State Senator Erica Harriss introduced on March 11 legislation that would establish the Illinois Pediatric Cancer Fund, aiming to boost research and improve outcomes for children with cancer in the state.
The proposed Senate Bill 3954 seeks to create a special fund within the State Treasury Department dedicated to supporting research, prevention, and treatment efforts related to pediatric cancer. The fund would provide grants to physicians, hospitals, laboratories, universities, and other organizations conducting research focused on childhood cancers.
“Childhood cancer steals far too much from families, and the truth is we still don’t have the answers our kids deserve,” said Senator Harriss. “No parent should ever hear the words ‘your child has cancer’ and wonder whether enough research is being done to save their life. We owe it to every child fighting this disease to put real resources behind the breakthroughs that can change their future. This fund is about honoring their courage with action, and refusing to accept a world where a child’s life is cut short because we didn’t do enough.”
If passed, the Department of Healthcare and Family Services would administer the fund and oversee a grant program designed to support scientific research and innovation related to pediatric cancer. Funding could come from legislative appropriations as well as private donations or other contributions made in support of pediatric cancer initiatives. The bill also requires annual reports from the department detailing how funds are used and progress on research initiatives.
“Pediatric cancer is still one of the leading causes of disease-related death among children in our country,” said Harriss. “By creating a dedicated fund here in Illinois, we can help accelerate research and support the doctors and scientists working every day to find better treatments and cures for our children.”
A portion of the fund may also be used for promoting awareness about pediatric cancer and encouraging further donations. According to public records, Harriss was elected as a Republican senator representing Illinois’ 56th Senate District in 2023, succeeding Kris Tharp.
SB3954 has been assigned to the Health and Human Services Committee for consideration.
