WASHINGTON, DC – The House of Representatives today approved the bipartisan H.R. 5185, the EARLY Act Reauthorization, by a voice vote. H.R. 5185 was authored by Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), herself a breast cancer survivor, and committee member Rep. Renee Ellmers (R-NC). The Energy and Commerce Committee has a proven #RecordOfSuccess this Congress, including more than two-dozen laws to strengthen the public health.

Speaking in support of H.R. 5185, Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) said, "The prevention, treatment, and ultimately curing of diseases requires an all-hands-on-deck effort to not only educate, but also innovate on new cures and treatments. Earlier this year, the Energy and Commerce Committee embarked on the 21st Century Cures initiative with the goal of finding cures and treatments for the thousands without one – including this terrible disease. Sadly, we have all been touched in some manner by cancer or some other disease – whether it be a personal diagnosis or a courageous fight by a loved one. We have been encouraged and humbled by the support we have seen for this initiative, but also understand that there is a great deal of work ahead. We look forward to meeting this challenge and this bill helps us."

Ellmers added, "I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of the bipartisan EARLY Act and thrilled to see this reauthorization pass in the House of Representatives. The EARLY Act has a proven record of success—saving countless lives through both preventive and early detection measures. There are still far too many courageous women fighting this disease—including my dear friend, Fonnie Godwin, back home in Dunn. Fortunately, the EARLY Act will serve to shed light on this disease and give hope to those who, like Fonnie, are still fighting. This legislation ensures that all women—young and old— have the information and resources necessary to protect themselves, both throughout the battle and into remission. This legislation will continue its important work of educating future generations on the risks associated with this disease, and I look forward to seeing the EARLY Act signed into law as soon as possible."

Watch the complete floor remarks of Upton, Ellmers, Wasserman Schultz, and Rep. Gene Green (D-TX) here: 

Click to watch.

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