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WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) spoke before the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee today during a legislative hearing to highlight three pieces of legislation he leads in the House that would provide hope and support to those living with Alzheimer’s and their families.

The three bills Tonko has pushed to advance are:

• H.R. 7218, Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer's Act
• H.R. 620, Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act
• H.R. 619, NAPA Reauthorization Act

Tonko gave an opening statement as well as asking questions of Dr. Joanne Pike, President and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Impact Movement about the need for his legislation to address the disease. He also recognized and thanked local individuals and advocates in New York’s Capital Region who help provide a voice to those living with Alzheimer’s.

His opening remarks as prepared for delivery can be read below. Tonko’s questioning of Dr. Pike can be viewed HERE.

Thank you, Ranking Member Eshoo, and thank you Chair Guthrie, for your focus on Alzheimer’s in today’s hearing. And thank you to all of our witnesses for your expertise and insights.

Special thanks to Dr. Joanne Pike - CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association and the Alzheimer’s Impact Movement – for joining us today.

I am honored to be in the fight to end Alzheimer’s.

I know so many in our community and around the nation who are suffering from this disease and whose families carry a heavy burden.

Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia and is unfortunately growing – fast.

Unfortunately, 1 in 3 seniors die with Alzheimer's or another dementia.

In 2023, Alzheimer’s and other dementias cost the nation an estimated $345 billion.

Ever since my first days in Congress, I’ve pushed for strong action to support those living with Alzheimer’s by driving medical research, federal coordination, early detection and public health infrastructure and support for caregivers.

I invite all my colleagues here to support NAPA Reauthorization, BOLD Reauthorization and the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act to continue our fight against Alzheimer’s and to support the millions of Americans living with this devastating disease.

Together let’s provide much needed hope.