State considers establishing Dementia Prevention and Research Institute

Austin—Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued a statement following the bipartisan passage of Senate Bill 5 and Senate Joint Resolution 3, Establishing the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (DPRIT):

“Currently, over 500,000 Texans suffer from some form of Dementia, including horrible diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Vascular Dementia, and related dementias,” Patrick said. “Dementia affects more than just the afflicted, it impacts entire Texas families.

“After hearing countless stories of Texans whose lives were shattered by this silent killer, I felt it was time to create the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (DPRIT) to bring world-class Dementia researchers to our state. Texas, with our vast resources, has an opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of millions. DPRIT is structured like the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT), which has been a resounding success in bringing the best cancer researchers and doctors to Texas.
 “I am proud that legislation creating DPRIT has passed the Texas Senate with bipartisan support. Sen. Joan Huffman has been an influential leader in carrying this legislation, and Rep. Tom Craddick, R-Midland, will carry this vital bill in the House.

“With a steadfast commitment, Texas has the potential to become a world leader in combating Dementia through the search for effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure. Once SB 5 and SJR 3 pass the Texas House and are signed by Gov. Abbott, voters must approve the creation of DPRIT at the ballot box as a constitutional amendment in November.”

Senate Bill 5, authored by Sen. Joan Huffman, establishes the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (DPRIT) to accelerate research into Dementia and related disorders, enhance innovation and the potential for medical or scientific breakthroughs, improve the health of Texas residents, and establish Texas as a leader in the field.

Senate Joint Resolution 3, by Sen. Joan Huffman, is the constitutional amendment that proposes establishment of DPRIT and would transfer $3 billion to the Dementia Prevention & Research Fund from state general revenue to provide funding over the next 10 years. SJR 3 limits appropriations out of the fund to no more than $300 million per fiscal year.

SOURCE Office of Texas Lieutenant Governor