Lt. Governor Patrick Statement on Request for Quick Federal Action On Zika Virus Response



 

AUSTIN – Today, the Senate Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee, Charles Schwertner, the Senate Chair of the Finance Committee, Jane Nelson and I sent a letter to President Obama and the Texas Congressional delegation urging swift action and coordination between local, state and federal government to combat the Zika virus in Texas.

Texas is at greater risk for local transmission of the Zika virus because of our geography and recent devastating floods. The Senate’s Health and Human Services Committee has taken a proactive approach in reviewing the state’s preparation and response efforts to the Zika virus in Texas.

Texas is taking the necessary steps to combat this potentially devastating public health threat but we also need federal funds sooner rather than later, before it’s too late. I am calling upon the federal government to break the gridlock and act quickly to address this growing public health issue.

 

ATTACHMENT:

 (PDF) Letter to President Obama (116 KB, PDF)