Hydrocephalus Association Applauds Introduction of the Medical Research for Our Troops Act

Washington, D.C. – On June 12th, Congressman Andre Carson (IN-07) and Congressman Mike Levin (CA-49) introduced the Medical Research for Our Troops Act (H.R. 3906). The legislation would restore FY 2025 funding levels to FY 2024 for the Department of Defense’s Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program (CDMRP).

The legislation comes at a crucial time, given recent cuts to the program. In March, the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2025 cut FY 2025 funding for CDMRP by 57%, or $859 million, jeopardizing high-impact research investigating innovative treatments and cures for conditions like hydrocephalus, disproportionately impacting veterans, service members, and their families.

The following is a statement from Hydrocephalus Association CEO, Diana Gray:

“The Hydrocephalus Association is thrilled to see the introduction of this critical legislation, which would reverse the draconian cuts implemented earlier this year. The CDMRP Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program (PRMRP) has been integral to the hydrocephalus research community. Since hydrocephalus’ 2015 inclusion into the program, there have been major research milestones like the first clinical trial for a drug combination that could reverse the development of hydrocephalus. The March Full-Year Continuing Resolution unfortunately cut the PRMRP by over $200 million to $150 million, exacerbating the challenging environment for hydrocephalus research in the United States.”

The Hydrocephalus Association is grateful to the members of the Congressional Pediatric and Adult Hydrocephalus Caucus for playing key roles in introducing this legislation – Congressman Andre Carson and Congressman Mike Levin, for introducing the bill. Additionally, Caucus Co-Chair, Congressman Lloyd Doggett (TX-37) and Caucus members Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) and Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06) for their original cosponsorship of the legislation.