Source: Health Policy Institute of Ohio
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is pulling back $11.4 billion in funds allocated in response to the pandemic to state and community health departments, non-government organizations, and international recipients, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently confirmed (Source: “CDC is Pulling Back $11B in COVID Funding Sent to Health Departments Across the U.S.,” NBC News, March 25, 2025).
“The COVID-19 pandemic is over, and HHS will no longer waste billions of taxpayer dollars responding to a non-existent pandemic that Americans moved on from years ago,” HHS Director of Communications Andrew Nixon said in a statement.
Congress authorized the money for state public health programs as part of COVID relief bills. The funds were initially used for coronavirus testing and vaccination, as well as to address health disparities in high-risk populations.
But last year, the money was also allowed to be put toward other pressing public health concerns, including testing and surveillance of other respiratory viruses, an array of vaccines for children, or uninsured adults and preparedness for health emergencies.
A list of projects for the rescinded funds was not immediately available.