No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act

No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act

This bill establishes that any convention or agreement on pandemic-related issues reached by the World Health Assembly (WHA) pursuant to a specified negotiating body shall be deemed to be a treaty requiring the advice and consent of the Senate.

Specifically, this bill applies to any international instrument negotiated by the intergovernmental negotiating body established by the WHA in December 2021 to strengthen pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response.

Bill 118 s 444, also known as the No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress. The bill aims to prevent the United States from entering into any pandemic preparedness treaty with the World Health Organization (WHO) without the approval of the Senate.

The bill highlights the importance of ensuring that any international agreements related to pandemic preparedness are thoroughly reviewed and approved by the Senate, as these agreements can have significant implications for the country's public health policies and resources.

Proponents of the bill argue that requiring Senate approval for pandemic preparedness treaties with the WHO will ensure transparency and accountability in the decision-making process, as well as protect the sovereignty of the United States in matters related to public health. Opponents of the bill may argue that it could potentially hinder the country's ability to respond quickly and effectively to global health crises, as obtaining Senate approval for international agreements can be a lengthy and complex process. Overall, Bill 118 s 444 seeks to establish a framework for congressional oversight and approval of pandemic preparedness treaties with the WHO, in order to safeguard the interests of the United States and its citizens in times of public health emergencies.