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42 U.S.C. §§ 247d–247d–7b

22 sections in range

§247d. Public health emergencies

42 U.S.C. § 247d

(a)
Emergencies— If the Secretary determines, after consultation with such public health officials as may be necessary, that—
(1)
a disease or disorder presents a public health emergency; or
(2)
a public health emergency, including significant outbreaks of infectious diseases or bioterrorist attacks, otherwise exists,

the Secretary may take such action as may be appropriate to respond to the public health emergency, including making grants, providing awards for expenses, and entering into contracts and conducting and supporting investigations into the cause, treatment, or prevention of a disease or disorder as described in paragraphs (1) and (2). Any such determination of a public health emergency terminates upon the Secretary declaring that the emergency no longer exists, or upon the expiration of the 90-day period beginning on the date on which the determination is made by the Secretary, whichever occurs first. Determinations that terminate under the preceding sentence may be renewed by the Secretary (on the basis of the same or additional facts), and the preceding sentence applies to each such renewal. Not later than 48 hours after making a determination under this subsection of a public health emergency (including a renewal), the Secretary shall submit to the Congress written notification of the determination.

(b)
Public Health Emergency Fund—
(1)
In general— There is established in the Treasury a fund to be designated as the “Public Health Emergency Fund” to be made available to the Secretary without fiscal year limitation to carry out subsection (a) only if a public health emergency has been declared by the Secretary under such subsection or if the Secretary determines there is the significant potential for a public health emergency, to allow the Secretary to rapidly respond to the immediate needs resulting from such public health emergency or potential public health emergency. The Secretary shall plan for the expedited distribution of funds to appropriate agencies and entities. There is authorized to be appropriated to the Fund such sums as may be necessary.
(2)
Uses— The Secretary may use amounts in the Fund established under paragraph (1), to—
(A)
facilitate coordination between and among Federal, State, local, Tribal, and territorial entities and public and private health care entities that the Secretary determines may be affected by a public health emergency or potential public health emergency referred to in paragraph (1) (including communication of such entities with relevant international entities, as applicable);
(B)
make grants, provide for awards, enter into contracts, and conduct supportive investigations pertaining to a public health emergency or potential public health emergency, including further supporting programs under section 247d–3a, 247d–3b, or 247d–3c of this title;
(C)
facilitate and accelerate, as applicable, advanced research and development of security countermeasures (as defined in section 247d–6b of this title), qualified countermeasures (as defined in section 247d–6a of this title), or qualified pandemic or epidemic products (as defined in section 247d–6d of this title), that are applicable to the public health emergency or potential public health emergency under paragraph (1);
(D)
strengthen biosurveillance capabilities and laboratory capacity to identify, collect, and analyze information regarding such public health emergency or potential public health emergency, including the systems under section 247d–4 of this title;
(E)
support initial emergency operations and assets related to preparation and deployment of intermittent disaster response personnel under section 300hh–11 of this title and the Medical Reserve Corps under section 300hh–15 of this title;
(F)
support the initial deployment and distribution of contents of the Strategic National Stockpile, as appropriate; and
(G)
carry out other activities, as the Secretary determines applicable and appropriate.
(3)
Report— Not later than 90 days after the end of each fiscal year, the Secretary shall prepare and submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate and the Committee on Commerce and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives a report describing—
(A)
the expenditures made from the Public Health Emergency Fund in such fiscal year, including—
(i)
the amount obligated;
(ii)
the recipient or recipients of such obligated funds;
(iii)
the specific response activities such obligated funds will support; and
(iv)
the declared or potential public health emergency for which such funds were obligated; and
(B)
each public health emergency for which the expenditures were made and the activities undertaken with respect to each emergency which was conducted or supported by expenditures from the Fund.
(4)
Review— Not later than 2 years after June 24, 2019, the Secretary, in coordination with the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, shall conduct a review of the Fund under this section and provide recommendations to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives on policies to improve such Fund for the uses described in paragraph (2).
(5)
GAO report— Not later than 4 years after June 24, 2019, the Comptroller General of the United States shall—
(A)
conduct a review of the Fund under this section, including its uses and the resources available in the Fund; and
(B)
submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report on such review, including recommendations related to such review, as applicable.
(c)
Supplement not supplant— Funds appropriated under this section shall be used to rapidly respond to public health emergencies or potential public health emergencies and supplement and not supplant other Federal, State, and local public funds provided for activities under this chapter or funds otherwise provided for emergency response.
(d)
Data submittal and reporting deadlines— In any case in which the Secretary determines that, wholly or partially as a result of a public health emergency that has been determined pursuant to subsection (a), individuals or public or private entities are unable to comply with deadlines for the submission to the Secretary of data or reports required under any law administered by the Secretary, the Secretary may, notwithstanding any other provision of law, grant such extensions of such deadlines as the circumstances reasonably require, and may waive, wholly or partially, any sanctions otherwise applicable to such failure to comply. Before or promptly after granting such an extension or waiver, the Secretary shall notify the Congress of such action and publish in the Federal Register a notice of the extension or waiver.
(e)
Temporary reassignment of State and local personnel during a public health emergency—
(1)
Emergency reassignment of federally funded personnel— Notwithstanding any other provision of law, and subject to paragraph (2), upon request by the Governor of a State or a tribal organization or such Governor or tribal organization’s designee, the Secretary may authorize the requesting State or Indian tribe to temporarily reassign, for purposes of immediately addressing a public health emergency in the State or Indian tribe, State and local public health department or agency personnel funded in whole or in part through programs authorized under this chapter, as appropriate.
(2)
Activation of emergency reassignment—
(A)
Public health emergency— The Secretary may authorize a temporary reassignment of personnel under paragraph (1) only during the period of a public health emergency determined pursuant to subsection (a).
(B)
Contents of request— To seek authority for a temporary reassignment of personnel under paragraph (1), the Governor of a State or a tribal organization shall submit to the Secretary a request for such reassignment flexibility and shall include in the request each of the following:
(i)
An assurance that the public health emergency in the geographic area of the requesting State or Indian tribe cannot be adequately and appropriately addressed by the public health workforce otherwise available.
(ii)
An assurance that the public health emergency would be addressed more efficiently and effectively through the requested temporary reassignment of State and local personnel described in paragraph (1).
(iii)
An assurance that the requested temporary reassignment of personnel is consistent with any applicable All-Hazards Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan under section 247d–3a of this title.
(iv)
An identification of—
(I)
each Federal program from which personnel would be temporarily reassigned pursuant to the requested authority; and
(II)
the number of personnel who would be so reassigned from each such program.
(v)
Such other information and assurances upon which the Secretary and Governor of a State or tribal organization agree.
(C)
Consideration— In reviewing a request for temporary reassignment under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consider the degree to which the program or programs funded in whole or in part by programs authorized under this chapter would be adversely affected by the reassignment.
(D)
Termination and extension—
(i)
Termination— A State or Indian tribe’s temporary reassignment of personnel under paragraph (1) shall terminate upon the earlier of the following:
(I)
The Secretary’s determination that the public health emergency no longer exists.
(II)
Subject to clause (ii), the expiration of the 30-day period following the date on which the Secretary approved the State or Indian tribe’s request for such reassignment flexibility.
(ii)
Extension of reassignment flexibility— The Secretary may extend reassignment flexibility of personnel under paragraph (1) beyond the date otherwise applicable under clause (i)(II) if the public health emergency still exists as of such date, but only if—
(I)
the State or Indian tribe that submitted the initial request for a temporary reassignment of personnel submits a request for an extension of such temporary reassignment; and
(II)
the request for an extension contains the same information and assurances necessary for the approval of an initial request for such temporary reassignment pursuant to subparagraph (B).
(3)
Voluntary nature of temporary reassignment of State and local personnel—
(A)
In general— Unless otherwise provided under the law or regulation of the State or Indian tribe that receives authorization for temporary reassignment of personnel under paragraph (1), personnel eligible for reassignment pursuant to such authorization
(i)
shall have the opportunity to volunteer for temporary reassignment; and
(ii)
shall not be required to agree to a temporary reassignment.
(B)
Prohibition on conditioning Federal awards— The Secretary may not condition the award of a grant, contract, or cooperative agreement under this chapter on the requirement that a State or Indian tribe require that personnel eligible for reassignment pursuant to an authorization under paragraph (1) agree to such reassignment.
(4)
Notice to Congress— The Secretary shall give notice to the Congress in conjunction with the approval under this subsection of—
(A)
any initial request for temporary reassignment of personnel; and
(B)
any request for an extension of such temporary reassignment.
(5)
Guidance— The Secretary shall—
(A)
not later than 6 months after March 13, 2013, issue proposed guidance on the temporary reassignment of personnel under this subsection; and
(B)
after providing notice and a 60-day period for public comment, finalize such guidance.
(6)
Report to Congress— Not later than 4 years after March 13, 2013, the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct an independent evaluation, and submit to the appropriate committees of the Congress a report, on temporary reassignment under this subsection, including—
(A)
a description of how, and under what circumstances, such temporary reassignment has been used by States and Indian tribes;
(B)
an analysis of how such temporary reassignment has assisted States and Indian tribes in responding to public health emergencies;
(C)
an evaluation of how such temporary reassignment has improved operational efficiencies in responding to public health emergencies;
(D)
an analysis of the extent to which, if any, Federal programs from which personnel have been temporarily reassigned have been adversely affected by the reassignment; and
(E)
recommendations on how medical surge capacity could be improved in responding to public health emergencies and the impact of the reassignment flexibility under this section on such surge capacity.
(7)
Definitions— In this subsection—
(A)
the terms “Indian tribe” and “tribal organization” have the meanings given such terms in section 5304 of title 25; and
(B)
the term “State” includes, in addition to the entities listed in the definition of such term in section 201 of this title, the Freely Associated States.
(8)
Sunset— This subsection shall terminate on December 31, 2026.
(f)
Determination with respect to Paperwork Reduction Act waiver during a public health emergency—
(1)
Determination— If the Secretary determines, after consultation with such public health officials as may be necessary, that—
(A)
(i)
the criteria set forth for a public health emergency under paragraph (1) or (2) of subsection (a) has been met; or
(ii)
a disease or disorder, including a novel and emerging public health threat, is significantly likely to become a public health emergency; and
(B)
the circumstances of such public health emergency, or potential for such significantly likely public health emergency, including the specific preparation for and response to such public health emergency or threat, necessitate a waiver from the requirements of subchapter I of chapter 35 of title 44 (commonly referred to as the Paperwork Reduction Act),

then the requirements of such subchapter I with respect to voluntary collection of information shall not be applicable during the immediate investigation of, and response to, such public health emergency during the period of such public health emergency or the period of time necessary to determine if a disease or disorder, including a novel and emerging public health threat, will become a public health emergency as provided for in this paragraph. The requirements of such subchapter I with respect to voluntary collection of information shall not be applicable during the immediate postresponse review regarding such public health emergency if such immediate postresponse review does not exceed a reasonable length of time.

