National Plan for Epilepsy Act

S. 494, the National Plan for Epilepsy Act, directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to review federal programs, research, and activities related to epilepsy—covering prevention, early identification, diagnosis, and treatment—and to update those programs and strategic plans as needed. The review must examine research findings and knowledge gaps, disparities among populations with epilepsy, coordination between federal agencies, opportunities to prevent sudden unexpected death in epilepsy, and ways to improve surveillance and care. The Secretary must consult federal agencies and outside stakeholders, including patient advocates and non-federal experts, in conducting the review.

The bill primarily affects HHS and other federal health agencies, which would take on new review and coordination responsibilities, as well as the broader epilepsy research and patient-advocacy community, whose input would be formally solicited. It does not create new programs or funding directly but aims to improve coordination and identify gaps in existing federal efforts.

Within two years of enactment, the Secretary must report findings to the Senate HELP Committee and the House Energy and Commerce Committee, including a summary of stakeholder input, recommendations for improving federal coordination, and any statutory barriers to implementing changes. The bill passed the Senate by unanimous consent on August 4, 2026, and now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.

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