The Administration’s budget request of $27.3 billion for NIH represents a 15.7% increase, fulfilling the bipartisan commitment to double the NIH budget by FY 2003. The proposed budget includes new funding to expand the nation’s biodefense research agenda and at the same time strengthens resources for research facilities, scientific personnel and investigator-initiated research on a vast array of diseases that continue to threaten public health.
The ASM strongly supports the Administration’s budget request for a $1.5 billion increase for the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) which spearheads the bioterrorism research efforts of the NIH. The capability to develop effective measures to counter the effects of a potential bioterrorism attack has never been more urgent.
Additionally, the ASM applauds the CDC Coalition’s recommendation to fund the CDC at $7.9 billion for FY 2003. The CDC plays a critical role in reducing death, illness and disability, both in the United States and globally. Increased funding for the CDC is warranted to sustain and expand the CDC’s ability to respond promptly and effectively to outbreaks of new and emerging diseases, public health threats, national preparedness for a potential bioterrorism attack, and a growing international presence in combating infectious diseases. Full copies of the recommendations and ASM testimony on NIH and CDC appropriations can be found online at http://www.asmusa.org/pascr/public1.htm.
The American Society for Microbiology is the largest single life science society, composed of over 42,000 scientists and health professionals. Its mission is to promote research and research training in the microbiological sciences and to assist communication among scientists, policy makers, and the public to improve health, the environment, and economic well-being.