(2)
Transparency— If the Secretary determines that a waiver is necessary under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall promptly post on the Internet website of the Department of Health and Human Services a brief justification for such waiver, the anticipated period of time such waiver will be in effect, and the agencies and offices within the Department of Health and Human Services to which such waiver shall apply, and update such information posted on the Internet website of the Department of Health and Human Services, as applicable.
(3)
Effectiveness of waiver— Any waiver under this subsection shall take effect on the date on which the Secretary posts information on the Internet website as provided for in this subsection.
(4)
Termination of waiver— Upon determining that the circumstances necessitating a waiver under paragraph (1) no longer exist, the Secretary shall promptly update the Internet website of the Department of Health and Human Services to reflect the termination of such waiver.
(5)
Limitations—
(A)
Period of waiver— The period of a waiver under paragraph (1) shall not exceed the period of time for the related public health emergency, including a public health emergency declared pursuant to subsection (a), and any immediate postresponse review regarding the public health emergency consistent with the requirements of this subsection.
(B)
Subsequent compliance— An initiative subject to a waiver under paragraph (1) that is ongoing after the date on which the waiver expires, shall be subject to the requirements of subchapter I of chapter 35 of title 44 and the Secretary shall ensure that compliance with such requirements occurs in as timely a manner as possible based on the applicable circumstances, but not to exceed 30 calendar days after the expiration of the applicable waiver.
(g)
Certain appointments to support public health emergency responses—
(1)
In general— In order to support the initial response to a public health emergency declared by the Secretary under this section, the Secretary may, subject to paragraph (2) and without regard to sections 3309 through 3318 of title 5, appoint individuals directly to positions in the Department of Health and Human Services for which the Secretary has provided public notice in order to—
(A)
address a critical hiring need directly related to responding to a public health emergency declared by the Secretary under this section; or
(B)
address a severe shortage of candidates that impacts the operational capacity of the Department of Health and Human Services to respond in the event of a public health emergency declared by the Secretary under this section.
(2)
Number of appointments— Each fiscal year in which the Secretary makes a determination of a public health emergency under subsection (a) (not including a renewal), the Secretary may directly appoint not more than—
(A)
400 individuals under paragraph (1)(A); and
(B)
100 individuals under paragraph (1)(B).
(3)
Compensation— The annual rate of basic pay of an individual appointed under this subsection shall be determined in accordance with chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of title 5.
(4)
Reporting— The Secretary shall establish and maintain records regarding the use of the authority under this subsection, including—
(A)
the number of positions filled through such authority;
(B)
the types of appointments of such positions;
(C)
the titles, occupational series, and grades of such positions;
(D)
the number of positions publicly noticed to be filled under such authority;
(E)
the number of qualified applicants who apply for such positions;
(F)
the qualification criteria for such positions; and
(G)
the demographic information of individuals appointed to such positions.
(5)
Notification to Congress— In the event the Secretary, within a single fiscal year, directly appoints more than 50 percent of the individuals allowable under either subparagraph (A) or (B) of paragraph (2), the Secretary shall, not later than 15 days after the date of such action, notify the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives. Such notification shall, in a manner that protects personal privacy, to the extent required by applicable Federal and State privacy law, at a minimum, include—
(A)
information on each such appointment within such fiscal year;
(B)
a description of how each such position relates to the requirements of subparagraph (A) or (B) of paragraph (1); and
(C)
the additional number of personnel, if any, the Secretary anticipates to be necessary to adequately support a response to a public health emergency declared under this section using the authorities described in paragraph (1) within such fiscal year.
(6)
Reports to Congress— Not later than September 30, 2023, and annually thereafter for each fiscal year in which the authority under this subsection is used, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report describing the total number of appointments filled under this subsection within the fiscal year and a description of how the positions relate to the requirements of subparagraph (A) or (B) of paragraph (1).
(7)
Sunset— The authority under this subsection shall expire on September 30, 2028.
(h)
Stockpile depletion reporting— The Secretary shall, not later than 30 days after the deployment of contents of the Strategic National Stockpile under section 247d–6b(a) of this title to respond to a public health emergency declared by the Secretary under this section or an emergency or major disaster declared by the President under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act [42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.], and every 30 days thereafter until the expiration or termination of such public health emergency, emergency, or major disaster, submit a report to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives on—
(1)
the deployment of the contents of the stockpile in response to State, local, and Tribal requests;
(2)
the amount of such products that remain within the stockpile following such deployment; and
(3)
plans to replenish such products, as appropriate, including related timeframes and any barriers or limitations to replenishment.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319, as added Pub. L. 106–505, title I, § 102, Nov. 13, 2000, 114 Stat. 2315; amended Pub. L. 107–188, title I, §§ 141, 144(a), 158, June 12, 2002, 116 Stat. 626, 630, 633; Pub. L. 113–5, title II, § 201, Mar. 13, 2013, 127 Stat. 170; Pub. L. 114–255, div. A, title III, § 3087, Dec. 13, 2016, 130 Stat. 1147; Pub. L. 116–22, title II, § 206, title VII, § 701(c), June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 925, 961; Pub. L. 117–328, div. FF, title II, §§ 2103(a), 2223(a), 2407, Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 5711, 5747, 5788; Pub. L. 118–15, div. B, title III, § 2332, Sept. 30, 2023, 137 Stat. 96; Pub. L. 118–22, div. B, title II, § 203(a), Nov. 17, 2023, 137 Stat. 120; Pub. L. 118–35, div. B, title I, § 103(a), Jan. 19, 2024, 138 Stat. 5; Pub. L. 118–42, div. G, title I, § 103(a), Mar. 9, 2024, 138 Stat. 398; Pub. L. 118–158, div. C, title I, § 3103(a), Dec. 21, 2024, 138 Stat. 1763; Pub. L. 119–4, div. B, title I, § 2103(a), Mar. 15, 2025, 139 Stat. 41; Pub. L. 119–37, div. F, title I, § 6103(a), Nov. 12, 2025, 139 Stat. 630; Pub. L. 119–75, div. J, title IV, § 6403(a), Feb. 3, 2026, 140 Stat. 688.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, referred to in subsec. (h), is Pub. L. 93–288, May 22, 1974, 88 Stat. 143, which is classified principally to chapter 68 (§ 5121 et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 5121 of this title and Tables.

Prior Provisions

A prior section 247d, act July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319, as added Pub. L. 98–49, July 13, 1983, 97 Stat. 245; amended Pub. L. 100–607, title II, § 256(a), Nov. 4, 1988, 102 Stat. 3110; Pub. L. 102–321, title I, § 163(b)(2), July 10, 1992, 106 Stat. 376; Pub. L. 102–531, title III, § 312(d)(2), Oct. 27, 1992, 106 Stat. 3504, authorized the Secretary to take appropriate action relating to public health emergencies, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 106–505, title I, § 102, Nov. 13, 2000, 114 Stat. 2315.

Another prior section 247d, act July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319, formerly § 310, as added Sept. 25, 1962, Pub. L. 87–692, 76 Stat. 592, and amended and renumbered, which related to migrant health centers, was renumbered section 329 of act July 1, 1944, by Pub. L. 95–626, title I, § 102(a), Nov. 10, 1978, 92 Stat. 3551, and transferred to section 254b of this title, prior to being omitted in the general amendment of subpart I (§ 254b et seq.) of part D of this subchapter by Pub. L. 104–299, § 2.

Amendments

2026—Subsec. (e)(8). Pub. L. 119–75 substituted “December 31, 2026” for “January 30, 2026”.

2025—Subsec. (e)(8). Pub. L. 119–37 substituted “January 30, 2026” for “September 30, 2025”.

Pub. L. 119–4 substituted “September 30, 2025” for “March 31, 2025”.

2024—Subsec. (e)(8). Pub. L. 118–158 substituted “March 31, 2025” for “December 31, 2024”.

Pub. L. 118–42 substituted “December 31, 2024” for “March 8, 2024”.

Pub. L. 118–35 substituted “March 8, 2024” for “January 19, 2024”.

2023—Subsec. (e)(8). Pub. L. 118–22 substituted “January 19, 2024” for “November 17, 2023”.

Pub. L. 118–15 substituted “November 17, 2023” for “September 30, 2023”.

2022—Subsec. (b)(2)(F), (G). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2103(a)(1), added subpar. (F) and redesignated former subpar. (F) as (G).

Subsec. (b)(3)(A). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2103(a)(2), amended subpar. (A) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (A) read as follows: “the expenditures made from the Public Health Emergency Fund in such fiscal year; and”.

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2223(a), added subsec. (g).

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2407, added subsec. (h).

2019—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 116–22, § 206(1)(A), substituted “under such subsection or if the Secretary determines there is the significant potential for a public health emergency, to allow the Secretary to rapidly respond to the immediate needs resulting from such public health emergency or potential public health emergency. The Secretary shall plan for the expedited distribution of funds to appropriate agencies and entities.” for “under such subsection.”

Subsec. (b)(2), (3). Pub. L. 116–22, § 206(1)(B), (C), added par. (2) and redesignated former par. (2) as (3).

