Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson’s Highlights the Peer-Reviewed Lupus Research Program funding in the Defense Appropriations Bill

Washington, DC – Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 5293, which will provide $576.3 billion for national security purposes, readiness programs, and health programs for service members, veterans, and military families. The Defense Appropriations bill included key language that establishes and funds a Peer-Reviewed Lupus Research program under the Defense Health Program.  Congresswoman Johnson serves as co-chair of the Congressional Lupus Caucus, and has been strongly advocating for the inclusion of this language to establish this research program.

“Lupus is an unpredictable and misunderstood autoimmune disease that ravages different parts of the body,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “It is difficult to diagnose, hard to live with, and a challenge to treat. New research shows that service members may be at a higher risk for developing lupus and other autoimmune diseases. The need for lupus research within our military population is necessary. I am pleased to see that the House Defense Appropriations bill includes $5 million to establish this lupus research program. A Peer-Reviewed Lupus Research program will support the development of innovative ideas that advance the understanding of lupus and that lead to improved outcomes for people with lupus. I am hopeful that this piece of the Defense Appropriations will pass the Senate and be sent to the President’s desk to be signed into law.”