OKC Standard

U.S. Senators Markwayne Mullin and Michael Bennet have introduced the Give Kids a Chance Act, aiming to improve outcomes for children with cancer by ensuring access to essential treatments and participation in critical trials.

Senator Mullin emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "No child should have to endure the pain and suffering that many with cancer have unfortunately faced." He highlighted the bill's extension of the Pediatric Priority Review Voucher Program as a means to incentivize companies to develop pediatric treatments and therapies.

Senator Bennet also expressed his commitment: "Children with cancer deserve access to the most advanced medicines possible, and we must ensure our medical professionals have every tool at their disposal to treat them."

Pamela Gavin from the National Organization for Rare Disorders urged swift bipartisan action on reauthorizing the Rare Pediatric Disease Priority Review Voucher program. She noted its potential impact on 15 million children in the U.S. living with rare diseases who currently lack FDA-approved treatments.

John F. Crowley of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization praised Senators Mullin and Bennet for supporting this legislation, which he believes will help renew hope for families affected by rare pediatric diseases without taxpayer cost.

Jamie Sullivan from EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases stressed that nearly three-quarters of rare diseases originate in childhood but lack FDA-approved treatment. He commended Senators Mullin and Bennet for championing legislation that safeguards incentives crucial for developing new therapies.

Erica Cischke from Alliance for Regenerative Medicine highlighted that Rare Pediatric Disease Priority Review Vouchers are vital incentives encouraging pharmaceutical companies to develop therapies addressing unmet medical needs.

The full text of the Give Kids a Chance Act is available online.