Texas lawmakers passed a bill creating a research institute focused on brain disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Now, taxpayers are about to be asked to fund it to the tune of $3 billion.
Earlier this legislative session, lawmakers created the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas to study dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and other brain conditions. The institute is modelled after the Lone Star State’s Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas but would promote research in the field of neurological disorders.
Now, after receiving House approval of SB 5, it will be up to voters in the next election whether to allocate $3 billion of general fund surplus revenue to create the Dementia Prevention and Research Fund to provide grants for research and prevention of neurological disorders through the institute. Going forward, the institute would receive up to $300 million annually.
The institute, which depends on passage of the constitutional amendment to establish the research fund, would be effective Dec. 1, 2025, through Sept. 1, 2035, if passed.
Supporters say the institute would accelerate innovation in neurological research by providing grants through the institute, attracting top research talent, and helping relieve caregiving costs in the state.
The Texas Assisted Living Association said it is “ecstatic” to see the investment in dementia research, prevention and treatment strategies that SB 5 would bring.
“The devastating cruelty of dementia-associated diseases, coupled with a rising prevalence in Texas and across the nation as our senior population continues to increase, makes this investment not only one of compassion, but of necessity,” TALA President and CEO Diana Martinez told McKnight’s Senior LIving. “Creating a collaborative higher education advisory committee will raise the issues of dementia in institutions of education, where dedication, energy and curiosity can be found and applied to dementia’s challenges.”
Martinez added that, as an added benefit, the investment also would spur career exploration in the memory care field.
“Texas’ current budget surplus presents a unique opportunity to improve the lives of millions in Texas and beyond,” according to the House Research Organization. “Additionally, DPRIT could facilitate types of research, such as projects focused on prevention, that might not be pursued by private entities alone since they may not be especially profitable.”
Critics said the bill, if approved, would create an “open-ended, long-term financial risk for taxpayers outside of the proper scope of government.” Critics said that the cancer institute model has had problems with accountability in the use of taxpayer dollars.
According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, 12% of the state’s older adults have an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Forty-three percent of the state’s assisted living residents are living with dementia, according to the National Center for Assisted Living. Nationally, 44% of assisted living residents have dementia diagnoses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics.
Source: McKnights Seniorliving