Senate Approves Martin’s Bill Providing New Resources for Pediatric Cancer Research

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HARRISBURG – Up to $100 million in private donations could be generated over the next decade to support childhood cancer research under a bill approved by the Senate today, according to the bill’s sponsor, Senator Scott Martin (R-13).

Senate Bill 74 would create a tax credit program for qualifying donations to a Pennsylvania pediatric cancer research hospital. The program would be capped at $10 million per year over the next 10 years.

“As a father, I cannot imagine the pain and fear associated with a pediatric cancer diagnosis. These families deserve to know that we are fighting for them and taking every opportunity to improve treatments, both now and in the future,” Martin said. “I am thankful to my Senate colleagues for supporting this effort and bringing us one step closer to better outcomes for our young cancer warriors.”

Martin authored a law in 2018 that allows Pennsylvanians to donate $5 to the Pediatric Cancer Research Fund when electronically renewing a driver’s license, photo identification card or vehicle registration, in addition to a law that makes telepresence technology available to help homebound students participate in classroom activities and learning with their peers.

According to the American Cancer Society, more children die from cancer than any other disease. Currently, the National Cancer Institute spends less than 4 percent of its research dollars on pediatric cancer.

The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.

CONTACT: Terry Trego (717) 787-6535

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