Subsec. (b)(4), (5). Pub. L. 116–22, § 206(1)(D), added pars. (4) and (5).

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 116–22, § 206(2), inserted “rapidly respond to public health emergencies or potential public health emergencies and” after “used to” and substituted “activities under this chapter or funds otherwise provided for emergency response.” for “activities under this section.”

Subsec. (e)(8). Pub. L. 116–22, § 701(c), substituted “2023” for “2018”.

2016—Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 114–255 added subsec. (f).

2013—Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 113–5 added subsec. (e).

2002—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 107–188, § 158, substituted “grants, providing awards for expenses, and” for “grants and” in concluding provisions.

Pub. L. 107–188, § 144(a), inserted at end of concluding provisions “Any such determination of a public health emergency terminates upon the Secretary declaring that the emergency no longer exists, or upon the expiration of the 90-day period beginning on the date on which the determination is made by the Secretary, whichever occurs first. Determinations that terminate under the preceding sentence may be renewed by the Secretary (on the basis of the same or additional facts), and the preceding sentence applies to each such renewal. Not later than 48 hours after making a determination under this subsection of a public health emergency (including a renewal), the Secretary shall submit to the Congress written notification of the determination.”

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 107–188, § 141, added subsec. (d).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name

Committee on Commerce of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Energy and Commerce of House of Representatives, and jurisdiction over matters relating to securities and exchanges and insurance generally transferred to Committee on Financial Services of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 5, One Hundred Seventh Congress, Jan. 3, 2001.

Effective Date of 2002 Amendment

Pub. L. 107–188, title I, § 144(b), June 12, 2002, 116 Stat. 630, provided that: “The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] applies to any public health emergency under section 319(a) of the Public Health Service Act [42 U.S.C. 247d(a)], including any such emergency that was in effect as of the day before the date of the enactment of this Act [June 12, 2002]. In the case of such an emergency that was in effect as of such day, the 90-day period described in such section with respect to the termination of the emergency is deemed to begin on such date of enactment.”

Consideration of Unique Challenges in Noncontiguous States and Territories

Pub. L. 117–328, div. FF, title II, § 2115, Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 5726, provided that: “During any public health emergency declared under section 319 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 247d), the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall conduct quarterly meetings or consultations, as applicable or appropriate, with noncontiguous States and territories with regard to addressing unique public health challenges in such States and territories associated with such public health emergency.”

Funding for COVID–19 Vaccine Activities at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Pub. L. 117–2, title II, § 2301, Mar. 11, 2021, 135 Stat. 37, provided that: In General.—In addition to amounts otherwise available, there is appropriated to the Secretary of Health and Human Services (in this subtitle subtitle D (§§ 2301–2305) of title II of [Pub. L. 117–2, see Tables for classification] referred to as the ‘Secretary’) for fiscal year 2021, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, $7,500,000,000, to remain available until expended, to carry out activities to plan, prepare for, promote, distribute, administer, monitor, and track COVID–19 vaccines. Use of Funds.—The Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and in consultation with other agencies, as applicable, shall, in conducting activities referred to in subsection (a)— conduct activities to enhance, expand, and improve nationwide COVID–19 vaccine distribution and administration, including activities related to distribution of ancillary medical products and supplies related to vaccines; and provide technical assistance, guidance, and support to, and award grants or cooperative agreements to, State, local, Tribal, and territorial public health departments for enhancement of COVID–19 vaccine distribution and administration capabilities, including— the distribution and administration of vaccines licensed under section 351 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 262) or authorized under section 564 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 360bbb–3) and ancillary medical products and supplies related to vaccines; the establishment and expansion, including staffing support, of community vaccination centers, particularly in underserved areas; the deployment of mobile vaccination units, particularly in underserved areas; information technology, standards-based data, and reporting enhancements, including improvements necessary to support standards-based sharing of data related to vaccine distribution and vaccinations and systems that enhance vaccine safety, effectiveness, and uptake, particularly among underserved populations; facilities enhancements; communication with the public regarding when, where, and how to receive COVID–19 vaccines; and transportation of individuals to facilitate vaccinations, including at community vaccination centers and mobile vaccination units, particularly for underserved populations.Supplemental Funding for State Vaccination Grants.— Definitions.—In this subsection: Base formula.—The term ‘base formula’ means the allocation formula that applied to the Public Health Emergency Preparedness cooperative agreement in fiscal year 2020. Alternative allocation.—The term ‘alternative allocation’ means an allocation to each State, territory, or locality calculated using the percentage derived from the allocation received by such State, territory, or locality of the aggregate amount of fiscal year 2020 Public Health Emergency Preparedness cooperative agreement awards under section 319C–1 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 247d–3a).Supplemental funding.— In general.—Not later than 21 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Mar. 11, 2021], the Secretary shall, out of amounts described in subsection (a), provide supplemental funding to any State, locality, or territory that received less of the amounts that were appropriated under title III of division M of Public Law 116–260 [see Tables for classification] for vaccination grants to be issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention than such State, locality, or territory would have received had such amounts been allocated using the alternative allocation. Amount.—The amount of supplemental funding provided under this subsection shall be equal to the difference between— the amount the State, locality, or territory received, or would receive, under the base formula; and the amount the State, locality, or territory would receive under the alternative allocation.”

Funding for COVID–19 Testing, Contact Tracing, and Mitigation Activities

Pub. L. 117–2, title II, § 2401, Mar. 11, 2021, 135 Stat. 40, provided that: In General.—In addition to amounts otherwise available, there is appropriated to the Secretary of Health and Human Services (in this subtitle subtitle E (§§ 2401–2404) of title II of [Pub. L. 117–2, see Tables for classification] referred to as the ‘Secretary’) for fiscal year 2021, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, $47,800,000,000, to remain available until expended, to carry out activities to detect, diagnose, trace, and monitor SARS–CoV–2 and COVID–19 infections and related strategies to mitigate the spread of COVID–19. Use of Funds.—From amounts appropriated by subsection (a), the Secretary shall— implement a national, evidence-based strategy for testing, contact tracing, surveillance, and mitigation with respect to SARS–CoV–2 and COVID–19, including through activities authorized under section 319(a) of the Public Health Service Act [42 U.S.C. 247d(a)]; provide technical assistance, guidance, and support, and award grants or cooperative agreements to State, local, and territorial public health departments for activities to detect, diagnose, trace, and monitor SARS–CoV–2 and COVID–19 infections and related strategies and activities to mitigate the spread of COVID–19; support the development, manufacturing, procurement, distribution, and administration of tests to detect or diagnose SARS–CoV–2 and COVID–19, including through— support for the development, manufacture, procurement, and distribution of supplies necessary for administering tests, such as personal protective equipment; and support for the acquisition, construction, alteration, or renovation of non-federally owned facilities for the production of diagnostics and ancillary medical products and supplies where the Secretary determines that such an investment is necessary to ensure the production of sufficient amounts of such supplies; establish and expand Federal, State, local, and territorial testing and contact tracing capabilities, including— through investments in laboratory capacity, such as— academic and research laboratories, or other laboratories that could be used for processing of COVID–19 testing; community-based testing sites and community-based organizations; or mobile health units, particularly in medically underserved areas; and with respect to quarantine and isolation of contacts; enhance information technology, data modernization, and reporting, including improvements necessary to support sharing of data related to public health capabilities; award grants to, or enter into cooperative agreements or contracts with, State, local, and territorial public health departments to establish, expand, and sustain a public health workforce; and to cover administrative and program support costs necessary to conduct activities related to subparagraph (a).”

Importance of the Blood Supply

Pub. L. 116–136, div. A, title III, § 3226, Mar. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 383, provided that: In General.—The Secretary of Health and Human Services (referred to in this section as the ‘Secretary’) shall carry out a national campaign to improve awareness of, and support outreach to the public and health care providers about the importance and safety of blood donation and the need for donations for the blood supply during the public health emergency declared by the Secretary under section 319 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 247d) with respect to COVID–19. Awareness Campaign.—In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary may enter into contracts with one or more public or private nonprofit entities, to establish a national blood donation awareness campaign that may include television, radio, internet, and newspaper public service announcements, and other activities to provide for public and professional awareness and education. Consultation.—In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary shall consult with the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, the Assistant Secretary for Health, the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Director of the National Institutes of Health, and the heads of other relevant Federal agencies, and relevant accrediting bodies and representative organizations. Report to Congress.—Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act [Mar. 27, 2020], the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives, a report that shall include— a description of the activities carried out under subsection (a); a description of trends in blood supply donations; and an evaluation of the impact of the public awareness campaign, including any geographic or population variations.”

Reporting by Laboratories of Results of Tests To Detect SARS–CoV–2 or To Diagnose COVID–19

Pub. L. 116–136, div. B, title VIII, § 18115(a)–(c), Mar. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 574, provided that: In General.—Every laboratory that performs or analyzes a test that is intended to detect SARS–CoV–2 or to diagnose a possible case of COVID–19 shall report the results from each such test, to the Secretary of Health and Human Services in such form and manner, and at such timing and frequency, as the Secretary may prescribe until the end of the Secretary’s Public Health Emergency declaration with respect to COVID–19 or any extension of such declaration. Laboratories Covered.—The Secretary may prescribe which laboratories must submit reports pursuant to this section. Implementation.—The Secretary may make prescriptions under this section by regulation, including by interim final rule, or by guidance, and may issue such regulations or guidance without regard to the procedures otherwise required by section 553 of title 5, United States Code.”

Executive Documents

Executive Order No. 13987

Ex. Ord. No. 13987, Jan. 20, 2021, 86 F.R. 7019, organizing and mobilizing the United States government to provide a unified and effective response to combat COVID–19 and to provide United States leadership on global health and security, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 14148, § 2(c), Jan. 20, 2025, 90 F.R. 8237, and Ex. Ord. No. 14155, § 2(b), Jan. 20, 2025, 90 F.R. 8361. Positions of COVID–19 Response Coordinator and Deputy Coordinator of the COVID–19 Response, as established by section 2 of Ex. Ord. No. 13987 terminated, and responsibilities and duties transferred to Director of the Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy, by Ex. Ord. No. 14122, § 3, Apr. 12, 2024, 89 F.R. 27355, set out in a note under section 300hh–3 of this title.

