House Passes ACT for ALS Reauthorization Act; Senate Action Urged Before September Deadline
Event summary
- U.S. House of Representatives passed the Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies (ACT) for ALS Reauthorization Act of 2026 (H.R. 8205), led by Representatives Ken Calvert and Mike Quigley.
- The legislation extends key ACT for ALS programs through 2031, preserving progress in ALS research and expanded access to investigational therapies.
- Current law expires on September 30, 2026; ALS Network urges Senate to act swiftly to avoid disruption of critical programs.
The big picture
The passage of the ACT for ALS Reauthorization Act by the House marks a critical step in ensuring continued funding and support for ALS research and patient access to investigational therapies. The legislation reflects broader trends in healthcare policy aimed at accelerating therapeutic development for rare diseases, where time is of the essence. The urgency of Senate action underscores the fragility of progress in combating ALS, a disease with limited treatment options.
What we're watching
- Legislative Momentum
- Whether the Senate will act swiftly to pass the reauthorization before the September 30 deadline.
- Research Continuity
- The pace at which ALS research and access to investigational therapies could be disrupted without timely Senate action.
- Bipartisan Support
- How sustained advocacy from the ALS community will influence future healthcare policy initiatives.
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