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HR 401

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.; 112 years of service; Delta Day at the state capitol; March 3, 2025; recognize

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rhonda Burnough and 5 co-sponsors

HR 401 prohibits federal funding for the World Health Organization, aiming to protect taxpayers and limit U.S. involvement in international health initiatives.

House Read and Adopted
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Bill Summary · HR 401

Summary of HR 401: No Taxpayer Funding for the World Health Organization Act

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HR 401
  • Title: No Taxpayer Funding for the World Health Organization Act
  • Status: Introduced in the House of Representatives
  • Introduced On: January 14, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The No Taxpayer Funding for the World Health Organization Act aims to prohibit the use of federal funds to support the World Health Organization (WHO). The intent behind this legislation is to ensure that U.S. taxpayer dollars are not allocated to an international organization that some lawmakers believe may not align with U.S. interests or priorities.

Key Provisions

  • Funding Prohibition: The bill specifically seeks to prevent any federal funding from being directed to the WHO. This includes all forms of financial support, whether direct or indirect.
  • Accountability Measures: The legislation may include provisions for increased oversight and accountability regarding how U.S. funds are utilized in international health initiatives, although specific details on these measures are not provided in the current text.

Affected Parties

  • World Health Organization (WHO): The primary entity impacted by this bill would be the WHO, which relies on contributions from member states, including the United States, for its operations and programs.
  • U.S. Public Health Initiatives: The bill could indirectly affect various public health initiatives that collaborate with or receive support from the WHO, potentially limiting the scope of U.S. involvement in global health efforts.
  • Taxpayers: The legislation is framed as a protection for taxpayers, ensuring that their money is not used to fund an organization that some lawmakers criticize.

Legislative Process

  • Committee Referral: Upon introduction, HR 401 was referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs for further consideration. This committee will review the bill and may hold hearings or discussions before it is brought to the floor for a vote.
  • Next Steps: If the committee approves the bill, it will move forward in the legislative process, potentially leading to debates and votes in the House of Representatives.

Conclusion

HR 401 represents a significant legislative effort to reshape U.S. financial commitments to international health organizations, specifically the WHO. By prohibiting taxpayer funding, the bill reflects ongoing debates about the role of international organizations in U.S. health policy and funding priorities. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for global health initiatives and U.S. foreign policy will continue to be scrutinized.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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