H.R. 10345: Epidemic Barrier and Outbreak Leadership Act (119th Congress) Bill Summary

This bill would require the United States to rejoin the World Health Organization (WHO) within 30 days after the law takes effect. It also directs the President and the Secretary of State to work with the WHO right away on responding to the Ebola outbreak in Central and Eastern Africa.

What the bill does

Orders the executive branch to take the steps needed for the United States to become a WHO member again.
Requires action within 30 days of enactment.
Directs immediate cooperation with the WHO on the Ebola response.

Funding

The bill authorizes whatever money is needed to carry it out, including:

Paying the United States’ WHO dues and any other costs needed to restore membership.
Supporting the WHO and other U.N. efforts related to the Ebola outbreak, including voluntary contributions and program support.

Purpose stated by the bill

The bill says that infectious disease outbreaks can threaten public health, national security, and the economy. It also says the WHO helps with disease tracking, outbreak coordination, and sharing public health information, and that U.S. participation helps monitor threats and coordinate with other countries.