Federal epilepsy plan and advisory council proposed through 2035

What does this do?

S 494 directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to create a formal written plan coordinating epilepsy research, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention across federal agencies including NIH, CDC, FDA, and the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs. The plan would run through the end of 2035. The bill also establishes an Advisory Council that must meet at least four times a year, hold public meetings, and submit regular recommendations to Congress.

Who does it affect?

The bill most directly affects the roughly 3.4 million Americans living with epilepsy, along with their families and caregivers. It would also affect doctors, researchers, and federal agencies required to share data and coordinate efforts.

Why does it matter?

The bill creates a structured coordination mechanism for existing and future federal epilepsy efforts but does not establish or fund new programs on its own. The Secretary would be required to submit yearly progress reports to Congress, adding an ongoing accountability layer to federal epilepsy policy.

Where does it stand?