U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Jeanne Shaheen recently hosted a hearing titled "A Future Without Type 1 Diabetes: Accelerating Breakthroughs and Creating Hope" in Washington, D.C. The event was part of the Breakthrough T1D Children’s Congress, which aims to raise awareness about Type 1 diabetes (T1D). Approximately 170 delegates from all 50 states and five countries attended.
The hearing coincided with the introduction of the Special Diabetes Program Reauthorization Act of 2025 by Senators Collins and Shaheen, who co-chair the U.S. Senate Diabetes Caucus. This bipartisan bill seeks to reauthorize funding for the Special Diabetes Program, which supports research breakthroughs for those with Type 1 diabetes as well as Native Americans and Alaska Natives. The proposed reauthorization would allocate $160 million annually to each program component through 2027.
Senator Collins remarked on the inspiration provided by the Children's Congress delegates, stating, "It is an honor to have hosted today’s hearing with Senators Murray and Shaheen." She emphasized her role in securing increased funding for the program in fiscal year 2024 but noted that current funding expires in September.
Senator Shaheen expressed gratitude to witnesses and advocates at the hearing, saying, "Their tireless advocacy for everyone living with Type 1 diabetes is truly inspiring." She highlighted the importance of federal investment in research through the Special Diabetes Program.
Aaron J. Kowalski, CEO of Breakthrough T1D, praised Senators Collins and Shaheen's leadership. He stated that the Special Diabetes Program has significantly impacted those living with T1D by supporting transformative therapies and clinical trials.
Witnesses at the hearing included Ruby Whitmore from Old Town, ME; Rachel White from North Hampton, NH; Katie Bone from Bernalillo, NM; and Griffin P. Rodgers from Bethesda, MD.
