Democrats kicked off the fall legislation session by blaming Republicans for Congress’ failure to agree on Zika funding.
Senate Democrats are blocking a $1.1 billion Zika funding package passed by the GOP-led House and Senate, accusing them of blocking funds to Planned Parenthood. A handful of Planned Parenthood clinics in Puerto Rico wouldn’t get new funding under the measure, and Democrats have said they won’t agree to a package unless it funds them.
The Republicans are following a “predictable pattern,” said Rep. Nita Lowey, D-N.Y. “First, oppose whatever the president requests. Second, take the request hostage to try to extract a ransom of ideology the American people don’t support. The consequences of the majority’s inaction have been severe.”
The Zika virus has infected more than 2,700 people in the U.S., including 624 pregnant women. The virus is known to cause a severe birth defect called microcephaly. Public health officials have said they’re quickly running out of funding to counteract the virus, which is spread through two types of mosquitoes and sexual contact.
Lawmakers in both parties have called for a Zika funding package, but neither party appears willing to give into the demands from the other side.
“The speaker and the Republican majority have been irresponsible,” said Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn.
