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Diaz-Balart: Proposed Funds Are Critical to Combat Zika

May 16, 2016

WASHINGTON – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) released the following statement after House Appropriations Committee Chairman Hal Rogers (KY-05) introduced a bill proposing $622.1 million in FY16 funds to combat the Zika virus in the United States.

“The funds proposed to combat Zika are critical. This horrible disease has the capability to infect many, and we must focus on stopping it before it continues to spread. This is especially important in Florida, where the spring and summer seasons are especially rainy, creating a breeding ground for mosquitos. It is imperative the Centers for Disease Control and the Administration provide Congress with detailed guidance on how they plan to spend these proposed funds. Congress must know these funds will be spent efficiently and effectively to battle this disease.

“I want to thank Chairman Rogers for his leadership on the issue and ensuring that the United States is prepared to combat Zika.”

The legislation includes:

  • $230 million for the National Institutes of Health that will support clinical development for a vaccine,
  • $170 million for the Centers for Disease Control to focus on mosquito control efforts and readiness and response programs for states and territories with heavy mosquito populations, such as Florida
    • Within the funding for the CDC, $50 million is included for maternal and child health programs for those affected by the Zika virus
  • $119.1 million for the State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development,
    • Within the funding for USAID, $100 million is included for international mosquito control efforts, known as “vector control”



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