Executive Order No. 13991

Ex. Ord. No. 13991, Jan. 20, 2021, 86 F.R. 7045, which required compliance with CDC guidelines with respect to wearing masks, maintaining physical distance, and other public health measures by Federal employees and contractors and all persons in Federal buildings or on Federal lands, and HHS promotion of public health best practices identified by the CDC, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 14122, § 2, Apr. 12, 2024, 89 F.R. 27355, set out in a note under section 300hh–3 of this title.

Executive Order No. 13994

Ex. Ord. No. 13994, Jan. 21, 2021, 86 F.R. 7189, which related to ensuring a data-driven response to COVID–19 and future high-consequence public health threats, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 14236, § 2(a), Mar. 14, 2025, 90 F.R. 13037.

Executive Order No. 13995

Ex. Ord. No. 13995, Jan. 21, 2021, 86 F.R. 7193, which related to ensuring an equitable pandemic response and recovery, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 14148, § 2(i), Jan. 20, 2025, 90 F.R. 8237.

Executive Order No. 13996

Ex. Ord. No. 13996, Jan. 21, 2021, 86 F.R. 7197, establishing the COVID–19Pandemic Testing Board and ensuring a sustainable public health workforce for COVID–19 and other biological threats, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 14148 § 2(j), Jan. 20, 2025, 90 F.R. 8237.

Executive Order No. 13997

Ex. Ord. No. 13997, Jan. 21, 2021, 86 F.R. 7201, improving and expanding access to care and treatments for COVID–19, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 14148, § 2(k), Jan. 20, 2025, 90 F.R. 8237.

Executive Order No. 13998

Ex. Ord. No. 13998, Jan. 21, 2021, 86 F.R. 7205, which related to promoting COVID–19 safety in domestic and international travel, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 14122, § 2, Apr. 12, 2024, 89 F.R. 27355, set out in a note under section 300hh–3 of this title.

Executive Order No. 13999

Ex. Ord. No. 13999, Jan. 21, 2021, 86 F.R. 7211, ensuring the health and safety of workers during the COVID–19 pandemic, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 14148, § 2(l), Jan. 20, 2025, 90 F.R. 8238.

Executive Order No. 14000

Ex. Ord. No. 14000, Jan. 21, 2021, 86 F.R. 7215, supporting the reopening and continuing operation of schools and early childhood education providers, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 14148, § 2(m), Jan. 20, 2025, 90 F.R. 8238.

Addressing the Long-Term Effects of COVID–19

Memorandum of President of the United States, Apr. 5, 2022, 87 F.R. 20995, provided:

Memorandum for the Heads of Executive Departments and Agencies

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1. Policy. My Administration has made combating the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID–19) pandemic, and guiding the Nation through the worst public health crisis in more than a century, our top priority. When I came into office, COVID–19 was wreaking havoc on our country—closing our businesses, keeping our kids out of school, and forcing us into isolation. Today, America has the tools to protect against COVID–19 and to dramatically decrease its risks. We move towards a future in which COVID–19 does not disrupt our daily lives and is something we prevent, protect against, and treat.

As we chart the path forward, we remember the more than 950,000 people in the United States lost to COVID–19. They were beloved parents, grandparents, children, siblings, spouses, neighbors, and friends. More than 200,000 children in the United States have lost a parent or caregiver to the disease. Each soul is irreplaceable, and the families and communities left behind are still reeling from profound loss. Many families and communities have already received support from Federal programs that help with the loss they have experienced. As we move forward, we commit to ensuring that families and communities can access these support programs and connect to resources they may need to help with their healing, health, and well-being.

At the same time, many of our family members, neighbors, and friends continue to experience negative long-term effects of COVID–19. Many individuals report debilitating, long-lasting effects of having been infected with COVID–19, often called “long COVID.” These symptoms can happen to anyone who has had COVID–19—including individuals across ages, races, genders, and ethnicities; individuals with or without disabilities; individuals with or without underlying health conditions; and individuals whether or not they had initial symptoms. Individuals experiencing long COVID report experiencing new or recurrent symptoms, which can include anxiety and depression, fatigue, shortness of breath, difficulty concentrating, heart palpitations, disordered sleep, chest and joint pain, headaches, and other symptoms. These symptoms can persist long after the acute COVID–19 infection has resolved. Even young people and otherwise healthy people have reported long COVID symptoms that last for many months. These symptoms may be affecting individuals’ ability to work, conduct daily activities, engage in educational activities, and participate in their communities. Our world-class research and public health organizations have begun the difficult work of understanding these new conditions, their causes, and potential prevention and treatment options. Our health care and support programs are working to help meet the needs of individuals experiencing the lasting effects of COVID–19. To organize the Federal Government’s response, executive departments and agencies (agencies) must work together to use the expertise, resources, and benefit programs of the Federal Government to ensure that we are accelerating scientific progress and providing individuals with the support and services they need.

In addition, the American public is grappling with a mental health crisis exacerbated by the pandemic. Too many have felt the effects of social isolation, sickness, economic insecurity, increased caregiver burdens, and grief. My Administration has made significant investments in mental health as well as substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery support for the American public, including by expanding access to community-based behavioral health services. We are committed to advancing these behavioral health efforts in order to better identify the effects of the pandemic on mental health, substance use, and well-being, and to take steps to address these effects for the people we serve.

Our Nation can continue to protect the public—and spare countless families from the deepest pain imaginable—if everybody does their part. Today, we have numerous tools to protect ourselves and our loved ones from COVID–19—from vaccines to tests, treatments, masks, and more. My Administration recognizes the toll of this pandemic on the American public and commits to redoubling our efforts to support the American people in addressing the long-term effects of COVID–19 on their lives and on society.

Sec. 2. Organizing the Government-Wide Response to the Long-Term Effects of COVID–19. (a) The Secretary of Health and Human Services (Secretary) shall coordinate the Government-wide response to the long-term effects of COVID–19. My Administration will harness the full potential of the Federal Government, in coordination with public- and private-sector partners, to mount a full and effective response. The Secretary shall report on the coordination efforts to the Coordinator of the COVID–19 Response and Counselor to the President and to the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy.

(b) The heads of agencies shall assist and provide information to the Secretary, consistent with applicable law, as may be necessary to carry out the Secretary’s duties described in subsection (a) of this section.

(c) In performing the duties described in subsection (a) of this section, the Secretary shall seek information from relevant nongovernmental experts, organizations, and stakeholders, including individuals affected directly by the long-term effects of COVID–19. The Secretary shall consider using all available legal authorities, as appropriate and consistent with applicable law, to assist in gathering relevant information, including a waiver under 42 U.S.C. 247d(f).

Sec. 3. Report on the Long-Term Effects of COVID–19. The Secretary, supported within the Department of Health and Human Services by the Assistant Secretary for Health and the Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, shall publish a public report within 120 days of the date of this memorandum [Apr. 5, 2022] outlining services and mechanisms of support across agencies to assist the American public in the face of the far-reaching and long-term effects of COVID–19. The report shall outline Federal Government services to support individuals experiencing long COVID, individuals and families experiencing a loss due to COVID–19, and all those grappling with mental health and substance use issues in the wake of this pandemic. The report shall also specifically address the long-term effects of COVID–19 on underserved communities and efforts to address disparities in availability and adoption of services and support for such communities.

Sec. 4. National Research Action Plan on Long COVID. (a) Coordinated efforts across the public and private sectors are needed to advance progress in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and provision of services for individuals experiencing long COVID. The Secretary, supported by the Assistant Secretary for Health and in collaboration with the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Labor, the Secretary of Energy, and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, shall coordinate a Government-wide effort to develop the first-ever interagency national research agenda on long COVID, to be reflected in a National Research Action Plan. The National Research Action Plan will build on ongoing efforts across the Federal Government, including the landmark RECOVER Initiative implemented by the National Institutes of Health. The Secretary shall release the jointly developed National Research Action Plan within 120 days of the date of this memorandum.

(b) The National Research Action Plan shall build upon existing research efforts and include strategies to:

(i) help measure and characterize long COVID in both children and adults, including with respect to its frequency, severity, duration, risk factors, and trends over time;

(ii) support the development of estimates on prevalence and incidence of long COVID disaggregated by demographic groups and symptoms;

(iii) better understand the epidemiology, course of illness, risk factors, and vaccine effectiveness in prevention of long COVID;

(iv) advance our understanding of the health and socioeconomic burdens on individuals affected by long COVID, including among different race and ethnicity groups, pregnant people, and those with underlying disabilities;

(v) foster development of new treatments and care models for long COVID based on a better understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms of the SARS–CoV–2 virus;

(vi) inform decisions related to high-quality support, services, and interventions for long COVID;

(vii) improve data-sharing between agencies and academic and industry researchers about long COVID, to the extent permitted by law; and

(viii) specifically account for the pandemic’s effect on underserved communities and rural populations.

Sec. 5. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this memorandum shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b) This memorandum shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(c) This memorandum is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

(d) The Secretary is authorized and directed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register.

