Bill > SB998

This bill creates the Alzheimer's Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (APRIT), a new state agency dedicated to advancing research and prevention strategies for Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. The institute will be governed by a nine-member oversight committee appointed by the governor, lieutenant governor, and speaker of the house, with members representing diverse geographic and medical backgrounds. The institute's primary purposes include fostering innovative research, attracting research capabilities to Texas institutions, and developing a comprehensive research plan to collaborate on Alzheimer's research. The bill establishes a detailed governance structure, including a chief executive officer, peer review committee, and program integration committee, with strict conflict of interest rules. The institute will have the power to award grants to research institutions, with up to $300 million available annually, and will require grant recipients to provide matching funds. A special Alzheimer's Prevention and Research Fund will be created to support the institute's work, with the Texas Treasury Safekeeping Trust Company managing the fund's investments. The bill includes provisions for annual public reporting, financial audits, and ethical research standards. Importantly, the bill's implementation is contingent on voters approving a related constitutional amendment that would transfer $3 billion from state general revenue to fund the institute.

Budget and Finance

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB998