House OKs Ackerman bill that would encourage more medical research in Rhode Island
STATE HOUSE — The House of Representatives has passed legislation (2022-H 8008A) introduced by Rep. Mia Ackerman (D-Dist. 45, Cumberland, Lincoln) that would encourage more medical research in Rhode Island by bringing state law in line with federal standards.
“This is legislation that will really save lives,” said Representative Ackerman. “Medical research requires large amounts of data, and our current state law is so restrictive that Rhode Island researchers and patients often cannot participate in research that is open across the rest of the country. This hurts our scientists and our patients.”
Under the legislation, the state will not only be able to conduct more medical research, but receive larger amounts of data from around the country. There will be a greater exchange of information that can help people who suffer from certain medical conditions, for example, those with specific types of cancer.
“This bill would be a game changer for medical research in Rhode Island while bringing more research dollars into the state, particularly Brown Medical School,” said Representative Ackerman.
The measure now moves to the Senate for consideration.
House Speaker Mike Johnson needs the help of Democrats to get his foreign aid package across the finish line. Johnson is moving forward with a plan to vote on separate bills to send military assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and U.S. allies in the Indo-Pacific, as well as a bill that includes border security measures. However, several conservatives quickly came out against the plan, arguing border policy changes should be directly tied to any additional funding for Ukraine. 
