109th Congress

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Act

H.R. 3616/S. 1930

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease is the general name for two diseases that cause inflammation of the intestines: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The cause of the disease is unknown, although researchers speculate that it is caused by a virus or bacteria interacting with the body’s immune system.

Provisions of the Legislation/Impact on NIH

H.R. 3616 and S. 1930 would have required the Director of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) to expand activities addressing inflammatory bowel disease, emphasizing genetic, animal model, and clinical research. The legislation would have also required the expansion of the NIDDK Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center program to include a focus on pediatric research.

Status and Outlook

H.R. 3616 was introduced by Representative Sue W. Kelly (R-NY) on July 29, 2005, and was referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. No further action occurred on this legislation during the 109th Congress.

S. 1930 was introduced by Senator Harry Reid (D-NV) on October 27, 2005, and was referred to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. No further action occurred on this legislation during the 109th Congress.