DeLauro Statement on the Administration’s Request for Emergency Funding to Combat Zika

WASHINGTON, DC (February 8, 2016) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement regarding the Administration’s request for $1.8 billion in emergency funding to prepare for and respond to the Zika virus, both domestically and internationally.

“The Zika virus continues to be an international public health threat and I applaud the Administration for taking steps to prepare for and respond to the virus, as well as find a vaccine. We must start working now to stop the virus’s spread and care for those already impacted by it. I urge my fellow Members of Congress to immediately fund the President’s request.

“We should not be having discussions on funding during outbreaks of diseases and other public health crises. Congress should fund the public health emergency fund, so that our response to diseases like Ebola and Zika is not slowed by Congressional lethargy. Currently, the emergency fund has no resources and for this reason, I have introduced the Public Health Emergency Preparedness Act to fund it with $5 billion. We have a moral duty to address these crises, and by having the resources available to respond when a crisis happens, we can save lives and ensure the health and well-being of people around the world.”

DeLauro is the senior Democrat on the subcommittee responsible for funding the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

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