On July 16, U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) applauded the inclusion of millions in funding for the National Ebola Training and Education Center and the 10 regional Ebola and other special pathogen treatment centers within the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, which passed out of committee earlier this month. Cedars-Sinai Medical Center is one of the 10 regional centers.

Increased funding will support preparedness for emerging, infectious disease threats so the country is better prepared for future pandemics, Schiff said.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has been a painful reminder of how devastating infectious diseases can be, and how vital it is to invest in programs that help us respond to the next emerging threat,” Schiff said.

In March, Schiff led a bipartisan letter to support funding for global health programs and special pathogen treatment. It asked for increased funding for NETEC and RESPTC, which train facilities in the United States to handle special pathogens and infected patients. The FY21 LHHS Appropriations bill will include “at least $11 million” for the centers.

In addition to Ebola and COVID-19, these centers have infrastructure in place for quarantining and treating severe acute respiratory syndrome, Middle Eastern respiratory syndrome and other special pathogens.

The House of Representatives will likely vote on the FY21 Appropriations Bill this month.