§247d–1. Vaccine tracking and distribution

42 U.S.C. § 247d–1

(a)
Tracking— The Secretary, together with relevant manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors as may agree to cooperate, may track the initial distribution of federally purchased influenza vaccine in an influenza pandemic, or other federally purchased vaccine to address another pandemic. Such tracking information shall be used to inform Federal, State, local, and tribal decision makers during an influenza pandemic or other pandemic.
(b)
Distribution— The Secretary shall promote communication between State, local, and tribal public health officials and such manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors as agree to participate, regarding the effective distribution of seasonal influenza vaccine. Such communication shall include estimates of high priority populations, as determined by the Secretary, in State, local, and tribal jurisdictions in order to inform Federal, State, local, and tribal decision makers during vaccine shortages and supply disruptions.
(c)
Confidentiality— The information submitted to the Secretary or its contractors, if any, under this section or under any other section of this chapter related to vaccine distribution information shall remain confidential in accordance with the exception from the public disclosure of trade secrets, commercial or financial information, and information obtained from an individual that is privileged and confidential, as provided for in section 552(b)(4) of title 5, and subject to the penalties and exceptions under sections 1832 and 1833 of title 18 relating to the protection and theft of trade secrets, and subject to privacy protections that are consistent with the regulations promulgated under section 264(c) of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. None of such information provided by a manufacturer, wholesaler, or distributor shall be disclosed without its consent to another manufacturer, wholesaler, or distributor, or shall be used in any manner to give a manufacturer, wholesaler, or distributor a proprietary advantage.
(d)
Guidelines— The Secretary, in order to maintain the confidentiality of relevant information and ensure that none of the information contained in the systems involved may be used to provide proprietary advantage within the vaccine market, while allowing State, local, and tribal health officials access to such information to maximize the delivery and availability of vaccines to high priority populations, during times of influenza pandemics or other pandemics, vaccine shortages, and supply disruptions, in consultation with manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers and State, local, and tribal health departments, shall develop guidelines for subsections (a) and (b).
(e)
Authorization of appropriations— There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section, $30,800,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2023.
(f)
Report to Congress— As part of the National Health Security Strategy described in section 300hh–1 of this title, the Secretary shall provide an update on the implementation of subsections (a) through (d).
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319A, as added Pub. L. 106–505, title I, § 102, Nov. 13, 2000, 114 Stat. 2316; amended Pub. L. 107–188, title I, § 111(1), June 12, 2002, 116 Stat. 611; Pub. L. 109–417, title II, § 204(a), Dec. 19, 2006, 120 Stat. 2850; Pub. L. 113–5, title II, § 202(b), Mar. 13, 2013, 127 Stat. 175; Pub. L. 116–22, title VII, § 701(b), June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 961; Pub. L. 117–328, div. FF, title II, § 2232, Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 5754.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 264(c) of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, referred to in subsec. (c), is section 264(c) of Pub. L. 104–191, which is set out as a note under section 1320d–2 of this title.

Amendments

2022—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2232(1), inserted “, or other federally purchased vaccine to address another pandemic” after “in an influenza pandemic” and “or other pandemic” after “during an influenza pandemic”.

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2232(2), inserted “or other pandemics” after “influenza pandemics”.

2019—Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 116–22 substituted “2019 through 2023” for “2014 through 2018”.

2013—Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 113–5 substituted “$30,800,000 for each of fiscal years 2014 through 2018” for “such sums for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2011”.

2006—Pub. L. 109–417 amended section catchline and text generally, substituting provisions relating to vaccine tracking and distribution for provisions relating to establishment of capacities to combat threats to public health.

2002—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 107–188 substituted “five years” for “10 years”.

§247d–2. Earlier development of diagnostic tests

42 U.S.C. § 247d–2

The Secretary may contract with public and private entities, as appropriate, to increase capacity in the rapid development, validation, manufacture, and dissemination of diagnostic tests, as appropriate, to State, local, and Tribal health departments and other appropriate entities for immediate public health response activities to address an emerging infectious disease with respect to which a public health emergency is declared under section 247d of this title, or that has significant potential to cause such a public health emergency.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319B, as added Pub. L. 117–328, div. FF, title II, § 2303(b), Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 5758.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 247d–2, act July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319B, as added Pub. L. 106–505, title I, § 102, Nov. 13, 2000, 114 Stat. 2317; amended Pub. L. 107–188, title I, § 111(2), June 12, 2002, 116 Stat. 611, related to grants to States to assess public health needs, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 109–417, title II, § 204(b)(1), Dec. 19, 2006, 120 Stat. 2851.

