Global Health, Empowerment and Rights Act
Global Health, Empowerment and Rights Act
Plain Language Summary
# Global Health, Empowerment and Rights Act Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would change rules for how U.S. international development aid is distributed to foreign organizations. Specifically, it would prevent the U.S. government from blocking funding to foreign nonprofits simply because they provide certain medical services—like counseling or referrals—using their own money rather than U.S. funds. The bill also aims to level the playing field by saying foreign organizations shouldn't face stricter rules about advocacy activities than American nonprofits receiving the same U.S.
aid. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects foreign nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) that receive U.S. development assistance for global health initiatives. It would also indirectly affect the U.S. government agencies that distribute this aid, as they would have new parameters for eligibility decisions. **Current Status:** HR 764 is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by Congress. This means it's still in the early legislative stage and has not advanced to a full House or Senate vote.
CRS Official Summary
Global Health, Empowerment and Rights ActThis bill establishes that a foreign nongovernmental organization shall not be disqualified from receiving certain U.S. international development assistance solely because the organization provides medical services (including counseling and referral services) using non-U.S. government funds if the medical services do not violate the laws of the country in which they are being provided. Such foreign organizations shall not be subject to requirements relating to their use of non-U.S. funds for advocacy or lobbying activities other than those that apply to U.S. nongovernmental organizations receiving such assistance.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.