108th Congress

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Act

H.R. 290, S. 491

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease is the general name for two diseases that cause inflammation of the intestines: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The cause of inflammatory bowel disease is unknown, although researchers speculate that it is caused by a virus or bacterium interacting with the body’s immune system.

Provisions of the Legislation/Impact on NIH

H.R. 290 and S. 491 are identical bills that would have required the Director of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases to expand activities addressing inflammatory bowel disease, with an emphasis on genetic, animal model, and clinical research.

Status and Outlook

H.R. 290 was introduced by Representative Sue W. Kelly (R-NY) on January 8, 2003, and was referred to the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health. No further action occurred on this legislation during the 108th Congress.

S. 491 was introduced by Senator Harry Reid (D-NV) on February 27, 2003, and was referred to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. No further action occurred on this legislation during the 108th Congress.