Rep. Upton has expressed his support of Biden's Moon Shot cancer cure initiative.
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Jamie Barrand | Jan 13, 2016

Upton strongly supports Biden's Moon Shot cancer cure initiative

U.S. Vice President Joe Biden has been a vocal advocate of increased funding for and research of rare diseases -- and Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI), who also serves as chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, has lauded Biden's efforts.

Cancer research and awareness are personal issues for Biden. His son, Beau, who was also the former attorney general for the State of Delaware, succumbed to brain cancer last May at the age of 46.

“I believe we need a moon shot in this country to cure cancer,” Biden said during an October press conference. “It’s personal, but I know we can do this.”

During the Jan. 12 State of the Union Address, President Barack Obama announced the launch of the Moon Shot initiative -- a national effort to do just that -- and put Biden in charge.

“Because (Biden has) gone to the mat for all of us on so many issues over the past 40 years, I’m putting Joe in charge of mission control,” Obama said.

Upton was enthusiastic about the program and Biden's role in it.

“Every voice is critical when it comes to advancing cures, and we are delighted with Vice President Biden’s commitment to finding a cure for cancer,” he said. “We encourage him to take a look at our own ‘moon shot’ bill -- the 21st Century Cures Act, which overwhelmingly passed the House in July and includes a number of provisions that would facilitate collaborative research and responsible data sharing.

“The time for cures is now, and we look forward to the Senate’s focus on this critical issue and continue to welcome all parties to the discussion,” Upton said. “Big goals require collaboration, and we stand ready to advance this life-saving legislation in the vice president’s old stomping grounds to bring hope for patients everywhere. Together, we can make a difference.”

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