The U.S. House of Representatives unanimously advanced the Medical Preparedness Allowable Act, which aims to secure reliable grant funding for the stockpiling of medical kits and equipment for first responders.
The bill, authored by Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), would make funding available for first responders’ planning, training, and purchasing protective equipment in the event of another public health crisis, like the outbreak of Zika virus recently seen in Florida.
It also clarifies eligible uses for grant funds to ensure the public knows that vital countermeasures will be available when needed in the event of a potential public health scare.
“When the worst occurs, our first responders are there for us on the front lines,” Bilirakis said. “I consistently find myself in awe of these brave men and women, and the sacrifices they make on the public’s behalf. The least we can do is make sure they have the tools to do their jobs and keep us safe—and that’s what my bill seeks to accomplish.”
Bilirakis is a member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and is the current Vice Chair of the Committee on Veterans Affairs.
The bill now awaits a floor vote in the Senate.