WASHINGTON (WOWO): U.S. Sens. Todd Young and Jeanne Shaheen have reintroduced bipartisan legislation aimed at strengthening global efforts to combat tuberculosis, one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases.

According to the senators, the End Tuberculosis Now Act would make the elimination of tuberculosis a priority for U.S. foreign assistance programs while improving international coordination on research, diagnosis, treatment and prevention efforts.

Supporters of the legislation say the measure would help expand access to modern diagnostic tools and treatments, encourage the development of new vaccines and therapies, and improve oversight of U.S.-funded tuberculosis programs.

Young said tuberculosis remains a major global health threat despite being preventable, treatable and curable.

“The End Tuberculosis Now Act will strengthen efforts to expand access to diagnosis and treatment, support the development of new tools and vaccines, and improve our ability to detect and respond to future infectious disease threats,” Young said in a statement.

Shaheen said investing in tuberculosis prevention and treatment abroad helps protect Americans by addressing infectious disease threats before they spread internationally.

According to the RESULTS advocacy group, the legislation would provide a framework for expanding the use of new tuberculosis-fighting technologies and treatments while supporting broader global health security efforts.

The bill would also align with ongoing U.S. global health initiatives by promoting targeted investments designed to reduce tuberculosis infections and strengthen preparedness for future disease outbreaks.

Young first introduced the End Tuberculosis Now Act in 2019 and has reintroduced it several times since. The legislation passed the Senate with bipartisan support in 2024 but did not become law.

The latest version of the bill now awaits consideration in Congress.