What is the National Biodefense Science Board?

Answer:

The Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act, signed into law on December 19, 2006, directed the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to establish the National Biodefense Science Board.  The Board provides expert advice and guidance to the Secretary on scientific, technical and other matters of special interest to the Department of Health and Human Services. Advisory topics include activities to prevent, prepare for, and respond to adverse health effects of public health emergencies resulting from current and future chemical, biological, nuclear, and radiological agents, whether naturally occurring, accidental, or deliberate.

The National Biodefense Science Board will terminate five years after the date on which it was established.  This 5-year period may be extended by the Secretary for one or more additional 5-year periods if the Secretary determines that an extension is appropriate.

Members who are not full-time Federal employees receive $200 per day plus per diem and travel expenses, in accordance with Federal law.  Members who are employees of the United States Government do not receive compensation for service on the Board.

Questions or comments may be phoned in by calling (202) 260-7000 or by submitting an e-mail to nbsbquestions@hhs.gov.

Learn More:

• National Biodefense Science Board
• NBSB Committee Membership

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