The Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program
A 70% Cut to Forensic Funding?
We Can’t Let This Happen.
The SUDC Foundation joins the National Association of Medical Examiners—in urgently calling on Congress to restore full funding for the Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants, our nation’s only dedicated federal funding stream for forensic science.
Without this funding, vital death investigations—including those into Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC)—could be delayed or compromised. Forensic investigations, timely autopsies, and post-mortem toxicology are all critical to understanding and preventing sudden unexplained deaths and ensuring families get the answers they desperately need.
What’s at Stake:
- Timely and thorough autopsies and forensic testing
- Critical research into unexplained child deaths
- Public health and safety
- Families’ ability to receive answers
Congress has proposed slashing this funding by 70% in FY26, from $50 million down to $10 million. We’re urging lawmakers to fully restore Coverdell funding to $50 million nationally.
How You Can Help:
For Medical Professionals:
If your work relies on forensic science funding—or if you believe every family deserves high-quality investigations for children—please reach out to your U.S. Senators and Representatives today. Personalize your message: share how these resources impact your work or your state and why strong forensic capacity matters.
For SUDC Community:
Every voice counts. Join us and sign the petition to protect vital forensic funding.