Reps. Katko, Schneider introduce bill to ensure government ready for COVID second wave

U.S. Reps. John Katko (R-NY) and Brad Schneider (D-IL) introduced legislation to ensure the administration and federal government are fully prepared to respond to the COVID-19 crisis and any future resurgences.

“With reports of COVID-19 spiking in most states, Central New York working families, frontline healthcare workers, and business owners are concerned that we will experience a ‘second wave.’ With our community still confronting the devastating impacts of COVID-19, we cannot, in good faith, move forward without learning from the missteps made by those overseeing the response effort. Central New Yorkers deserve assurance that the Administration and Federal Government are fully prepared to prevent and respond to any widespread increases in COVID-19 cases,” Katko said.

The COVID Preparedness, Response, and Effective Planning for Advanced Requirements by the Executive Branch (PREPARE) Act seeks to better prepare the government for a possible “second wave” of the virus. Specifically, it would require federal agencies to develop and submit to Congress comprehensive plans detailing how they would respond to a potential resurgence of COVID-19. The plan should include measurable goals, anticipated challenges, and how they will consult with Congress.

“This bipartisan bill would require federal agencies to develop and submit reports on how they would respond to a resurgence of COVID-19,” Katko said. “While I remain focused on delivering relief to those impacted by the pandemic, I believe equally critical is our preparation and preparedness to effectively combat a resurgence of cases.”