SCREEN for Type 1 Diabetes Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Schrier, Kim [D-WA-8]
- Committees
- Energy and Commerce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 21, 2026
Bottom line
The bill creates a federally funded public awareness campaign and grant program to promote early detection and screening for type 1 diabetes across the United States.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Public Health Service Act to establish a national public awareness campaign for type 1 diabetes. The campaign, led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), aims to increase knowledge among healthcare providers and the public regarding type 1 diabetes detection, screening, and management. It mandates the development of written materials, public service announcements, and targeted outreach to communities with rising incidence, while also authorizing grants to public health departments to increase screening.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that early detection of type 1 diabetes is crucial for preventing severe health complications, improving long-term health outcomes, and reducing healthcare costs associated with emergency diagnoses. A national awareness campaign, particularly one that targets at-risk communities and provides culturally competent resources, can significantly increase screening rates and ensure individuals receive timely medical intervention and education.
Opponents contend
Critics, if any, might raise concerns about the scope of federal involvement in public health campaigns that could potentially be handled by non-profit organizations or state initiatives. Some might also question the effectiveness of broad public awareness campaigns versus more targeted clinical interventions, or the allocation of federal funds to this specific disease area over others.
The bill is short and clearly written, making it highly accessible for a reader to understand its provisions and implications quickly.
Section 2(a), new 317H(c)(1)
Establishment of National Type 1 Diabetes Public Awareness Campaign
This provision directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to launch a national, evidence-based campaign. The campaign's primary goal is to educate both healthcare providers and the general public about the detection, screening, and management of type 1 diabetes, aiming to increase overall awareness and knowledge.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue that a national campaign is essential to standardize and amplify critical health information, ensuring that both the public and medical professionals are equipped to identify and address type 1 diabetes early, which can prevent severe complications.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against public health awareness campaigns, though some might argue for greater emphasis on clinical research or treatment access over awareness alone.
Tradeoffs
The primary tension involves balancing broad public outreach with targeted educational efforts to ensure resources are effectively utilized across diverse populations and healthcare settings.
Section 2(a), new 317H(c)(2) and (3)
Development and Dissemination of Educational Materials and PSAs
This section requires the Secretary to create and maintain publicly accessible written materials covering early symptoms, screening availability and benefits, and resources for newly diagnosed individuals. Additionally, it mandates the development and issuance of public service announcements (PSAs) across various media platforms, including social media, television, radio, and through trusted figures, to educate the public on early detection and the importance of screening.
Section 2(a), new 317H(c)(5)(C)
Grants to State, Local, and Tribal Public Health Departments for Screening
This provision directs the Secretary to award grants or enter into cooperative agreements with State, local, and Tribal public health departments. These funds are intended to help departments engage with specific communities (those with significant increases in type 1 diabetes incidence), local educational agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations. The goal is to develop and implement effective strategies to increase type 1 diabetes screening and to disseminate culturally and linguistically competent resources on where individuals can access local screenings.
Section 2(a), new 317H(c)(8)
Authorization of Appropriations
This section authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2031 to carry out the provisions of this subsection. The funds are specified to remain available until expended, providing flexibility for the campaign's implementation over time.