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119th Congress
Independent · Nonpartisan · Reader-supported
HOUSEH.R. 4348· 119th Congress

Reauthorize Federal Tick-Borne Disease Research

To reauthorize the Kay Hagan Tick Act, and for other purposes.

Sponsor
Christopher Smith (R-NJ)
Introduced
Jul 10, 2025
Last Action
Jul 2, 2026
Passage
68%
Introduced
Jul 10, 2025
Committee
Jul 2, 2026
3
Floor Vote
4
Both Chambers
5
Enacted
01 — The Text

What.

  • Extends the Kay Hagan Tick Act, which funds research into tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease.
  • Detailed provisions pending—official summary not yet published by Congressional Research Service.
  • Passed committee unanimously (48-0), indicating broad bipartisan support for the measure.
02 — The Stakes

So what?

  • Affects public health researchers, medical institutions, and the estimated 476,000 Americans diagnosed with Lyme disease annually.
  • Ensures continued federal funding for prevention, detection, and treatment of tick-borne diseases.
  • No apparent tradeoffs or opposing groups—unanimous committee vote suggests consensus on disease research value.
03 — The Path

Now what?

  • Bill passed committee in May 2026 and was formally reported in July. Next: full House floor vote.
  • With 36 cosponsors and unanimous committee approval, passage is likely but not guaranteed.
  • Track progress at Congress.gov; contact your House representative to express support or concerns.
Legislative History

Actions.

  • Jul 2, 2026Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 630.
  • Jul 2, 2026Reported by the Committee on Energy and Commerce. H. Rept. 119-725.
  • Jul 2, 2026Reported by the Committee on Energy and Commerce. H. Rept. 119-725.
  • May 21, 2026Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 48 - 0.
  • May 21, 2026Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
  • May 13, 2026Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.
  • May 13, 2026Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
  • Jul 10, 2025Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.