In a landmark decision for medical research and neurological health, Texans overwhelmingly voted YES on Proposition 14 on November 4, 2025, approving a $3 billion investment in brain health research. This monumental step promises to accelerate progress toward the prevention and treatments for Parkinson’s disease (PD) and a range of other neurological conditions that impact millions of families.
The vote marks a powerful victory for the PD community and for all advocates who raised their voices in support of science, innovation, and hope. Proposition 14 establishes the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute, which will channel billions of dollars into understanding, preventing, and treating diseases of the brain including PD, Alzheimer’s, and other neurodegenerative disorders.
This is not the first time Texas has voted for an amendment for additional medical research. Texans took similar action in 2007, passing an amendment to establish the Cancer Prevention and Treatment Institute of Texas, which expanded funding for cancer research. Both these amendments demonstrate bipartisan support for advancing medical research to improve the health of Texans affected by these diseases.
The American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) along with advocacy partners the Michael J. Fox Foundation and the Parkinson’s Foundation work tirelessly to educate voters and lawmakers about the urgent need for investment in brain health. Our collective efforts helped make the case that funding large-scale, collaborative research will not only improve lives but also strengthen innovation, healthcare, and economic growth across the country.
This $3 billon funding package will help launch new clinical research centers, expand neuroscience education, and strengthen support within the industry. The money will not only go towards opening up a state funded dementia research facility, but it would also fund the operation of the new center along with research for prevention of neurological diseases. For people with PD, this could mean faster development of new therapies, improved diagnostic/prevention tools, and greater access to cutting-edge clinical trials.
This victory in Texas should serve as a model for the rest of the nation. By prioritizing brain health, states can empower scientific discovery and provide real hope for families affected by neurological diseases all across the country.
“This significant commitment to scientific research will improve the lives of people living with Parkinson’s disease in the Lone Star State,” said Anne Hubbard, Chief Public Policy Officer for the American Parkinson Disease Association. “We applaud the Parkinson’s community for raising its voice to make this investment a reality.”
As APDA celebrates this incredible milestone, the message is clear: collective action works. Thanks to the determination of advocates, researchers, and voters alike, the future of brain health research has never looked brighter.
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This update was written by Clark Jones, PhD, and was reviewed, edited, and approved by Anne Hubbard, Chief Public Policy Officer, APDA.