Changes to CDC and NIH: Limiting Powers and Congressional Oversight
This new law introduces changes to the operations of public health agencies like the CDC and NIH. It limits the terms of their directors, alters their scope of activities, and requires Congressional approval for public health emergencies. The aim is to increase oversight of these institutions and their decisions.
Key points
CDC and NIH directors will be limited to a maximum of 12 years in office, leading to more frequent leadership changes.
The scope of CDC's activities will be narrowed, focusing more on communicable diseases and less on other health issues.
Public health emergency declarations will require Congressional approval, giving citizens more say in decisions affecting their lives.
Certain CDC offices, dealing with birth defects, chronic diseases, and environmental health, will be transferred to NIH, potentially impacting how these areas are managed.
Introduced
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_999
Sponsor: Sen. Schmitt, Eric [R-MO]
Process start date: 2025-03-12