§247d–3a. Improving State and local public health security

42 U.S.C. § 247d–3a

(a)
In general— To enhance the security of the United States with respect to public health emergencies, the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, shall award cooperative agreements to eligible entities to enable such entities to conduct the activities described in subsection (d).
(b)
Eligible entities— To be eligible to receive an award under subsection (a), an entity shall—
(1)
(A)
be a State;
(B)
be a political subdivision determined by the Secretary to be eligible for an award under this section (based on criteria described in subsection (h)(4)); or
(C)
be a consortium of States; and
(2)
prepare and submit to the Secretary an application at such time, and in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require, including—
(A)
an All-Hazards Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan which shall include—
(i)
a description of the activities such entity will carry out under the agreement to meet the goals identified under section 300hh–1 of this title, including with respect to chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear threats, whether naturally occurring, unintentional, or deliberate;
(ii)
a description of the activities such entity will carry out with respect to pandemic influenza, as a component of the activities carried out under clause (i), and consistent with the requirements of paragraphs (2) and (5) of subsection (g);
(iii)
preparedness and response strategies and capabilities that take into account the medical and public health needs of at-risk individuals in the event of a public health emergency;
(iv)
a description of the mechanism the entity will implement to utilize the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, or other mutual aid agreement, for medical and public health mutual aid, and, as appropriate, the activities such entity will implement pursuant to section 247d–7b of this title to improve enrollment and coordination of volunteer health care professionals seeking to provide medical services during a public health emergency, which may include—
(I)
providing a public method of communication for purposes of volunteer coordination (such as a phone number);
(II)
providing for optional registration to participate in volunteer services during processes related to State medical licensing, registration, or certification or renewal of such licensing, registration, or certification; or
(III)
other mechanisms as the State determines appropriate;
(v)
a description of how the entity will include the StateUnit on Aging in public health emergency preparedness;
(vi)
a description of how, as appropriate, the entity may partner with relevant public and private stakeholders, including public health agencies with specific expertise that may be relevant to public health security, such as environmental health agencies, in public health emergency preparedness and response;
(vii)
a description of how, as applicable, such entity may integrate information to account for individuals with behavioral health needs during and following a public health emergency;
(viii)
a description of how the entity, as applicable and appropriate, will coordinate with State emergency preparedness and response plans in public health emergency preparedness, including State education agencies1 (as defined in section 7801 of title 20), Statechild care lead agencies (designated under section 9858b of this title), and other relevant State agencies2
(ix)
in the case of entities that operate on the United States-Mexico border or the United States-Canada border, a description of the activities such entity will carry out under the agreement that are specific to the border area including disease detection, identification, investigation, and preparedness and response activities related to emerging diseases and infectious disease outbreaks whether naturally occurring or due to bioterrorism, consistent with the requirements of this section;
(x)
a description of any activities that such entity will use to analyze real-time clinical specimens for pathogens of public health or bioterrorism significance, including any utilization of poison control centers;
(xi)
a description of how the entity will partner with health care facilities, including hospitals and nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, to promote and improve public health preparedness and response;
(xii)
a description of how the entity will provide technical assistance to improve public health preparedness and response, as appropriate, to agencies or other entities that operate facilities within the entity’s jurisdiction in which there is an increased risk of infectious disease outbreaks in the event of a public health emergency declared under section 247d of this title, such as residential care facilities, group homes, and other similar settings; and
(xiii)
a description of how, as appropriate and practicable, the entity will include critical infrastructure partners, such as utility companies within the entity’s jurisdiction, in planning pursuant to this subparagraph to help ensure that critical infrastructure will remain functioning during, or return to function as soon as practicable after, a public health emergency;
(B)
an assurance that the entity will report to the Secretary on an annual basis (or more frequently as determined by the Secretary) on the evidence-based benchmarks and objective standards established by the Secretary to evaluate the preparedness and response capabilities of such entity under subsection (g);
(C)
an assurance that the entity will conduct, on at least an annual basis, an exercise or drill that meets any criteria established by the Secretary to test the preparedness and response capabilities of such entity, including addressing the needs of at-risk individuals, and that the entity will report back to the Secretary within the application of the following year on the strengths and weaknesses identified through such exercise or drill, and corrective actions taken to address material weaknesses;
(D)
an assurance that the entity will require relevant staff to complete relevant preparedness and response trainings, including trainings related to efficient and effective operation during an incident or event within an Incident Command System;
(E)
an assurance that the entity will provide to the Secretary the data described under section 247d–4(c)(3) of this title as determined feasible by the Secretary;
(F)
an assurance that the entity will conduct activities to inform and educate the hospitals within the jurisdiction of such entity on the role of such hospitals in the plan required under subparagraph (A);
(G)
an assurance that the entity, with respect to the plan described under subparagraph (A), has developed and will implement an accountability system to ensure that such entity makes satisfactory annual improvement and describes such system in the plan under subparagraph (A);
(H)
a description of the means by which to obtain public comment and input on the plan described in subparagraph (A) and on the implementation of such plan, that shall include an advisory committee or other similar mechanism for obtaining comment from the public and from other State, local, and tribal stakeholders; and
(I)
as relevant, a description of the process used by the entity to consult with local departments of public health to reach consensus, approval, or concurrence on the relative distribution of amounts received under this section.
(c)
Limitation— Beginning in fiscal year 2009, the Secretary may not award a cooperative agreement to a State unless such State is a participant in the Emergency System for Advance Registration of Volunteer Health Professionals described in section 247d–7b of this title.
(d)
Use of funds—
(1)
In general— An award under subsection (a) shall be expended for activities to achieve the preparedness goals described under paragraphs (1), (2), (4), (5), and (6) of section 300hh–1(b) of this title.
(2)
Effect of section— Nothing in this subsection may be construed as establishing new regulatory authority or as modifying any existing regulatory authority.
(e)
Coordination with local response capabilities— An entity shall, to the extent practicable, ensure that activities carried out under an award under subsection (a) are coordinated with activities of relevant Metropolitan Medical Response Systems, local public health departments, the Cities Readiness Initiative, local emergency plans, and any regional health care emergency preparedness and response system established pursuant to the applicable guidelines under section 247d–3c of this title.
(f)
Consultation with Homeland Security— In making awards under subsection (a), the Secretary shall consult with the Secretary of Homeland Security to—
(1)
ensure maximum coordination of public health and medical preparedness and response activities with the Metropolitan Medical Response System, and other relevant activities;
(2)
minimize duplicative funding of programs and activities; and
(3)
analyze activities, including exercises and drills, conducted under this section to develop recommendations and guidance on best practices for such activities.
(g)
Achievement of measurable evidence-based benchmarks and objective standards—
(1)
In general— Not later than 180 days after December 19, 2006, the Secretary shall develop or where appropriate adopt, and require the application of, measurable evidence-based benchmarks and objective standards that measure levels of preparedness with respect to the activities described in this section and with respect to activities described in section 247d–3b of this title. In developing such benchmarks and standards, the Secretary shall consult with and seek comments from State, local, and tribal officials and private entities, as appropriate. Where appropriate, the Secretary shall incorporate existing objective standards. Such benchmarks and standards shall—
(A)
include outcome goals representing operational achievements of the National Preparedness Goals developed under section 300hh–1(b) of this title with respect to all-hazards, including chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear threats; and
(B)
at a minimum, require entities to—
(i)
measure progress toward achieving the outcome goals; and
(ii)
at least annually, test, exercise, and rigorously evaluate the public health and medical emergency preparedness and response capabilities of the entity, and report to the Secretary on such measured and tested capabilities and measured and tested progress toward achieving outcome goals, based on criteria established by the Secretary.
(2)
Criteria for pandemic influenza plans—
(A)
In general— Not later than 180 days after December 19, 2006, the Secretary shall develop and disseminate to the chief executive officer of each State criteria for an effective State plan for responding to pandemic influenza. The Secretary shall periodically update, as necessary and appropriate, such pandemic influenza plan criteria and shall require the integration of such criteria into the benchmarks and standards described in paragraph (1).
(B)
Rule of construction— Nothing in this section shall be construed to require the duplication of Federal efforts with respect to the development of criteria or standards, without regard to whether such efforts were carried out prior to or after December 19, 2006.3
(3)
Technical assistance— The Secretary shall, as determined appropriate by the Secretary, provide to a State, upon request, technical assistance in meeting the requirements of this section, including the provision of advice by experts in the development of high-quality assessments, the setting of State objectives and assessment methods, the development of measures of satisfactory annual improvement that are valid and reliable, and other relevant areas.
(4)
Notification of failures— The Secretary shall develop and implement a process to notify entities that are determined by the Secretary to have failed to meet the requirements of paragraph (1) or (2). Such process shall provide such entities with the opportunity to correct such noncompliance. An entity that fails to correct such noncompliance shall be subject to paragraph (5).
(5)
Withholding of amounts from entities that fail to achieve benchmarks or submit influenza plan— Beginning with fiscal year 2019, and in each succeeding fiscal year, the Secretary shall—
(A)
withhold from each entity that has failed substantially to meet the benchmarks and performance measures described in paragraph (1) for either of the 2 immediately preceding fiscal years (beginning with fiscal year 2018), pursuant to the process developed under paragraph (4), the amount described in paragraph (6); and
(B)
withhold from each entity that has failed to submit to the Secretary a plan for responding to pandemic influenza that meets the criteria developed under paragraph (2), the amount described in paragraph (6).
(6)
Amounts described—
(A)
In general— The amounts described in this paragraph are the following amounts that are payable to an entity for activities described in this section or section 247d–3b of this title:
(i)
For no more than one of each of the first 2 fiscal years immediately following a fiscal year in which an entity experienced a failure described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of paragraph (5), an amount equal to 10 percent of the amount the entity was eligible to receive for the respective fiscal year.
(ii)
For no more than one of the first 2 fiscal years immediately following the third consecutive fiscal year in which an entity experienced such a failure, in lieu of applying clause (i), an amount equal to 15 percent of the amount the entity was eligible to receive for the respective fiscal year.
(B)
Separate accounting— Each failure described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of paragraph (5) shall be treated as a separate failure for purposes of calculating amounts withheld under subparagraph (A).
(7)
Reallocation of amounts withheld—
(A)
In general— The Secretary shall make amounts withheld under paragraph (6) available for making awards under section 247d–3b of this title to entities described in subsection (b)(1) of such section.
(B)
Preference in reallocation— In making awards under section 247d–3b of this title with amounts described in subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall give preference to eligible entities (as described in section 247d–3b(b)(1) of this title) that are located in whole or in part in States from which amounts have been withheld under paragraph (6).
(8)
Waive or reduce withholding— The Secretary may waive or reduce the withholding described in paragraph (6), for a single entity or for all entities in a fiscal year, if the Secretary determines that mitigating conditions exist that justify the waiver or reduction.
(h)
Funding—
(1)
Authorization of appropriations—
(A)
In general— For the purpose of carrying out this section, there is authorized to be appropriated $685,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2023 for awards pursuant to paragraph (3) (subject to the authority of the Secretary to make awards pursuant to paragraphs (4) and (5)).
(B)
Requirement for State matching funds— Beginning in fiscal year 2009, in the case of any State or consortium of two or more States, the Secretary may not award a cooperative agreement under this section unless the State or consortium of States agree that, with respect to the amount of the cooperative agreement awarded by the Secretary, the State or consortium of States will make available (directly or through donations from public or private entities) non-Federal contributions in an amount equal to—
(i)
for the first fiscal year of the cooperative agreement, not less than 5 percent of such costs ($1 for each $20 of Federal funds provided in the cooperative agreement); and
(ii)
for any second fiscal year of the cooperative agreement, and for any subsequent fiscal year of such cooperative agreement, not less than 10 percent of such costs ($1 for each $10 of Federal funds provided in the cooperative agreement).
(C)
Determination of amount of non-Federal contributions— As determined by the Secretary, non-Federal contributions required in subparagraph (B) may be provided directly or through donations from public or private entities and may be in cash or in kind, fairly evaluated, including plant, equipment or services. Amounts provided by the Federal government, or services assisted or subsidized to any significant extent by the Federal government, may not be included in determining the amount of such non-Federal contributions.
(2)
Maintaining State funding—
(A)
In general— An entity that receives an award under this section shall maintain expenditures for public health security at a level that is not less than the average level of such expenditures maintained by the entity for the preceding 2 year period.
(B)
Rule of construction— Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the use of awards under this section to pay salary and related expenses of public health and other professionals employed by State, local, or tribal public health agencies who are carrying out activities supported by such awards (regardless of whether the primary assignment of such personnel is to carry out such activities).
(3)
Determination of amount—
(A)
In general— The Secretary shall award cooperative agreements under subsection (a) to each State or consortium of 2 or more States that submits to the Secretary an application that meets the criteria of the Secretary for the receipt of such an award and that meets other implementation conditions established by the Secretary for such awards.
(B)
Base amount— In determining the amount of an award pursuant to subparagraph (A) for a State, the Secretary shall first determine an amount the Secretary considers appropriate for the State (referred to in this paragraph as the “base amount”), except that such amount may not be greater than the minimum amount determined under subparagraph (D).
(C)
Increase on basis of population— After determining the base amount for a State under subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall increase the base amount by an amount equal to the product of—
(i)
the amount appropriated under paragraph (1)(A) for the fiscal year, less an amount equal to the sum of all base amounts determined for the States under subparagraph (B), and less the amount, if any, reserved by the Secretary under paragraphs (4) and (5); and
(ii)
subject to paragraph (4)(C), the percentage constituted by the ratio of an amount equal to the population of the State over an amount equal to the total population of the States (as indicated by the most recent data collected by the Bureau of the Census).
(D)
Minimum amount— Subject to the amount appropriated under paragraph (1)(A), an award pursuant to subparagraph (A) for a State shall be the greater of the base amount as increased under subparagraph (C), or the minimum amount under this subparagraph. The minimum amount under this subparagraph is—
(i)
in the case of each of the several States, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, an amount equal to the lesser of—
(I)
$5,000,000; or
(II)
if the amount appropriated under paragraph (1)(A) is less than $667,000,000, an amount equal to 0.75 percent of the amount appropriated under such paragraph, less the amount, if any, reserved by the Secretary under paragraphs (4) and (5); or
(ii)
in the case of each of American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Virgin Islands, an amount determined by the Secretary to be appropriate, except that such amount may not exceed the amount determined under clause (i).
(4)
Certain political subdivisions—
(A)
In general— For fiscal year 2007, the Secretary may, before making awards pursuant to paragraph (3) for such year, reserve from the amount appropriated under paragraph (1) for the year an amount determined necessary by the Secretary to make awards under subsection (a) to political subdivisions that have a substantial number of residents, have a substantial local infrastructure for responding to public health emergencies, and face a high degree of risk from bioterrorist attacks or other public health emergencies. Not more than three political subdivisions may receive awards pursuant to this subparagraph.
(B)
Coordination with Statewide plans— An award pursuant to subparagraph (A) may not be made unless the application of the political subdivision involved is in coordination with, and consistent with, applicable Statewide plans described in subsection (b).
(C)
Relationship to formula grants— In the case of a State that will receive an award pursuant to paragraph (3), and in which there is located a political subdivision that will receive an award pursuant to subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall, in determining the amount under paragraph (3)(C) for the State, subtract from the population of the State an amount equal to the population of such political subdivision.
(D)
Continuity of funding— In determining whether to make an award pursuant to subparagraph (A) to a political subdivision, the Secretary may consider, as a factor indicating that the award should be made, that the political subdivision received public health funding from the Secretary for fiscal year 2006.
(5)
Significant unmet needs; degree of risk—
(A)
In general— For fiscal year 2007, the Secretary may, before making awards pursuant to paragraph (3) for such year, reserve from the amount appropriated under paragraph (1) for the year an amount determined necessary by the Secretary to make awards under subsection (a) to eligible entities that—
(i)
have a significant need for funds to build capacity to identify, detect, monitor, and respond to a bioterrorist or other threat to the public health, which need will not be met by awards pursuant to paragraph (3); and
(ii)
face a particularly high degree of risk of such a threat.
(B)
Recipients of grants— Awards pursuant to subparagraph (A) may be supplemental awards to States that receive awards pursuant to paragraph (3), or may be awards to eligible entities described in subsection (b)(1)(B) within such States.
(C)
Finding with respect to District of Columbia— The Secretary shall consider the District of Columbia to have a significant unmet need for purposes of subparagraph (A), and to face a particularly high degree of risk for such purposes, on the basis of the concentration of entities of national significance located within the District.
(6)
Funding of local entities— The Secretary shall, in making awards under this section, ensure that with respect to the cooperative agreement awarded, the entity make available appropriate portions of such award to political subdivisions and local departments of public health through a process involving the consensus, approval or concurrence with such local entities.
(7)
Availability of cooperative agreement funds—
(A)
In general— Amounts provided to an eligible entity under a cooperative agreement under subsection (a) for a fiscal year and remaining unobligated at the end of such year shall remain available to such entity for the next fiscal year for the purposes for which such funds were provided.
(B)
Funds contingent on achieving benchmarks— The continued availability of funds under subparagraph (A) with respect to an entity shall be contingent upon such entity achieving the benchmarks and submitting the pandemic influenza plan as described in subsection (g).
(i)
Administrative and fiscal responsibility—
(1)
Annual reporting requirements— Each entity shall prepare and submit to the Secretary annual reports on its activities under this section and section 247d–3b of this title. Each such report shall be prepared by, or in consultation with, the health department. In order to properly evaluate and compare the performance of different entities assisted under this section and section 247d–3b of this title and to assure the proper expenditure of funds under this section and section 247d–3b of this title, such reports shall be in such standardized form and contain such information as the Secretary determines and describes within 180 days of December 19, 2006 (after consultation with the States) to be necessary to—
(A)
secure an accurate description of those activities;
(B)
secure a complete record of the purposes for which funds were spent, and of the recipients of such funds;
(C)
describe the extent to which the entity has met the goals and objectives it set forth under this section or section 247d–3b of this title;
(D)
determine the extent to which funds were expended consistent with the entity’s application transmitted under this section or section 247d–3b of this title; and
(E)
publish such information on a Federal Internet website consistent with subsection (j).
(2)
Audits; implementation—
(A)
In general— Each entity receiving funds under this section or section 247d–3b of this title shall, not less often than once every 2 years, audit its expenditures from amounts received under this section or section 247d–3b of this title. Such audits shall be conducted by an entity independent of the agency administering a program funded under this section or section 247d–3b of this title in accordance with the Comptroller General’s standards for auditing governmental organizations, programs, activities, and functions and generally accepted auditing standards. Within 30 days following the completion of each audit report, the entity shall submit a copy of that audit report to the Secretary.
(B)
Repayment— Each entity shall repay to the United States amounts found by the Secretary, after notice and opportunity for a hearing to the entity, not to have been expended in accordance with this section or section 247d–3b of this title and, if such repayment is not made, the Secretary may offset such amounts against the amount of any allotment to which the entity is or may become entitled under this section or section 247d–3b of this title or may otherwise recover such amounts.
(C)
Withholding of payment— The Secretary may, after notice and opportunity for a hearing, withhold payment of funds to any entity which is not using its allotment under this section or section 247d–3b of this title in accordance with such section. The Secretary may withhold such funds until the Secretary finds that the reason for the withholding has been removed and there is reasonable assurance that it will not recur.
(j)
Compilation and availability of data— The Secretary shall compile the data submitted under this section and make such data available in a timely manner on an appropriate Internet website in a format that is useful to the public and to other entities and that provides information on what activities are best contributing to the achievement of the outcome goals described in subsection (g).
(k)
Evaluation—
(1)
In general— Not later than 2 years after June 24, 2019, and every 2 years thereafter, the Secretary shall conduct an evaluation of the evidence-based benchmarks and objective standards required under subsection (g). Such evaluation shall be submitted to the congressional committees of jurisdiction together with the National Health Security Strategy under section 300hh–1 of this title, at such time as such strategy is submitted.
(2)
Content— The evaluation under this paragraph shall include—
(A)
a review of evidence-based benchmarks and objective standards, and associated metrics and targets;
(B)
a discussion of changes to any evidence-based benchmarks and objective standards, and the effect of such changes on the ability to track whether entities are meeting or making progress toward the goals under this section and, to the extent practicable, the applicable goals of the National Health Security Strategy under section 300hh–1 of this title;
(C)
a description of amounts received by eligible entities described in subsection (b) and section 247d–3b(b) of this title, and amounts received by subrecipients and the effect of such funding on meeting evidence-based benchmarks and objective standards; and
(D)
recommendations, as applicable and appropriate, to improve evidence-based benchmarks and objective standards to more accurately assess the ability of entities receiving awards under this section to better achieve the goals under this section and section 300hh–1 of this title.

