Why it matters: The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging continues its self-managed lobbying approach, maintaining direct control over nuclear medicine policy advocacy. Operating as both client and registrant allows specialized expertise that external firms might struggle to replicate.

By the numbers: SNMMI spent $80,000 on lobbying in Q2 2025, part of $380,000 over 12 months across 6 disclosures. The in-house team focuses on three consistent areas: budget/appropriations, health issues, and Medicare/Medicaid. Two experienced lobbyists, Douglas S. Burrichter and Julia Jackson Bellinger, lead current efforts.

Why now: Congressional hearings reveal alarm over proposed NIH funding cuts of 40-44%. Chair Susan Collins and Vice Chair Patty Murray expressed concerns about grant terminations and staffing reductions. Dr. Barry Slechman noted NCI investments contributed to a 34% decline in cancer mortality over 30 years.

The agenda: SNMMI seeks theranostics report language in FY26 Labor-HHS funding legislation to leverage existing NIH National Cancer Institute funds. They’re also tracking the Find It Early Act (S.1410), which covers molecular breast imaging, and H.R.879, addressing Medicare payment adjustments for physicians.

Competitive landscape: No specific competitive lobbying activity was identified around theranostics funding or the targeted legislation in available data.

Between the lines: The timing aligns with significant congressional support for cancer diagnostics expansion. The Finn Sawyer Access to Cancer Testing Act shows bipartisan backing for molecular diagnostics. The Nuclear Medicine Clarification Act (H.R.2541) demonstrates continued congressional attention to nuclear medicine policy. Key supporters include Senator Thom Tillis and Senator Amy Klobuchar advocating for NIH funding.

The bottom line: SNMMI’s focused approach targets existing funding streams rather than new appropriations, potentially offering a more realistic path during budget constraints while building on established congressional support for cancer research innovation.

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