WASHINGTON, D.C. –Bipartisan legislation championed by U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine to support federal funding for pediatric medical research passed the Senate today and will now go to the President for his signature. The Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act honors the memory of Gabriella Miller, a young girl from Leesburg who was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor the size of a walnut at age 9. The legislation, passed by the House of Representatives in December, had strong bipartisan support, including from House Majority Leader Eric Cantor and U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch.

“This bipartisan effort is about making sure pediatric disease research is a high priority,” said Kaine. “I’m proud we were able to pass this legislation that honors Gabriella Miller, her family, and her inspiring work as an advocate for pediatric disease research. I applaud the leadership of my fellow Richmonder Eric Cantor in moving this bill through the House.”

“I think we all can agree that pediatric research should be a higher national priority than funding national political conventions,” Warner said. “Gabriella Miller was an incredibly courageous Virginian and a national spokesperson for childhood cancer awareness and research. I can think of no better way to honor Gabriella’s strength and example than by enacting this legislation.”

The Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act is supported by more than 100 patient advocacy groups and has more than 2,600 Citizen Cosponsors.