S. 1983: No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act

This bill is titled the "No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act." It primarily aims to ensure that any international agreements or conventions concerning pandemic prevention and response, which are developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), must be approved by the U.S. Senate before they can take effect.

Key Provisions of the Bill

• The bill specifically seeks to make clear that any agreements reached by the World Health Assembly (the decision-making body of the WHO) regarding pandemic management are classified as treaties.
• Under U.S. law, treaties require the approval of two-thirds of the Senate for ratification. This means that any such international agreement on pandemic preparedness would need significant bipartisan support to be ratified.
• The bill expresses a strong sense of skepticism among the American public regarding the leadership of the WHO and its independence, particularly concerning its relationship with other countries like China.
• It identifies that any such treaty, given its broad scope, should be handled with the rigor and formalities associated with treaties, ensuring congressional oversight and participation in the decision-making process.

Background Context

The bill references several historical points, starting from 2020, when there was significant criticism of the WHO's handling of COVID-19. The legislation notes past actions taken by U.S. officials, including:

• The former President’s decision to halt funding to the WHO due to perceived mismanagement.
• Notifications sent to the United Nations about withdrawing from the WHO, which were later rescinded.
• The establishment of an International Negotiating Body (INB) by the WHO to draft a convention on pandemic prevention.
• The failed negotiations of this convention until June 1, 2024, when a draft was reportedly adopted.

Senate's Perspective

The bill articulates a sense among Senate members that:

• There is a general lack of trust in the WHO.
• Any future agreement from the WHO concerning pandemics should receive legislative scrutiny and approval.
• If it cannot achieve the required Senate majority, then the agreement should not be implemented.

In summary, the bill seeks to ensure robust Senate involvement in international treaties related to pandemic readiness, effectively requiring all such agreements from the WHO to undergo formal treaty processes in the U.S. Senate.

Relevant Companies

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