U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Supports Legislation to Invest in Fight Against Zika Virus
“We must take steps to prevent, detect, and respond to the Zika virus.”
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin is supporting legislation that would provide the necessary investment to fight the spread of the Zika virus.
More than 800 Americans have been infected with the Zika virus, including about 90 pregnant women, in 40 states, Washington, D.C., and 3 U.S. Territories. On April 13, 2016, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed that the Zika virus does, in fact, cause microcephaly and other birth defects.
“I believe Congress has a responsibility to act on the public health crisis posed by the Zika virus,” said Senator Baldwin. “Zika has been linked to many health problems, but most notably a terrible birth defect. This is a serious and dangerous threat and we must take steps to prevent, detect, and respond to the Zika virus.”
The legislation, introduced by Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL), would fund the Obama Administration’s request of $1.9 billion to fight the Zika virus, providing resources to the Department of Health and Human Services, Department of State, and global health programs, while also ensuring that funding allocated to fight Ebola remains in place.
In addition to cosponsoring this legislation, last week, Senator Baldwin joined her colleagues in sending a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Thad Cochran (R-MS), calling for passage of the President’s emergency funding request for prevention and treatment of the Zika virus outbreak.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.
Mentioned in This Press Release
Recent Press Releases by U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin
Baldwin Announces Over $17.7 Million to Tackle Fentanyl and Opioid Crisis in Wisconsin
May 7th, 2024 by U.S. Sen. Tammy BaldwinWisconsin receives increased funding following the passage of Baldwin-led legislation
Baldwin, Bipartisan Group of Senators Urge USDA to Strengthen Coordination in Avian Flu Outbreak Response
May 7th, 2024 by U.S. Sen. Tammy BaldwinLetter comes after Baldwin called on Biden Administration to take immediate action to contain the avian flu outbreak and protect dairy farmers, producers, and consumers
Baldwin Notches Wins for Wisconsin in Senate Farm Bill Framework
May 6th, 2024 by U.S. Sen. Tammy BaldwinBill supports Wisconsin farmers and bolsters rural communities