Cole Supports Zika Conference Report

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 2577, the conference report aimed at funding Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies, as well as the Zika Response and Preparedness Act. This legislation would fund continuing military infrastructure projects and programs, and furthermore would include funding for confronting the Zika virus through Fiscal Year 2017.

"It is critical that we do everything we can to eradicate the Zika virus as soon as possible, and I am pleased that we've reached an agreement on adequate funding," said Cole. "This bill provides more than $1.1 billion to combat the virus. It will develop vaccines and diagnostic tests, and provide local health departments the resources they need. In addition, the conference report reallocates over $700 million of the total spending from other, less critical programs. Beyond Zika, this conference report provides more money than the President asked for our military and veterans which is our fundamental responsibility.

"I am confident in our commitment to never fall short in funding the fight against Zika. The battle against this virus is not a partisan issue, it's a human issue, and I'm glad we are one step closer to ending this global threat."

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