Foundation Fighting Blindness Advocates for Vision Research Funding Before U.S. Senate

Foundation Fighting Blindness Advocates for Vision Research Funding

On June 13, 2025, Jason Menzo, the CEO of the Foundation Fighting Blindness, made a significant impact by presenting expert testimony before the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies. His passionate appeal aimed to secure robust funding for the National Eye Institute (NEI) in the upcoming Fiscal Year 2026, stressing the critical importance of maintaining its independent status within the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

The NEI stands as the sole federal agency focused exclusively on vision research, playing an invaluable role in restoring sight and advancing treatment for retinal diseases. During his testimony, Menzo highlighted the profound implications of NEI's work for millions of Americans affected by vision loss, including those with conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration. “NEI’s efforts in restoring sight and delivering hope are orchestrated through groundbreaking research that leads to life-changing treatments,” he stated.

The Foundation Fighting Blindness emphasized that previous NEI-supported research has yielded transformative outcomes, including the first FDA-approved gene therapy for inherited retinal diseases. This landmark achievement exemplifies how public-private partnerships and sustained investment in vision science accelerate the path to innovative treatments that can benefit countless patients.

However, Menzo cautioned against the detrimental effects of inconsistent funding, which destroys clinical trials, disrupts ongoing research projects, and can lead to the attrition of top scientific talent. He pointed out that for every dollar invested in NIH-funded research, a staggering $2.56 in new economic activity is generated, labeling this a sound investment by Congress that contributes not only to scientific progress but also to economic growth across the nation.

According to Menzo, “The conversation we’re engaging in goes beyond merely restoring sight; it’s about ensuring that America retains its leadership in biomedical innovation while fostering economic development within our communities.”

As part of the Foundation's strategy, Menzo called on Congress to prioritize two key petitions: first, to provide consistent and substantial funding for the National Eye Institute in the FY2026 Labor-HHS Appropriations bill, and second, to uphold NEI’s independent institute status to guarantee focused investments in vision research.

By ensuring sustained financial support for the NEI, Menzo argues that we can preserve the momentum necessary for groundbreaking discoveries in the treatment of blinding diseases, which currently affect an estimated 10 million Americans. The economic toll of vision loss is profound, costing the U.S. economy approximately $134.2 billion annually, highlighting the urgent need for continued funding and support.

The full testimony presented to the Senate is accessible online at FightingBlindness.org, where the Foundation also shares updates on their vital work and ongoing campaigns to combat vision-related diseases.

Founded in 1971, the Foundation Fighting Blindness has been a leading force in funding research for retinal degenerative diseases, raising over $954 million towards groundbreaking studies aimed at treating conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa, Usher syndrome, and age-related macular degeneration. Through these efforts, the Foundation continues to pave the way for potential cures and improved treatments for millions looking for hope and a brighter future.

For further details about the Foundation's initiatives or to participate in their mission, individuals can visit FightingBlindness.org.