US Lawmakers Investigate Funds Diverted to China for Research on Pathogens of ‘Pandemic Potential’

The probe intends to uncover the use of Pentagon funds in enhancing any coronavirus, influenza, Ebola, or other dangerous pathogens.

Chairman of the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.), speaks during a press conference unveiling the results of the Committee’s investigation into the biolab discovered in Reedley, Calif., in Washington on Nov. 15, 2023. Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times

Republican lawmakers have launched an investigation into the issue of Defense Department taxpayer dollars sent to China for conducting risky biological research.

The recently passed 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) included a provision authored by Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.) directing the Defense Department OIG to determine the amount of funds the Pentagon may have provided to institutions in China for research on any pathogens with “pandemic potential.” The lawmakers announced on Thursday they were “launching an investigation” to this effect.