1. United States
2. Mo.
3. Letter

I am writing to express serious concern regarding the Department of Health and Human Services’ fiscal year 2027 budget priorities and the direction of the agency under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Recent reporting highlights that this budget proposes significant reductions in overall funding, including an estimated 12 percent decrease compared to prior levels. These cuts are accompanied by structural changes, program consolidations, and shifts in priorities that affect key public health institutions such as the National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other critical programs. While fiscal responsibility is important, the scope and nature of these changes raise important questions about their impact on public health, medical research, and the federal government’s ability to respond to ongoing and future health challenges. Reductions in research funding and program capacity may have long term consequences for innovation, disease prevention, and national preparedness. In addition, the broader restructuring and reallocation of resources suggest a significant shift in how the federal government approaches its role in public health. These changes deserve thorough oversight to ensure they are lawful, transparent, and in the best interest of the American people. I urge you to take the following actions: -Request detailed justification for the proposed funding reductions and program changes -Ensure that critical public health and research programs are not weakened -Exercise strong congressional oversight over HHS budget implementation and restructuring efforts -Advocate for a balanced approach that maintains both fiscal responsibility and public health protections Congress plays a vital role in safeguarding both taxpayer resources and the health and well being of the nation. These proposed changes warrant careful review and active oversight. I respectfully ask that you publicly address these concerns and take appropriate action.