Lawrence Gostin

In order to leave the WHO, the U.S.

is supposed to give one year's notice.

It did that.

But it's also supposed to pay all its bills, which amount to $278 million.

The State Department told NPR that's not happening.

Lawrence Gostin is at Georgetown University and directs the WHO's Center on Global Health Law.

He says practically the U.S.

can leave, but it's unclear if the WHO will continue letting Washington participate in its meetings and share data about things like disease outbreaks.

The State Department says it doesn't want to participate.

Meanwhile, the head of the WHO is urging the U.S.

to reconsider pulling out.

Gabriela Emanuel, NPR News.