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Top Republicans: Zika Funding On Hold Until September

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WASHINGTON (CBSMiami/ AP) — Top House Republicans say they plan on granting a portion of President Barack Obama's $1.9 billion request but may not do so until September.

Congressional Republicans have succeeded in forcing the administration to divert almost $600 million in unspent Ebola funds to fighting Zika. But the White House says that's only a temporary solution and that more money will be needed before then.

Top Republicans on the powerful Appropriations Committee say they're willing to provide more money once they can better determine what exactly is needed.

Related: CDC: Zika Definitely Causes Severe Birth Defects

Appropriations Committee Chairman Harold Rogers told reporters that "we're prepared to try to do a supplemental bill if it's needed" and that action is likely "before the end of the fiscal year" on Oct. 1st.

(TM and © Copyright 2016 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2016 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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