: “Brain injuries of any kind are scary enough to go through — we need to make sure people can always find care and resources when they need it most. It is a unique privilege to carry this legislation forward in the Senate and advocate for the TBI Program under the name of my friend, the late Congressman Bill Pascrell, who was a fierce champion on this critical issue for New Jersey and our country.”
Senator Cornyn highlighted potential complications from traumatic brain injuries: “Traumatic brain injuries typically occur in a moment of sudden impact, but worsening symptoms, neurological decline, and even fatal complications can arise in the days or weeks following. By reauthorizing critical grant programs, this legislation would equip employers, law enforcement, and high-risk individuals with the tools to better identify signs of a traumatic brain injury and when to seek medical attention.”
Senator Padilla noted the widespread impact of TBIs: “Millions of Americans face sudden traumatic brain injuries every year — we cannot afford to let these critical programs for high-risk individuals expire. Our bipartisan bill would help make sure people suffering from these traumatic injuries have access to the help and medical support they need and deserve.”
Senator Cortez Masto stressed ongoing federal responsibility: “With more than 2.5 million Americans getting a traumatic brain injury each year, it’s essential that Congress continue to authorize these critical grants that support TBI research and treatment. These injuries aren’t just the result of a concussion on a football field – police officers, victims of domestic violence, and so many others experience TBIs. I’ll continue to push to make sure the federal government stays serious about preventing, treating, and raising awareness about these injuries.”
The bill has received endorsement from the Brain Injury Association of America.
The full text of S. 2898, Traumatic Brain Injury Program Reauthorization Act of 2025 is available online.
