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Rep Anna Eshoo

Eshoo Introduces Legislation Directing Nation’s Top Health Agencies to Publicly Share Information on Testing Supply Inventory

May 15, 2020

WASHINGTON, D.C.Health Subcommittee Chairwoman Anna G. Eshoo (CA-18) today introduced the COVID-19 Testing Inventory Act, which directs the federal government to compile and publicly share real-time information about testing supply inventory and shortages. Companion legislation was introduced by Senators Tina Smith (D-MN), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).

"Testing is the most important tool we have to track and contain the spread of coronavirus, but public health officials and the American people still don't have a full picture of what tests are available and where," Eshoo said. "This legislation creates a centralized, publicly accessible inventory of our nation's testing capabilities so every American knows where they can get tested for COVID-19."

Since the COVID-19 outbreak was declared a national emergency, state departments of health, Indian Tribes, hospitals, health care providers, and first responders have lacked tests and supplies—including personal protective equipment (PPE), testing swabs, and reagents—needed to conduct adequate public health surveillance to contain and stop the spread of COVID-19.

The COVID-19 Testing Inventory Act requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in consultation with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Indian Health Service (IHS) to publicly provide information such as the supply of diagnostic tests available nationally, and distribution of tests by location.

You can read a summary of the bill HERE.

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