May 17 2016

Graham Supports Zika Funding

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) made this statement today after voting to move forward with legislation which provides $1.1 billion in funding for American efforts to stop the spread of the Zika virus.

The vote, which brings debate to an end and puts the measure on the path to a final vote, passed the Senate 68-29.

“The threat posed by Zika is real and South Carolina, along with other southern states, are very much in the crosshairs of the virus. Time is of the essence and we must quickly deal with this threat.

“President Obama sent to Congress a Zika funding proposal which was overly broad and unaccountable. I opposed his plan.

“Instead of the Obama proposal, I signed onto a competing proposal which streamlines Zika funding and has built-in accountability provisions. I hope it will soon pass the Senate and eventually be signed into law by President Obama.”

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