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119-HRES-1079 Journalist Public Summary

119 · HRES 1079 Recognizing the significance of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and the need for robust funding of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke at the National Institutes of Health.

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A nonbinding House resolution recognizes Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease and urges “robust” research funding at NIH’s NINDS; it’s sponsored by Reps. Josh Gottheimer and Don Bacon, aligns with rare-disease advocates’ push for research dollars, and—like all simple House resolutions—would express the House’s view without itself adding money or changing law. (congress.gov)

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Published
26 Feb 2026
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26 Feb 2026
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Public Summary — 119-HRES-1079

Headline Summary: The resolution spotlights Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and calls on Congress/NIH to ensure strong funding for research at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS); it is a symbolic statement of the House, not a law. (congress.gov)

What It Does: In short, the measure (a simple House resolution) recognizes CMT as a significant health challenge and expresses that research into CMT and other uncured rare diseases should receive robust support at NINDS within NIH. Because it’s a simple resolution, it does not appropriate money or change policy by itself; it conveys the House’s position. (congress.gov)

Why It Matters: CMT is a group of inherited nerve disorders that weaken muscles and sensation over time; there is no cure, so patients rely on research progress for future treatments. A congressional statement can draw attention to the disease and signal priorities as annual funding debates unfold. (ninds.nih.gov)

  • Who’s For It: Primary sponsors are Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) and Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE), reflecting bipartisan backing. (gottheimer.house.gov)
  • Advocacy context: Rare‑disease groups have recently urged or applauded sustained NIH support (e.g., MDA’s endorsement of higher NIH funding; CMTA’s new research investments), aligning with the resolution’s aims. (globenewswire.com)
  • Who’s Against It: No formal, organized opposition is publicly evident as of February 26, 2026. Skeptics generally argue that Congress shouldn’t single out diseases in nonbinding measures and that NIH allocates research dollars through its peer‑review process and annual appropriations. (house.gov)

What’s Next: After introduction, simple resolutions are handled within the House (often via the Energy and Commerce Committee for health matters). If the committee acts, the resolution could receive a House vote; even if adopted, it would state the House’s view and could inform—not replace—separate appropriations decisions. (house.gov)

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