The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network has placed a billboard in Montgomery thanking Congress for investments in cancer research for fiscal year 2026.
The billboard, located less than a mile from the Alabama State Capitol, thanks federal lawmakers for increasing funding for the National Institutes of Health and its National Cancer Institute.
“18M cancer survivors are here for America’s 250th because of you. Thank you, Congress, for fighting cancer together,” the billboard reads.
The fiscal year 2026 Consolidated Appropriations Act, passed in February, provides $47.2 billion for NIH—a $415 million increase from fiscal year 2025—and $7.352 billion for NCI, a $128 million increase.
Gary Cornelius, a cancer survivor from Cullman, emphasized his support for federal investment in cancer research in a statement released by ACS CAN.
“As a cancer survivor who was diagnosed when my daughter was very young, I know the importance of cancer research more than most,” Cornelius said. “Without previous breakthroughs, I may not be here today. We have made significant strides in understanding and treating cancer, resulting in improved outcomes and longer lives for countless individuals.”
ACS CAN installed billboards in the Birmingham and Montgomery areas last August calling on Congress to protect cancer research funding in the fiscal year 2026 appropriations process.
The advertisements followed a White House Office of Management and Budget proposal to cut funding for NIH and NCI by up to 40 percent.
Alongside last year’s billboard campaign, ACS CAN Alabama representatives met with the state’s federal lawmakers throughout the appropriations process and urged them to reject the proposed cuts. The organization also hosted a cancer research day showcasing the work of Alabama researchers during the 2026 Legislative Session.
“Thanks in large part to the leadership of Alabama’s Senator Katie Britt, this funding strengthens the nation’s ability to pursue lifesaving breakthroughs, accelerate innovation and ensure patients and families benefit from the most advanced cancer prevention, detection and treatment,” ACS CAN wrote.
The new billboard is on East South Street, west of South Union Street, in Montgomery.
