Austin, TX. – With the end of the 2025 Texas legislative session, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is optimistic that more people will have access to cancer prevention and early detection services and reinforces its commitment to this effort.
In reflection on the session, ACS CAN Sr. Government Relations Director James Gray released the following statement:
“We saw continued support during the 2025 legislative session, with lawmakers making important investments that strengthen the fight against cancer. We thank lawmakers for their continued funding support for the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT), the Texas Breast and Cervical Cancer Services program, and tobacco prevention and cessation efforts. Their continued support helps fund the numerous critical programs that help detect cancers early and stop tobacco use in youth. Thanks to this, Texas remains the country's second largest public funder of cancer research.
“But our fight is far from over. More than 150,870 Texans will be diagnosed with cancer in 2025. Patients need access to affordable cancer screenings without high out-of-pocket costs so they can detect cancer at the earliest stages and increase chances of survival.
“These patients include people like Craig Garrett from Pearland, Texas. Craig was diagnosed with prostate cancer at the age of 45. As a local business owner, he knows firsthand the weight of out-of-pocket payments accompanying his routine PSA screenings. With friends in his community facing a similar diagnosis, he has seen loved ones delay care simply because of cost.
“House Bill 712 would have enhanced health benefit plan coverage for prostate cancer detection tests by ensuring no cost-sharing, like copayments or deductibles, is charged for these services will greatly benefit the health outcomes of the 21,000 men in Texas that will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year. Unfortunately, the legislation didn’t make it out of the House. ACS CAN looks forward to working with members in the future to get this legislation across the finish line.
“We look forward to working with our volunteers to continue highlighting and advancing critical priorities in 2027. We will build on the momentum we have seen this session across the aisle. To learn about joining our fight as a volunteer, visit fightcancer.org/tx."