02.16.22

Durbin Speaks With Acting NIH Director Dr. Tabak, Discusses Medical Research Funding, ACT for ALS Act

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today met virtually with Acting Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Dr. Larry Tabak, who has served in the position since December 2021 when former director Dr. Francis Collins stepped down. During their meeting, Durbin urged Dr. Tabak to begin implementing the new grant programs and partnerships authorized under ACT for ALS, which was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Biden late last year. The legislation, spearheaded by Illinois constituents Brian Wallach and Sandra Abrevaya, will advance ALS research, facilitate collaboration between public, industry, and academic partners, and provide broader access to ALS clinical trials.

 

“I have the utmost respect and appreciation for our researchers and leaders at the NIH, who have seen us through numerous public health crises and continue to guide us through the ongoing global pandemic,” Durbin said. “It was great to meet with Dr. Tabak today and hear about his goals for the NIH and to advocate for Americans battling ALS by discussing a timeline for implementing the provisions in the newly-enacted ACT for ALS law.  I look forward to staying in touch with Dr. Tabak and working together to improve health outcomes for all.”  

A photo of the virtual meeting is available here. 

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