WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mike Rulli (OH-6) today applauded the launch of a five-year, $10 million research initiative by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to investigate the long-term health impacts of the 2023 train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio.
The initiative was announced under the leadership of U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya—following strong advocacy from Vice President JD Vance, who played a critical role in urging federal action on behalf of the affected community.
“This effort would not have been possible without the persistence and leadership of Vice President Vance,” said Rulli. “His tireless commitment to the people of East Palestine helped make this historic research effort a reality.”
The initiative will include longitudinal studies to monitor short- and long-term health outcomes, comprehensive public health surveillance to guide medical care and prevention, and close collaboration with local stakeholders to ensure the community’s concerns are fully addressed.
Congressman Rulli issued the following statement:
“Once again, this administration is showing the American people what true leadership looks like—putting Americans first,” said Congressman Rulli. “Unlike the Biden Administration, which tried to sweep under the rug the catastrophic negligence and long-term health consequences of the East Palestine disaster, President Trump, Secretary Kennedy, and Director Bhattacharya are stepping up and putting Ohioans’ health first. I couldn’t be more pleased with this announcement and the meaningful support this administration is delivering to my constituents.”
Research proposals are due by July 21, with selected projects expected to begin this fall.
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