Nebraska Cures sent a letter to members of the Nebraska Legislature’s Appropriations Committee supporting LB 802, a bill providing grants to new teachers and those getting certified to teach science.
The letter read:
Dear Appropriations Committee,
Nebraska Cures has been a leading advocate for health science research for over 20 years. We support policies rooted in science and strive to advance the quality of life and economy for Nebraskans. In alliance with our mission, we strive to educate policymakers on sound health science and address state initiatives regarding health science policy.
I am writing to express my strong support for LB802, which would state the intent to appropriate funds to the Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska for pediatric cancer research at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. I believe that LB802 has the potential to make a significant impact on the health and economic wellbeing of Nebraskans.
Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, and Nebraska is no exception. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 3,540 Nebraskans will die from cancer in 2023 alone.(1) However, research has shown that investments in cancer research can lead to improved treatments, earlier detection, and better outcomes for patients.
Pediatric cancers present a unique and complex challenge that demands specialized research and treatment approaches. It is truly heart-wrenching to witness young children and their families confronting such a daunting diagnosis and treatment process, which can impose long-lasting physical, emotional, and financial burdens. However, through supporting pediatric cancer research at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, we can seize the opportunity to make a transformative difference in the health and well-being of our communities.
But the benefits of cancer research funding go beyond just improving health outcomes. Research institutions and biotech companies that receive funding create jobs, attract talent, and stimulate economic growth. Additionally, research often leads to new discoveries and innovations, which can be commercialized to generate revenue for the state. For example, the economic impact from 23 patents that UNMC researchers were awarded in their FY 2021, was estimated to boost the Nebraska economy annually by approximately $200 million over the next 10 years.(2) By investing in pediatric cancer research at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, we can support the growth of a thriving biotech sector that contributes to our state’s economy.
In conclusion, I urge you to support LB802 and proceed with the appropriation of funds to the Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska for pediatric cancer research at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. This is a critical investment in the health and economic wellbeing of our state, and I believe that it has the potential to make a significant difference for Nebraskans. Thank you for your attention to this important issue.
Sincerely,
David Crouse
Nebraska Cures Board President
References:
- Siegel, Rebecca L et al. “Cancer statistics, 2023.” CA: a cancer journal for clinicians vol. 73,1 (2023): 17-48. doi:10.3322/caac.21763
- Umbach, Tripp. Economic Impact of the University of Nebraska Medical Center February 2022, Feb. 2022, https://www.unmc.edu/_documents/aboutus/economic-impact-2021.pdf.
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