Senators Introduce Bill to Accelerate Heart Disease Research

Why it matters locally: Given Maryland's proximity to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and its robust biotechnology and life sciences sectors, the proposed Heart Security Foundation could significantly impact research funding and collaborative opportunities for Maryland-based institutions and scientists.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Thom Tillis, R-N.C., and Alex Padilla, D-Calif., have introduced bipartisan legislation to accelerate research into cardiovascular disease. The bill, S.5469, known as the HEART Act, proposes the creation of the Heart Security Foundation. This foundation would function as a federally authorized non-profit organization affiliated with the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The Heart Security Foundation would aim to consolidate resources from public, private, and philanthropic sectors. The objective is to bolster research efforts, enhance disease prevention strategies, and improve early detection methods for cardiovascular conditions. Proponents of the legislation highlight the disease as the primary cause of death in the United States. ASANA Voices, an advocacy group, voiced support for the proposed legislation on September 27, 2026. The organization stated the foundation would help address disparities in health outcomes among diverse American communities. ASANA Voices has actively advocated for the HEART Act since its inception. The proposed foundation would focus on accelerating scientific discoveries. It would also facilitate the translation of these discoveries into practical applications for patient care and public health initiatives. The emphasis rests on creating a collaborative environment to tackle the complexities of cardiovascular disease.