Parkinson's Advocates Push for $600M Annual Research Funding as Poll Shows Bipartisan Support
Event summary
- 350+ advocates from 49 states convened in Washington for the 2026 Parkinson's Policy Forum to push for increased research funding and regulatory action on paraquat.
- A national poll of 1,000 voters found 75% support for doubling federal Parkinson's research funding to $600M annually.
- Two-thirds of voters support banning or curbing the herbicide paraquat, linked to increased Parkinson's risk.
- Advocates urge EPA to suspend paraquat use and implement the delayed National Parkinson's Project.
The big picture
The Parkinson's advocacy push comes amid growing bipartisan consensus on the need for increased research funding and regulatory action on environmental toxins linked to neurodegenerative diseases. With 1.2M Americans living with Parkinson's, the campaign highlights the intersection of public health and agricultural policy, where the herbicide paraquat has become a focal point for both patient groups and lawmakers. The delayed implementation of the National Parkinson's Project underscores the challenges of coordinating cross-agency initiatives, even with strong legislative backing.
What we're watching
- Regulatory Momentum
- Whether the EPA will accelerate its reassessment of paraquat and suspend its use following advocacy pressure.
- Legislative Progress
- The pace at which Congress will act on the HEALTHY BRAINS Act and implement the National Parkinson's Project.
- Funding Allocation
- How the NIH will prioritize the $600M annual research funding request amid competing healthcare budget demands.