In what has become the most divisive and contentious budget debate in the history of the nation, the ACR and other organizations convinced Congress that biomedical research is one of the most important investments that the government can make. Both that figure and the overall NIH figure are significantly higher than the best scenario envisioned after the budget battles began. The funding is retroactive to October 1, 1995. Early committee recommendations in both houses called for cuts in the NIH budget. Intense lobbying by the ACR and other interested organizations helped the Republicans understand that biomedical research creates high-wage jobs, fosters economic growth, and contributes to a favorable balance of trade.
Research can also reduce the cost of health care in the future.
The ACR began its lobbying efforts last February with a visit by rheumatologists and patients to Capitol Hill. ACR lobbyists continued the work through the rest of the year. Lobbying efforts are beginning now for the FY96 budget. ACR Government Affairs Committee members and patients will spend a day on Capitol Hill to discuss the budget and Medicare reform. The review was mandated by Congress.