Appropriations Chairman Hal Rogers, along with State and Foreign Operations Subcommittee Chairwoman Kay Granger and Labor, Health and Human Services Subcommittee Chairman Tom Cole responded today to the Administration’s announcement that federal agencies will use existing funding for efforts to address the Zika epidemic. In February, the Chairs called on the Administration to tap into these existing funds to provide the quickest and most efficient response to the Zika outbreak.

The statement follows:

“Recent outbreaks – including the devastating Ebola virus – have highlighted the necessity of a rapid, direct, and strategic response to global health crises. It is clear that Zika poses a real threat to public health, and the United States must respond quickly to address the current situation and be prepared for the potential spread of this disease within our borders.

“That is why more than a month ago we called on the Administration to use existing funding and legal authorities to provide the most immediate and effective response to the Zika outbreak. We are pleased to hear today that federal agencies are heeding our call. These resources – which the agencies already have on hand – will help stop the growth of this devastating disease around the world, and prepare for and protect against outbreaks within our borders.

“We will look carefully at the details of today’s proposal by the Administration to ensure the best and most effective use of these funds, and to provide proper oversight.  As we move forward, the Appropriations Committee will continue to monitor the changing needs resulting from this unpredictable crisis to assure the resources necessary for the response are available.”