To secure New York State’s future health and economic strength, we must protect the research that creates every new medicine—beginning with a state-backed Empire Biomedical Research Institute (EBRI).

To the Governor and Legislature of New York State:

New York is at a crossroads. Medicine is advancing at a remarkable pace—bringing real, tangible benefits to patients, with New York scientists leading the way. Many people are alive today because of breakthroughs that began in research labs long before they reached a doctor’s office. And the next wave of discoveries is poised to reshape how we treat the toughest conditions—cancer, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, heart disease, and more.

But here’s something many people don’t realize. Biomedical research does not just save lives. It also strengthens our economy by creating good jobs, bringing new companies to New York, and helping lower health care costs over time. Which means federal instability in research funding now threatens both medical progress and one of New York State's strongest economic engines.

EBRI is a transformative investment that doesn’t compete with other urgent needs—it equips New York State to meet them. Not funding it now worsens pressures; funding it grows the economy to help fix them. With the FY2027 budget cycle beginning, New York has a rare, time-sensitive opportunity to act to ensure a healthier, more affordable future.

We, the undersigned scientists, physicians, healthcare workers, research staff, educators, students, patients, and residents, call on you to establish and fund the Empire Biomedical Research Institute (EBRI) by including it in the FY2027 Executive Budget and supporting it through every stage of the state process.

We support an initial $500 million in seed funding and a long-term $6 billion state commitment to build a world-leading biomedical engine for New Yorkers.

EBRI will focus on four statewide priorities:

1. People. Competitive grants and fellowships that support researchers, trainees, and clinicians so they can build careers in New York rather than leaving for states with more stable support.

2. Innovation. Translational hubs that link universities, hospitals, and industry to accelerate new diagnostics, drugs, and devices.

3. Infrastructure. Shared core facilities and technology centers that give institutions from Buffalo to Long Island the tools needed to compete nationally.

4. Regional equity. Programs that ensure biomedical investment lifts communities across the state and not only a few zip codes.

New York once led the world in medical breakthroughs. However, California and Texas have already established multi-billion-dollar biomedical institutes that attract companies, create jobs, and generate strong economic returns. Without a similar commitment, New York risks falling behind.

EBRI will deliver concrete benefits for every New Yorker:

• Faster development of new treatments for cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, autoimmune disorders, and rare diseases.
• Thousands of high-skilled jobs in research, advanced manufacturing, and clinical development that support families and keep young talent in the state.
• Economic returns that historically exceed 2.5 to 1, creating new revenue that can be reinvested in affordability priorities like housing, education, and public health.
• Stronger hospitals, research centers, and innovation districts in cities and rural communities throughout the state.

This investment is about more than research. It strengthens New York’s economy, improves health outcomes, and ensures that discoveries made in our laboratories translate into benefits for our residents.

We urge the Governor and Legislature to include EBRI in the FY2027 Executive Budget and support its approval and implementation. New York has the chance to lead again, and this is the moment to act.

Add your name to show your support for EBRI and for a healthier, more affordable future for all New Yorkers.

Petition organized by NY-CURES (New York Science Coalition, Inc. 501(c)(4)), a statewide coalition dedicated to securing stable and competitive public investment in biomedical research and translational innovation.