Footnotes

  1. 1 So in original. Section 7801 of title 20 defines “State educational agencies”.
  2. 2 So in original. Probably should be followed by a semicolon.
  3. 3 See Codification note below.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319C–1, as added Pub. L. 107–188, title I, § 131(a), June 12, 2002, 116 Stat. 617; amended Pub. L. 109–417, title II, § 201, Dec. 19, 2006, 120 Stat. 2837; Pub. L. 113–5, title II, §§ 202(a), (c)(1), 204(b), Mar. 13, 2013, 127 Stat. 173, 175, 179; Pub. L. 114–95, title IX, § 9215(kkk)(1), Dec. 10, 2015, 129 Stat. 2187; Pub. L. 116–22, title II, §§ 201(a), 202(a), (b)(1), (d), 203(e)(1), 207(b), title VII, § 705(b), June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 907–910, 914, 927, 964; Pub. L. 117–328, div. FF, title II, § 2111(a), Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 5720.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

December 19, 2006, referred to in subsec. (g)(2)(B), was in the original “the date of enactment of this section”, which was translated as meaning the date of enactment of Pub. L. 109–417, which enacted subsec. (g) of this section, to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

Amendments

2022—Subsec. (b)(2)(A)(vii). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2111(a)(1)(A), inserted “during and” before “following a public health emergency”.

Subsec. (b)(2)(A)(viii). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2111(a)(1)(B), amended cl. (viii) generally. Prior to amendment, cl. (viii) read as follows: “a description of how the entity, as applicable and appropriate, will coordinate with State emergency preparedness and response plans in public health emergency preparedness, including State educational agencies (as defined in section 7801 of title 20) and State child care lead agencies (designated under section 9858b of this title);”.

Subsec. (b)(2)(A)(xii), (xiii). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2111(a)(1)(C)–(E), added cl. (xii) and redesignated former cl. (xii) as (xiii).

Subsec. (b)(2)(D) to (I). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2111(a)(2), (3), added subpar. (D) and redesignated former subpars. (D) to (H) as (E) to (I), respectively.

2019—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(a)(1), inserted “, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,” after “the Secretary”.

Subsec. (b)(2)(A)(iv). Pub. L. 116–22, § 207(b), amended cl. (iv) generally. Prior to amendment, cl. (iv) read as follows: “a description of the mechanism the entity will implement to utilize the Emergency Management Assistance Compact or other mutual aid agreements for medical and public health mutual aid;”.

Subsec. (b)(2)(A)(vi). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(a)(2)(A), inserted “, including public health agencies with specific expertise that may be relevant to public health security, such as environmental health agencies,” after “stakeholders”.

Subsec. (b)(2)(A)(vii) to (x). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(a)(2)(B), (C), added cl. (vii) and redesignated former cls. (vii) to (ix) as (viii) to (x), respectively.

Subsec. (b)(2)(A)(xi), (xii). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(a)(2)(D), (E), added cls. (xi) and (xii).

Subsec. (b)(2)(C). Pub. L. 116–22, § 705(b)(1), substituted “individuals,” for “individuals,,”.

Subsec. (b)(2)(F). Pub. L. 116–22, § 705(b)(2), substituted “makes satisfactory annual improvement and describes” for “make satisfactory annual improvement and describe”.

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 116–22, § 203(e)(1), substituted “, local emergency plans, and any regional health care emergency preparedness and response system established pursuant to the applicable guidelines under section 247d–3c of this title.” for “, and local emergency plans.”

Subsec. (g)(5). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(b)(1)(A)(i), substituted “Beginning with fiscal year 2019” for “Beginning with fiscal year 2009” in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (g)(5)(A). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(b)(1)(A)(ii), substituted “for either of the 2 immediately preceding fiscal years” for “for the immediately preceding fiscal year” and “2018” for “2008”.

Subsec. (g)(6)(A). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(b)(1)(B), amended subpar. (A) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (A) consisted of cls. (i) to (iv) describing amounts payable to an entity for the fiscal year immediately following one to four fiscal years in which the entity experienced a failure described in subsec. (g)(5)(A) or (B).

Subsec. (h)(1)(A). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(d), substituted “$685,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2023 for awards pursuant to paragraph (3) (subject to the authority of the Secretary to make awards pursuant to paragraphs (4) and (5)).” for “$641,900,000 for fiscal year 2014 for awards pursuant to paragraph (3) (subject to the authority of the Secretary to make awards pursuant to paragraphs (4) and (5)), and $641,900,000 for each of fiscal years 2015 through 2018.”

Subsec. (k). Pub. L. 116–22, § 201(a), added subsec. (k).

2015—Subsec. (b)(2)(A)(vii). Pub. L. 114–95 substituted “including State educational agencies (as defined in section 7801 of title 20)” for “including State educational agencies (as defined in section 7801(41) of title 20)”.

2013—Subsec. (b)(1)(B). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(c)(1), substituted “subsection (h)(4)” for “subsection (i)(4)”.

Subsec. (b)(1)(C). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(1), substituted “consortium of States” for “consortium of entities described in subparagraph (A)”.

Subsec. (b)(2)(A)(i), (ii). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(2)(A)(i), added cls. (i) and (ii) and struck out former cls. (i) and (ii) which read as follows:

“(i) a description of the activities such entity will carry out under the agreement to meet the goals identified under section 300hh–1 of this title;

“(ii) a pandemic influenza plan consistent with the requirements of paragraphs (2) and (5) of subsection (g);”.

Subsec. (b)(2)(A)(vi) to (ix). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(2)(A)(ii), (iii), added cls. (vi) to (ix).

