H.R. 1493: To reauthorize and make improvements to Federal programs relating to the prevention, detection, and treatment of traumatic brain injuries, and for other purposes.

This bill aims to reauthorize and improve federal programs related to the prevention, detection, and treatment of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Key provisions of the bill include:

1. Amendments to Existing Programs

The bill seeks to enhance the Bill Pascrell, Jr. national program for TBI surveillance and registries through several amendments:

• Incorporating data about the prevalence of TBIs as well as their incidence.
• Focusing on the prevention of TBIs by emphasizing the reduction of associated injuries and fatalities.
• Identifying populations at higher risk for TBIs, including specific occupational groups and other circumstantial risk factors.
• Addressing related mental health conditions that arise from TBIs.

2. National Data Collection and Dissemination

The bill proposes improvements to the national program for TBI surveillance to:

• Collect data on causes and risk factors associated with TBIs.
• Ensure that the findings are publicly available via the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website, especially in relation to at-risk populations and effective prevention strategies.

3. State Grant Programs

It also incorporates changes to state grant programs aimed at TBIs:

• Grants for outreach projects will consider populations at higher risk for TBIs.
• States and American Indian consortia will be encouraged to maintain certain expenditure levels with respect to TBI activities.
• Provisions are made for waiving a portion of the matching fund requirements for states or consortia that demonstrate financial difficulty.

4. Research and Reporting

The bill mandates a study of long-term symptoms or conditions related to TBIs, which will include:

• Investigating the long-term effects of TBIs, including any correlations with other conditions such as dementia and mental health issues.
• Evaluating existing services available to individuals with chronic TBI symptoms.
• Reporting the findings to Congress and making the information public.

5. Federal Agency Collaboration

The legislation encourages collaboration among various federal departments and agencies to enhance the understanding and management of TBIs, ensuring a more unified response to prevention and treatment across government levels.

6. Authorization of Funding

It authorizes appropriations for TBI programs from 2026 through 2030, expanding the time frame for federal support of initiatives related to TBIs, ensuring ongoing funding for activities aimed at reducing their incidence and impact.

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