Huffman Votes on Funding to Advance Public Health, Take Climate Change Action

July 28, 2021

Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 4373 – Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2022 and H.R. 4346 – Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2022. These bills comprise the first round of fiscal year 2022 appropriations bills. 

“Today, House Democrats cast our first round of funding votes in what is one of the most direct actions we as congressmembers can take to stand up for what we value as a nation,” said Rep. Huffman. “Through these bills, we are rebuilding public health infrastructure, taking action on climate change, and advancing women’s rights – all of which will have a significant effect on the health and lives of people everywhere. This was a great first step, and I’m looking forward to passing additional appropriations bills that reflect the priorities of the people we represent.” 

Below are a number of other notable wins for American communities secured in these funding bills, including priorities led by Rep. Huffman:

  • Department of State, Foreign Operations: Prioritizes displaced and vulnerable populations, public health infrastructure, combatting climate change, and advancing women’s rights. In order to advance these vital priorities, this portion of the bill provides $62.24 billion, a 12% increase from last year. 
    • Includes over $3 billion to address the climate crisis and other environmental programs, including $1.6 billion for  the Green Climate Fund to assist millions of people at risk due to climate change and rapidly accelerate a transition to net-zero emissions in at least 20 partner countries.
    • Provides over $8.5 billion in collective funding for the USAID International disaster assistance, migration and refugee assistance, and the US Emergency Refugee & Migration Assistance Fund. 
    • Provides $830 Million for the UN Population Fund and global family planning efforts. 
  • Legislative Branch: Provides for protection of our democracy with funding to secure the U.S. Capitol, bolsters wellness support for Capitol Police who are still suffering from the January 6 domestic terrorist attack on the Capitol complex; and increases funding for paid internships to support more hard-working interns from middle class families and allows Dreamers to work in the Legislative Branch.