Federal FY 2026 Budget Preserves Key Sickle Cell Programs; Advocacy Continues for Comprehensive Care
The Heart of Gold Sickle Cell Foundation applauds recent bipartisan federal legislative actions that preserve critical sickle cell programs and expand access to care.
Legislative Recognition & Expanded Access to Care
Special recognition goes to the bipartisan Congressional champions who supported this effort, including Tim Scott, Cory Booker, John James, Danny Davis, Jen Kiggans, Troy Carter, and Marc Veasey , for their leadership and commitment to the sickle cell community.
In addition, Congress advanced the Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act (H.R. 1509 / S. 752), which establishes a streamlined process to help children with medically complex conditions — including sickle cell disease — access out-of-state specialty care through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
This legislation was championed by Chuck Grassley, Michael Bennet, and Representatives Lori Trahan and Mariannette Miller-Meeks. The Act represents a significant step forward in reducing barriers to lifesaving specialty care for children and families who often must cross state lines to receive treatment.
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