The DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act of 2025 is a proposed law that aims to enhance research, training, and investigations related to Down syndrome. It seeks to amend the Public Health Service Act to establish a program managed by the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This program, known as the 'INvestigation of Co-occurring conditions across the Lifespan to Understand Down syndromE Project' (INCLUDE Project), focuses on studying various aspects of Down syndrome throughout an individual's life. Key areas of research include high-risk, high-reward studies on the effects of trisomy 21 (the genetic condition causing Down syndrome) on human development and health.
The DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act of 2025 has garnered bipartisan support, with sponsors from both Democratic and Republican parties. This cross-party backing suggests a shared commitment to advancing research and understanding of Down syndrome. The bill's focus on comprehensive research throughout an individual's lifespan is seen as a significant step toward improving health outcomes and quality of life for those with Down syndrome.
As of now, there is limited media coverage providing negative perspectives on the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act of 2025. However, potential criticisms could arise regarding the allocation of federal funds, with some questioning whether the resources dedicated to this program might be better utilized elsewhere. Additionally, concerns may be raised about the bill's implementation details and the effectiveness of the proposed research initiatives in achieving tangible benefits for individuals with Down syndrome.
The H.R. 3491 bill, sponsored by Diana DeGette, focuses on health-related initiatives, which aligns closely with the significant financial support she has received from the health professionals sector, totaling $360 million. This substantial amount indicates a strong financial interest that could influence her legislative priorities. The overlap between her top donor industry and the bill's subject matter raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest, as the health professionals may benefit directly from the provisions of this legislation. Additionally, the presence of lobbying activities from various organizations, including undisclosed amounts from several entities, further complicates the transparency surrounding the bill's implications and the motivations behind its sponsorship.
These industries are both affected by this bill and among the sponsor's top donors.
| Industry | Match Type | Related Subject | Donations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Professionals (H01) | Sector | Health | $360,000,000 |
| Total from overlapping industries | $360,000,000 | ||
Organizations that lobbied on issues related to this bill's policy area.
| Client | Lobbying Firm | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| DIRSHU INTERNATIONAL | MERKAVA STRATEGIES CORPORATION | $100,000 |
| CEO WORKS | SAUNDERS GLOBAL DIPLOMACY | $45,000 |
| KAZI IG | SAUNDERS GLOBAL DIPLOMACY | $15,000 |
| KEY LARGO WASTEWATER TREATMENT DISTRICT | HICKS-RICHARDSON ASSOCIATES | $10,000 |
| WATERFRONT GLOBAL | BBT STRATEGIES LLC | $5,200 |
| DIGITALEUROPE | VIVID STRATEGIES LLC | undisclosed |
| INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | MERKAVA STRATEGIES CORPORATION | undisclosed |
| DR. STEPHEN SOLOWAY | MERKAVA STRATEGIES CORPORATION | undisclosed |
| ONE ISRAEL FUND | MERKAVA STRATEGIES CORPORATION | undisclosed |
| HEMOGLOBIN OXYGEN THERAPEUTICS | MERKAVA STRATEGIES CORPORATION | undisclosed |
| ATAOLLAH AMINPOUR | MERKAVA STRATEGIES CORPORATION | undisclosed |
| HERSEL NEMAN | MERKAVA STRATEGIES CORPORATION | undisclosed |
| MORAD BEN NEMAN | MERKAVA STRATEGIES CORPORATION | undisclosed |
| MARK SCOTT | MERKAVA STRATEGIES CORPORATION | undisclosed |
| BORIS MINTS | MERKAVA STRATEGIES CORPORATION | undisclosed |
Source: Senate Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA) filings, 2026
Top industries funding Diana DeGette, ranked by total contributions.
Source: OpenSecrets.org (Center for Responsive Politics)
