The US Senate has passed the Improving Access to Clinical Trials Act, which enables patients with rare diseases to take part in clinical trials and still be eligible to receive medical benefits from the government.
The bill now awaits consideration by the US House of Representatives.
Patients with rare diseases have not been participating in clinical trials as the current law prevents anyone receiving supplemental security income from being paid research compensation.
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation president and CEO Robert J Beall said the legislation would allow patients with cystic fibrosis to take part in clinical studies.
"We are one step closer to breaking down a serious barrier to participation in clinical trials, which one day could deliver a cure for cystic fibrosis,'' Beall said.
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