House Unanimously Passes Down Syndrome Research Act

The entire U.S. House of Representatives just agreed on something remarkable: permanently funding research that could transform lives for people with Down syndrome and accelerate breakthroughs for everyone.

On Monday evening, lawmakers unanimously passed the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act, named after a passionate advocate who inspired people worldwide through her warmth, talent, and determination. DeOndra, sister of actor and musician Jamie Foxx, was a gifted dancer who performed at the Grammy Awards and delivered keynote speeches at international conferences before her passing.

The legislation makes permanent the NIH INCLUDE Project, the first research initiative spanning the entire National Institutes of Health focused on Down syndrome. Since launching in 2018, the program has already catalyzed discoveries related to Alzheimer's disease, autoimmune conditions, sleep apnea, cancer, heart disease, and liver dysfunction.

"There isn't a day that goes by that our family doesn't miss DeOndra, but today I know she is dancing in heaven," Jamie Foxx said. "Seeing the House unanimously pass a bill bearing her name is an incredible honor."

Representatives Diana DeGette and Richard Hudson led the bipartisan effort, which builds on years of advocacy by the Global Down Syndrome Foundation. The foundation's leaders, including self-advocate Frank Stephens, testified before Congress in 2017 about the potential of Down syndrome research to unlock understanding of other major diseases.

The Ripple Effect

This isn't just about one condition. Research into Down syndrome helps scientists understand fundamental questions about human health because people with Down syndrome experience higher rates of conditions that affect the general population. Every discovery made through INCLUDE has the potential to improve outcomes for millions of Americans facing Alzheimer's, autoimmune disorders, and other health challenges.

The legislation has already passed the House Energy and Commerce Committee unanimously in May. Colorado serves as ground zero for this research, hosting the Global Down Syndrome Foundation and the Linda Crnic Institute, the largest research facility dedicated to Down syndrome in the world.

Michelle Sie Whitten, president of the Global Down Syndrome Foundation, emphasized the importance of making INCLUDE permanent rather than dependent on annual funding battles. "This legislation will help preserve DeOndra's extraordinary legacy by ensuring that life-saving Down syndrome research will continue and grow," she said.

Now the bill heads to the Senate, where supporters hope bipartisan momentum will carry it across the finish line. When it becomes law, it will represent a permanent commitment to understanding conditions that affect millions while honoring a woman who dedicated her life to helping others.