House passes biohazard preparation bill, sends to Obama

The House on Monday evening passed legislation that would reauthorize several programs meant to help develop medical countermeasures and take other steps to prepare for public health emergencies and biohazards, including possible terrorist attacks.

Members approved H.R. 307, the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Reauthorization Act, in a 370-28 vote. All of of the "no" votes came from Republicans.

The House had approved nearly identical legislation in early February. Last week, the Senate approved it with what Rep. Joe Pitts (R-Pa.) called "minor changes."

House passage sends the bill to the White House for President Obama's signature.