H.R. 54, the WHO Withdrawal Act, would require the United States to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) and bars federal funds from being used to participate in WHO or any successor organization. It also repeals the 1948 act that established U.S. membership in WHO and authorized funding for that participation. The withdrawal would take effect on the date the bill is enacted. In short, if enacted, the United States would end its formal membership in WHO and stop funding its participation, effectively removing U.S. involvement in the organization and any future related entities. The bill was introduced in the House (January 3, 2025) by Rep. Biggs (and several listed co-sponsors) and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
Key Points
- 1Directs the President to withdraw the United States from the WHO Constitution.
- 2Prohibits any federal funds from being used to participate in WHO or any successor organization.
- 3Repeals the Act of June 14, 1948, which provided for U.S. membership in WHO and authorized related appropriations.
- 4Effective on the date of enactment; withdrawal and funding prohibition occur automatically once enacted.
- 5Introduced in the House by Rep. Biggs (with multiple co-sponsors) and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.