Amendment to FY09 Budget to Increase Funding for the NIH Was Adopted!

The amendment to the FY09 budget resolution offered by Senators Arlen Specter (R-Penn.) and Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) to increase funding for the NIH in FY09 was adopted by the Senate yesterday. The amendment calls for an additional $2.1 billion (10.2% increase) for the NIH in FY09. The vote was 95-4.

Adoption of this amendment to the budget resolution doesn't guarantee that the additional money will be provided to NIH (that has to happen in the FY09 NIH appropriations bill) but getting it included in the budget resolution is an important first step.  Thanks to all SF members who contacted their senators in support of the amendment.