Charleston Leader

The U.S. Senate has approved the Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Reauthorization Act of 2024. This bipartisan legislation was introduced by Senators Shelley Moore Capito, Susan Collins, Catherine Cortez Masto, and Tim Kaine. The bill passed by voice vote and is now awaiting the president's signature to become law.

Senator Capito expressed her support for the legislation, stating, “Over the years, the BOLD Act has begun its work to create an Alzheimer’s disease public health infrastructure across the country.” She emphasized that this legislation empowers federal and state public health agencies in areas such as early detection and dementia caregiving support. Capito added, "I urge the president to quickly sign this important piece of legislation so we can continue the momentum."

Senator Collins highlighted Alzheimer's disease as a significant public health threat affecting nearly seven million Americans. She remarked on the passage of the bill as "a tremendous victory for families and communities nationwide." Collins stated that reauthorizing this act reaffirms commitments to providing necessary tools to combat Alzheimer's.

Robert Egge from the Alzheimer’s Association praised the senators for their dedication and noted that "the Senate passage of the bipartisan BOLD Reauthorization Act will continue to help public health departments implement effective strategies."

The BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Reauthorization Act aims to fund initiatives combating Alzheimer’s disease and preserving brain health. It authorizes $33 million annually over five years for several programs:

- Alzheimer's Disease Public Health Centers of Excellence.

- Public Health Cooperative Agreements with State Health Departments.

- Data Grants for improved analysis and reporting.

Currently, about 6.9 million Americans live with Alzheimer's, costing over $360 billion annually. Without breakthroughs in prevention or treatment, these numbers are expected to rise significantly by 2060.

The act is endorsed by organizations including the Alzheimer’s Association and UsAgainstAlzheimer’s.