AustinHealth: Cancer research roadblock

(NBC) - Scientists said a cancer research initiative approved by Texas voters could face a major obstacle.

None of the money can be distributed unless researchers can come up with large sums from a different source.

Along with a bipartisan team of politicians, cyclist and cancer surivior Lance Armstrong pushed for and won passage of a $3 billion plan to beef up cancer research and prevention in Texas in November 2007.

Supporters said it would make the state a global leader in finding a cure, but for every $1 granted by the state, the Texas constitution requires researchers to come up with 50 cents on their own.