Health Department Hopes Federal Dollars Will Help Build New State Health Lab

Some federal money might help Missouri build a new State Health Lab. The State Health Department has announced it has received two federal grants: $9.5-Million for private hospitals and more than $16-Million for public health facilities. The money is intended to go to efforts to protect Missourians during a public health emergency or terrorist attack. Pam Walker, Director of the Health Department’s Center for Emergency Response and Terrorism, says some of the public money is being set aside for the state health lab. Walker says most of the grant money will pay for equipment and staff inside the lab. She believes the actual building will be paid for with state building funds. Some estimates say a new lab will cost nearly $30-Million.