Measure advocates domestic PPE manufacturing

A trio of lawmakers have introduced a measure they said decreases dependence on foreign countries for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for healthcare providers.

Sens. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), and Mike Rounds (R-SD) said the U.S. MADE Act of 2020 lessens domestic dependence on countries such as China for manufacturing testing agents and PPE materials. Also, they say it enables the delivery of resources quickly and efficiently, while supporting the economy.

“One of our biggest takeaways from coronavirus is that we really need to reassess our medical supply chain,” Capito said. “It’s so important that we take every opportunity to buy American made products and support American business. We must do all we can to encourage economic development in our country and give our businesses the resources they need to make it through this difficult time, which is why this legislation is so critical. I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing the U.S. MADE Act of 2020.”

The Act proposes the following as priorities: testing swabs; surgical and respirator masks; face shields; surgical and isolation gowns; sanitizing and disinfecting wipes; gauzes and bandages; and privacy curtains, beds and bedding.

“Coronavirus has been a painful wake-up call that we are too reliant on nations like China for critical medical supplies,” Graham said. “Without changes, China remains set to dominate the PPE market for years to come. We have seen firsthand the problems not having a reliable source of PPE places on our health care system. It is my hope that we include this legislation in any additional Phase IV relief package. The Chinese grip on this critical supply chain must come to an end and this legislation accomplishes that goal.”