Bill Summary: H.R. 7927
Introduction
H.R. 7927 is a bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Mr. Stewart. The bill aims to prohibit the use of funds to propose amendments to the International Health Regulations, the Global Pandemic Treaty, or any other agreement among World Health Organization member states.
Sense of Congress
The bill states that the United States should hold the World Health Organization (WHO) accountable for its actions and operations. It calls for a thorough investigation into the role of the People's Republic of China in the origin and spread of COVID-19. It also emphasizes that the United States should not give up any authorities to the WHO that would override U.S. law.
Prohibition on Use of Funds
The bill prohibits the use of funds by any federal department or agency to propose amendments to the International Health Regulations, the Global Pandemic Treaty, or any other agreement among World Health Organization member states, if those proposed amendments would supersede or modify authorities under United States law. This includes authorities related to compliance, reporting, or oversight standards. However, this prohibition does not apply if the use of funds is approved in advance by an Act of Congress.
Prohibition on Use of Funds to Provide Contributions to the WHO
The bill also prohibits the use of funds by any federal department or agency to provide contributions to the World Health Organization (WHO) unless and until the Secretary of State certifies to Congress that certain conditions are met. These conditions include holding China accountable for failing to comply with the International Health Regulations, making available a report of WHO's findings and actions, and taking steps to strengthen accountability, impartiality, transparency, and overall effectiveness.
International Health Regulations Defined
The bill defines "International Health Regulations" as the regulations adopted by the 58th World Health Assembly in 2005 under Resolution WHA58.3.