Advocacy - Lab Advocate
The House Appropriations Committee approved the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (LHHS) Appropriations Act, one of the largest non-defense spending bills that includes funding decisions affecting healthcare, workforce development, and education programs. The committee's action signals the next step in the appropriations process as the bill moves forward for consideration.
The accompanying committee report includes the following language on pediatric reference intervals (PRIs):
“Pediatric Reference Intervals.—The Committee supports CDC's work to ensure the reliable diagnosis and treatment of children in a cost-effective manner. A 2022 CDC study found that many reference intervals used for children do not accurately reflect the biology of child development. The Committee encourages CDC to develop pediatric reference intervals and directs the CDC to include information on the funding needed for this activity as part of the fiscal year 2027 congressional justification.”
The Senate’s version of the LHHS bill also includes similar language, reflecting bipartisan recognition of the importance of this effort. Recently, ADLM sent a letter co-signed by 48 medical, laboratory, and pediatric organizations to congressional appropriators underscoring the need for reliable pediatric reference data and urging federal investment to expand access. The inclusion of this language in both chambers’ reports underscores growing support within Congress for this intiative. ADLM is continuing to engage key congressional offices to secure the funding for this crucial initiative.