HARRISBURG – A measure that will help generate private donations to support pediatric cancer research has been signed into law, according to the bill’s sponsor, Senator Scott Martin (R-13).
Senate Bill 1091 will allow Pennsylvanians to voluntarily donate $5 to the Pediatric Cancer Research Fund when electronically renewing a driver’s license, photo identification card or vehicle registration. The funding will be used exclusively for research approved by the Pennsylvania Cancer Control, Prevention and Research Advisory Board.
“Families who are affected by childhood cancer deserve all of the love and support we can offer,” Martin said. “This new law will help improve diagnosis, treatment and prevention strategies so more young people who are affected by cancer can overcome this awful disease and lead long, healthy lives.”
Senator Martin thanked Senators Aument, Rafferty, and Sabatina for their support and sponsorship as well as the House of Representatives for passing this important piece of legislation.
Pediatric cancer is the leading cause of death by disease among children nationwide.
“This collaborative effort was about the real champions; the children fighting cancer. This was about the Angels we have lost to childhood cancer. This was, and always will be, about the families affected by childhood cancer. By this act, the families who worked so hard in the halls of Harrisburg have had their voices heard and childhood cancer research in Pennsylvania is being funded,” stated York County resident Bill Kohler, father of Ayden who passed away in 2017, President of 4AydenStrong and Vice President for NC3.
CONTACT: Terry Trego (717) 787-6535