Shackleford’s HB1065 passes unanimously out of House Public Health Committee
Today, Feb. 11, State Rep. Robin Shackleford’s (D-Indianapolis) House Bill 1065, which aims to ease the financial burden for cancer patients participating in clinical trials, passed unanimously out of the House Public Health Committee. The bill proposes the creation of the Cancer Clinical Trial Participation Program, allowing independent third parties, such as patient groups, corporations or government entities, to cover ancillary costs for patients taking part in clinical trials in Indiana.
“Every year, millions of Hoosiers face a cancer diagnosis. As a state, we need to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent individuals from participating in life-saving clinical trials. By providing support to help cover costs like travel, lodging and other out-of-pocket expenses, we can help Hoosiers access the treatments that could save their lives. This legislation is a critical part of ensuring that no one is left behind due to financial challenges when it comes to fighting cancer,” Shackleford said.
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in Indiana, with an estimated 2.4 million Hoosiers, or approximately two in five people, eventually facing a diagnosis. Despite the importance of clinical trials in discovering new treatments, less than 7% of eligible patients currently participate. Barriers to participation include the cost of travel, lodging, and missed work, which can be a significant burden on patients and their families.
“Cancer is not a partisan issue. This bill serves as an example of how we can build bipartisan support to address the needs of our communities. By working together across party lines, we can improve the health and well-being of all Hoosiers, regardless of their background or financial situation,” Shackleford said.
“As we move forward, Indiana joins a growing list of states, including Texas, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Massachusetts, which have already taken similar steps to support patients in clinical trials,” Shackleford said.