Sires Introduces Legislation to Support Global Health Research and Development

Statement

Last week, Congressman Albio Sires introduced H.R. 2241, the Global Health Innovation Act of 2015, to encourage the development of health products that are affordable, culturally appropriate, and easy to use in low-resource health systems. This bill will require the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to submit a report on the development and use of global health innovations at the Agency.

"Each year, millions of people in the developing world die of infectious diseases, malnutrition, and complications of pregnancy and childbirth. The Global Health Innovation Act supports a long-term program to develop much needed health technologies such as safe injection devices, rapid diagnostics for diseases, technologies for safe delivery, and other innovative health solutions," said Congressman Sires.

Through USAID, the federal government is addressing the need for global health technologies by facilitating public-private partnerships to develop affordable and appropriate health technologies. The critical research and development of global health technologies has facilitated the development of life-saving technologies saving countless lives across the globe.

"I am proud to support this legislation, which will help effectively address health needs around the world. As USAID continues to expand their research and development of these technologies, it is important that Congress continue to play its important role of oversight in ensuring the Agency's investments make clear progress towards its stated goals," said Sires.

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