In another historic bi-partisan effort, the first-ever hepatitis B legislation HR 4550, the "National Hepatitis B Act" was introduced by U.S. Representatives Mike Honda (D-CA) and Charles Dent (R-PA) to Congress on December 15, 2005. The new bill specifically calls for the development of a national plan for hepatitis B, support for screening and immunization of high-risk populations in particular, and an increase in federal research to improve prevention and treatment options.

The HBV Bill builds on the AIM for the B campaign started in May 2005, which involves many advocacy groups, such as the HBF, working together to make hepatitis B a national priority. Congressman Mike Honda, the primary sponsor of the bill, is continuing to build bi-partisan support, and invites anyone concerned about hepatitis B to send a letter to their legislator!

H.R. 4550, the "National Hepatitis B Act"Needs Your Support Congressmen Mike Honda and Charles Dent invite those concerned about hepatitis B to contact their legislators! The first-ever HBV bill provides for a comprehensive program for the prevention, education, diagnosis, and treatment of hepatitis B.

Visit www.hepb.org to learn how to find your legislator online. Or visit www.congress.org and select "U.S. Congress" link.

BInformed, Winter 2006.