We all know how important federal support is in the fight against vector-borne diseases. That’s why, during this year’s AMCA Washington Conference, one of our top priorities was securing the reauthorization of the Kay Hagan Tick Act (S. 2398/ H.R. 4348). Whether through the Regional Centers of Excellence in Vector-Borne Disease or CDC grants, this bipartisan legislation helps fund the research, surveillance, and operational tools we need to protect communities from vector-borne disease.

And, we have some updates! Two Senate bills have been introduced to reauthorize the Kay Hagan Tick Act.

• S. 2294: Reauthorizes the expiring provisions and raises the authorization levels.
• S. 2398: A “straight” reauthorization includes no changes to funding amounts.
• H.R. 4348 and S. 2398 are identical, and it’s reasonable to assume that S. 2398 is the more likely bill to move forward.

In addition, we are making progress with building support for the Kay Hagan Tick Act.  S.2398 now has 16 cosponsors (10-D, 5-R, 1-I) and H.R.4348 has 17 cosponsors (13-D, 4-R). 

While we would prefer the higher authorization levels in S. 2294, it’s unlikely that appropriators will increase actual funding. With this in mind, our advocacy efforts are on supporting the straight reauthorization in H.R. 4348/S. 2398, while still making it clear that higher authorization levels would be ideal.

So what’s in the reauthorization? Here are the highlights:

• Keeps the National Public Health Strategy going – ensuring HHS continues to update and implement a coordinated approach to vector-borne diseases.
• Reauthorizes the Regional Centers of Excellence – funding cutting-edge science, training, and surveillance for another five years (funding is set to expire this year!).
• Extends CDC grants to state and local health departments – supporting data collection, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and public awareness efforts.

If you don't see your Congressional members on the list of cosponsors, we encourage our members to use the AMCA Advocacy Action Center and contact your members of congress and let them know you support the Kay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act (S. 2398/ H.R. 4348).