Rep. Earl L. Carter, US Representative for Georgia's 1st District | Official U.S. House headshot
Rep. Earl L. Carter, US Representative for Georgia's 1st District | Official U.S. House headshot
The Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization Act of 2024 has been signed into law. The legislation was authored by Representatives Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (R-GA), Darren Soto (D-FL), Gus Bilirakis (R-GA), and Adam Schiff (D-CA) in the House, with Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Todd Young (R-IN) in the Senate.
This bipartisan bill renews funding for essential research and awareness efforts at the Department of Health and Human Services on congenital heart disease (CHD). CHD is the most common birth defect in America, affecting nearly 40,000 newborns annually. It remains a leading cause of birth defect-related deaths. With advancements in medical care extending life expectancy for CHD patients, there are now more adults than children living with these conditions in the United States—approximately two million adults.
The National Congenital Heart Disease Research, Surveillance, and Awareness Program aims to enhance understanding of CHD throughout patients' lives. The reauthorization extends this program through Fiscal Year 2029.
Representative Carter expressed his support for the legislation: “During my career as a pharmacist, I’ve seen nothing short of miracles as a result of research and development. For the two million patients suffering with Congenital Heart Disease in America, relief – in the form of a cure or treatment – can’t come soon enough."
Congressman Bilirakis also commented on the new law: "As a co-founder of the Congenital Heart Caucus, I’ve become familiar with the struggles patients with congenital heart disease and their families face."
Mark Roeder, President and CEO of the Adult Congenital Heart Association said: “Today’s signing...demonstrates the importance of patient advocacy and bipartisan problem-solving.”
Leah Evangelista from the Children’s Hospital Association highlighted early detection's role: “Identifying congenital heart defects as early as possible...is critical to saving lives.”
Organizations such as Conquering CHD, Mending Little Hearts, and Children’s Heart Foundation have shown strong support for this legislation.
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