Sen. Ernst introduces bill to incentivize PPE, medical manufacturers to increase U.S. production

U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) has introduced a bill that encourages medical manufacturers to keep their manufacturing operations in the United States.

The Mobilize America to Manufacture Equipment Required for Independence from Communist Adversaries Act (Mobilize AMERICA Act) would provide an incentive for the private sector to increase domestic manufacturing of critical medical supplies. Specifically, the bill would establish a grant program to allow manufacturers to expand domestic production of drugs, vaccines, personal protective equipment, and other medical supplies. The idea is to ensure that the United States has the capacity to produce supplies necessary to combat public health emergencies without excessively relying on foreign countries.

“America must take bold action – in partnership with the private sector – to address these vulnerabilities in our medical supply chain and ensure we are prepared for future pandemics and public health emergencies,” Ernst said.

Earlier this year, Ernst co-sponsored similar legislation for the pharmaceutical and medical device industries — the Bring Entrepreneurial Advancements to Consumers Here In North America (BEAT CHINA) Act. This also seeks to incentivize pharmaceutical and medical device and supply manufacturers to relocate to the United States.

“As a leading provider of personal protective equipment and medical solutions for medical professionals, workers, and the public – and with 3M Forest City serving as a major distribution center for many of these products – 3M supports efforts to provide robust economic incentives for the manufacturing of healthcare supplies in the United States,” John Geraci, 3M Forest City Distribution Center Manager, said. “Accordingly, 3M strongly supports the Mobilize America Act and appreciates Senator Ernst’s development and introduction of this important and timely legislation.”