Austin, Texas, November 27, 2025
A recent lawsuit in Austin has temporarily halted the establishment of a $3 billion dementia research fund. The fund, approved by voters, aimed to tackle dementia-related diseases. The plaintiffs argue that the election results are invalid due to unverified voting machines. This legal challenge raises concerns about the future of dementia research in Texas, as state officials express disappointment and highlight the impact on those affected by these diseases.
Austin, Texas – Lawsuit Halts $3 Billion Dementia Research Fund
A recent lawsuit has temporarily blocked the establishment of a $3 billion dementia research fund in Texas. The fund, approved by voters on November 4, 2025, aimed to create the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (DPRIT), a state-run initiative focused on combating dementia-related diseases.
Details of the Lawsuit
On November 13, 2025, three Texas residents—Shannon Huggins, Lars Kuslich, and Jose Silvester—filed a lawsuit in Travis County against the Texas Secretary of State’s office. They alleged that certain voting machines used in the election were not federally certified, questioning the validity of the election results. The plaintiffs are representing themselves in this case.
Response from State Officials
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, a key proponent of the fund, criticized the lawsuit, emphasizing that it targets only Proposition 14, which funds the research effort, and not the other 16 propositions approved in the same election. He described the legal action as a “disservice to the roughly 500,000 Texans who suffer from some form of dementia, and their families who suffer along with them.”
Background on the Fund
The proposed DPRIT was designed to attract leading physicians, neuroscientists, and researchers to Texas, aiming to advance studies on dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and related disorders. The initiative sought to fund breakthrough investigations, support prevention and treatment programs, and invest in new medicines and facilities. The initial $3 billion was to be allocated from the state’s surplus or rainy-day fund.
Legal Implications
Under current Texas law, constitutional amendments cannot take effect if their election results are under active court challenge. Although House Bill 16, which would allow such amendments to proceed despite legal challenges, was passed in September, it does not become effective until December 4, 2025. As a result, the DPRIT funding is currently halted pending the outcome of the lawsuit.
Impact on the Community
Advocates for the fund express concern that prolonged legal proceedings could delay critical research and support for individuals affected by dementia. They emphasize the importance of timely action to address the growing prevalence of these diseases in Texas.
Next Steps
The court is expected to review the lawsuit and determine the validity of the claims regarding the voting machines. The outcome will influence the future of the DPRIT and its potential to advance dementia research in the state.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (DPRIT)?
The DPRIT is a proposed state-run initiative in Texas aimed at combating dementia-related diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. It seeks to fund research, support prevention and treatment programs, and invest in new medicines and facilities.
Why has the establishment of DPRIT been temporarily blocked?
A lawsuit filed by three Texas residents alleges that certain voting machines used in the November 4, 2025, election were not federally certified, questioning the validity of the election results that approved the fund.
Who are the plaintiffs in the lawsuit?
The plaintiffs are Shannon Huggins, Lars Kuslich, and Jose Silvester, who filed the lawsuit in Travis County against the Texas Secretary of State’s office.
What is the response from state officials?
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick criticized the lawsuit, stating that it targets only Proposition 14, which funds the research effort, and not the other 16 propositions approved in the same election. He described the legal action as a “disservice to the roughly 500,000 Texans who suffer from some form of dementia, and their families who suffer along with them.”
When will the DPRIT funding be available?
The funding is currently halted pending the outcome of the lawsuit. Under current Texas law, constitutional amendments cannot take effect if their election results are under active court challenge. House Bill 16, which would allow such amendments to proceed despite legal challenges, does not become effective until December 4, 2025.
Key Features of the DPRIT Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Research Focus | Advancing studies on dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and related disorders. |
| Funding | Initial $3 billion allocated from the state’s surplus or rainy-day fund. |
| Objectives | Attract leading researchers, fund breakthrough investigations, support prevention and treatment programs, and invest in new medicines and facilities. |
| Legal Status | Currently halted due to a lawsuit alleging issues with the election process that approved the fund. |
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Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
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