5.26.06
Bill Creating World-Class
Diabetes Center Heads to Governor
Legislation clearing the way for the creation
of a world-class diabetes research and treatment
center in Oklahoma is now on its way to Governor
Brad Henry for his signature.
Senate Bill 1056, authored by
Senators Cal Hobson and Glenn Coffee and Representative
Thad Balkman, authorizes the University of Oklahoma
Board of Regents to build the center, which would
have locations at the OU Health Sciences Center
campuses in both Oklahoma City and Tulsa. The
measure was approved by both chambers on Friday.
"When we talk about improving
the quality of life in our state, we must acknowledge
that we have some very serious health issues to
address," said Hobson, D-Lexington. "Oklahomans
have more diabetes per capita than any state in
the nation. It impacts the health of our citizens
and it's a drain on our resources. We can turn
that around with this world-class research and
treatment center."
In addition to the locations
in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, the diabetes center
would also have outreach programs that would serve
the entire state.
"The Centers for Disease
Control has estimated that of the children born
in this country in the last five years, one in
three will develop diabetes by the time they are
adults," said Coffee, R-Oklahoma City. "This
is a national epidemic and it is even worse here
in Oklahoma. But we have an opportunity to help
our citizens by the steps we are taking today."
While the measure is strictly
authorization for construction of the center,
supporters have projected the facility will ultimately
need start-up funds of approximately $15 million,
with $10 to $12 million for bricks and mortar
and the remainder for operations, researchers
and matching grants. Several tribes throughout
the state have come forward with pledges of financial
support for the center, and it is hoped the final
budget agreement will include additional resources.
"This legislation represents
an incredible opportunity for Oklahoma,"
said Balkman, R-Norman. "We are on the cusp
of creating something that will improve the health
not only of our own state, but attract diabetes
patients from across the country and possibly
from around the world, presenting the additional
benefit of spurring economic growth in medical
research and development."
OU President David Boren has
championed creation of the center throughout the
legislative session. He said he was extremely
gratified to see the legislation clear its final
legislative hurdle.
"My concern is that virtually
every single Oklahoma family is now impacted by
this terrible disease," said Boren, who himself
has diabetes. "It's the number one cause
of adult blindness, kidney failure and the loss
of limbs in our state. But with this world-class
research and treatment center, we can bring help
and hope to those who need it and possibly, ultimately
even a cure. I want to thank the legislature for
their support of the diabetes center, and I really
look forward to Governor Henry signing the measure
into law."
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