Subsec. (b)(2)(C). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(2)(B), inserted “, including addressing the needs of at-risk individuals,” after “capabilities of such entity”.

Subsec. (b)(2)(D). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(b), substituted “section 247d–4(c)(3)” for “section 247d–4(d)(3)”.

Subsec. (f)(2) to (4). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(3), inserted “and” at end of par. (2), substituted period for “; and” at end of par. (3), and struck out par. (4) which read as follows: “disseminate such recommendations and guidance, including through expanding existing lessons learned information systems to create a single Internet-based point of access for sharing and distributing medical and public health best practices and lessons learned from drills, exercises, disasters, and other emergencies.”

Subsec. (g)(1)(A). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(4)(A), added subpar. (A) and struck out former subpar. (A) which read as follows: “include outcome goals representing operational achievement of the National Preparedness Goals developed under section 300hh–1(b) of this title; and”.

Subsec. (g)(2)(A). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(4)(B), inserted at end “The Secretary shall periodically update, as necessary and appropriate, such pandemic influenza plan criteria and shall require the integration of such criteria into the benchmarks and standards described in paragraph (1).”

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(5), (6), redesignated subsec. (i) as (h) and struck out former subsec. (h) which related to grants for real-time disease detection improvement.

Subsec. (h)(1)(A). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(7)(A)(i), substituted “$641,900,000 for fiscal year 2014” for “$824,000,000 for fiscal year 2007, of which $35,000,000 shall be used to carry out subsection (h),” and “$641,900,000 for each of fiscal years 2015 through 2018” for “such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2011”.

Subsec. (h)(1)(B) to (D). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(7)(A)(ii)–(iv), redesignated subpars. (C) and (D) as (B) and (C), respectively, substituted “subparagraph (B)” for “subparagraph (C)” in subpar. (C), and struck out former subpar. (B). Prior to amendment, text of subpar. (B) read as follows: “There are authorized to be appropriated, $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2007 to carry out subsection (f)(4) of this section and section 300hh–16 of this title.”

Subsec. (h)(3)(C), (D). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(7)(B), substituted “paragraph (1)(A)” for “paragraph (1)(A)(i)(I)” wherever appearing.

Subsec. (h)(4)(B). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(7)(C), substituted “subsection (b)” for “subsection (c)”.

Subsec. (h)(7). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(7)(D), added par. (7).

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(6), redesignated subsec. (j) as (i). Former subsec. (i) redesignated (h).

Subsec. (i)(1)(E). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(8)(A), substituted “subsection (j)” for “subsection (k)”.

Subsec. (i)(3). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(8)(B), struck out par. (3) which related to maximum amount of an award under this section that may be carried over to the succeeding fiscal year.

Subsecs. (j), (k). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(a)(6), redesignated subsec. (k) as (j). Former subsec. (j) redesignated (i).

2006—Pub. L. 109–417, § 201(1), substituted “Improving State and local public health security” for “Grants to improve State, local, and hospital preparedness for and response to bioterrorism and other public health emergencies” in section catchline.

Subsecs. (a) to (h). Pub. L. 109–417, § 201(2), added subsecs. (a) to (h) and struck out former subsecs. (a) to (h) which related to grants to improve State, local, and hospital preparedness for and response to bioterrorism and other public health emergencies.

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 109–417, § 201(3), redesignated subsec. (j) as (i).

Pub. L. 109–417, § 201(2), struck out subsec. (i) which defined “eligible entity”.

Subsec. (i)(1) to (3)(A). Pub. L. 109–417, § 201(4)(A), added pars. (1) to (3)(A) and struck out former pars. (1) to (3)(A) which related to appropriations for fiscal years 2003 through 2006, use of amounts to supplement and not supplant other funds, and conditions for receipt of award in fiscal year 2003.

Subsec. (i)(4)(A). Pub. L. 109–417, § 201(4)(B), substituted “fiscal year 2007” for “fiscal year 2003” and struck out “(A)(i)(I)” after “paragraph (1)”.

Subsec. (i)(4)(D). Pub. L. 109–417, § 201(4)(C), substituted “fiscal year 2006” for “fiscal year 2002”.

Subsec. (i)(5)(A). Pub. L. 109–417, § 201(4)(D), in introductory provisions, substituted “fiscal year 2007” for “fiscal year 2003” and struck out “(A)(i)(I)” after “paragraph (1)”.

Subsec. (i)(6). Pub. L. 109–417, § 201(4)(E), added par. (6) and struck out heading and text of former par. (6). Text read as follows: “For fiscal year 2003, the Secretary shall in making awards under this section ensure that appropriate portions of such awards are made available to political subdivisions, local departments of public health, hospitals (including children’s hospitals), clinics, health centers, or primary care facilities, or consortia of such entities.”

Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 109–417, § 201(5), added subsec. (j).

Pub. L. 109–417, § 201(3), redesignated subsec. (j) as (i).

Subsec. (k). Pub. L. 109–417, § 201(5), added subsec. (k).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2022 Amendment

Pub. L. 117–328, div. FF, title II, § 2111(b), Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 5721, provided that: “The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall not apply with respect to any cooperative agreement entered into prior to the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 29, 2022].”

Effective Date of 2019 Amendment

Pub. L. 116–22, title II, § 202(b)(2), June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 909, provided that: “The amendments made by paragraph (1) [amending this section] shall apply with respect to cooperative agreements awarded on or after the date of enactment of this Act [June 24, 2019].”

Effective Date of 2015 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 114–95 effective Dec. 10, 2015, except with respect to certain noncompetitive programs and competitive programs, see section 5 of Pub. L. 114–95, set out as a note under section 6301 of Title 20, Education.

Emergency Medical and Public Health Communications Pilot Projects

Pub. L. 110–53, title XXII, § 2201(d), Aug. 3, 2007, 121 Stat. 541, provided that: In general.—The Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information may establish not more than 10 geographically dispersed project grants to emergency medical and public health care facilities to improve the capabilities of emergency communications systems in emergency medical care facilities. Maximum amount.—The Assistant Secretary may not provide more than $2,000,000 in Federal assistance under the pilot program to any applicant. Cost sharing.—The Assistant Secretary may not provide more than 20 percent of the cost, incurred during the period of the grant, of any project under the pilot program. Maximum period of grants.—The Assistant Secretary may not fund any applicant under the pilot program for more than 3 years. Deployment and distribution.—The Assistant Secretary shall seek to the maximum extent practicable to ensure a broad geographic distribution of project sites. Transfer of information and knowledge.—The Assistant Secretary shall establish mechanisms to ensure that the information and knowledge gained by participants in the pilot program are transferred among the pilot program participants and to other interested parties, including other applicants that submitted applications.”

§247d–3b. Partnerships for State and regional hospital preparedness to improve surge capacity

42 U.S.C. § 247d–3b

(a)
In general— The Secretary, acting through the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, shall award competitive grants or cooperative agreements to eligible entities to enable such entities to improve surge capacity and enhance community and hospital preparedness for, and response to, public health emergencies in accordance with subsection (c), including, as appropriate, capacity and preparedness to address the needs of children and other at-risk individuals.
(b)
Eligibility— To be eligible for an award under subsection (a), an entity shall—
(1)
(A)
be a coalition that includes—
(i)
one or more hospitals, at least one of which shall be a designated trauma center, consistent with section 300d–13(c) of this title;
(ii)
one or more other local health care facilities, including clinics, health centers, community health centers, primary care facilities, mental health centers, mobile medical assets, or nursing homes;
(iii)
(I)
one or more political subdivisions;
(II)
one or more States; or
(III)
one or more States and one or more political subdivisions; and
(iv)
one or more emergency medical service organizations or emergency management organizations; and
(B)
prepare, in consultation with the Chief Executive Officer and the lead health officials of the State, District, or territory in which the hospital and health care facilities described in subparagraph (A) are located, and submit to the Secretary, an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require; or
(2)
(A)
be an entity described in section 247d–3a(b)(1) of this title; and
(B)
submit an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require, including the information or assurances required under section 247d–3a(b)(2) of this title and an assurance that the State will adhere to any applicable guidelines established by the Secretary.
(c)
Use of funds— An award under subsection (a) shall be expended for activities to achieve the preparedness goals described under paragraphs (1), (3), (4), (5), and (6) of section 300hh–1(b) of this title with respect to all-hazards, including chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear threats.
(d)
Preferences—
(1)
Regional coordination— In making awards under subsection (a), the Secretary shall give preference to eligible entities that submit applications that, in the determination of the Secretary
(A)
will enhance coordination—
(i)
among the entities described in subsection (b)(1)(A)(i);
(ii)
among one or more facilities in a regional health care emergency system under section 247d–3c of this title; and
(iii)
between such entities and the entities described in subsection (b)(1)(A)(ii); and
(B)
include, in the coalition described in subsection (b)(1)(A), a significant percentage of the hospitals and health care facilities within the geographic area served by such coalition.
(2)
Other preferences— In making awards under subsection (a), the Secretary shall give preference to eligible entities that, in the determination of the Secretary
(A)
include one or more hospitals that are participants in the National Disaster Medical System;
(B)
are located in a geographic area that faces a high degree of risk, as determined by the Secretary in consultation with the Secretary of Homeland Security; or
(C)
have a significant need for funds to achieve the preparedness and response goals described in section 300hh–1(b)(3) of this title.
(e)
Consistency of planned activities— The Secretary may not award a cooperative agreement to an eligible entity described in subsection (b)(1) unless the application submitted by the entity is coordinated and consistent with an applicable State All-Hazards Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan and relevant local plans, as determined by the Secretary in consultation with relevant State health officials.
(f)
Limitation on awards— A political subdivision shall not participate in more than one coalition described in subsection (b)(1).
(g)
Coordination—
(1)
Local response capabilities— An eligible entity shall, to the extent practicable, ensure that activities carried out under an award under subsection (a) are coordinated with activities of relevant local Metropolitan Medical Response Systems, local Medical Reserve Corps, the local Cities Readiness Initiative, and local emergency plans.
(2)
National collaboration— Coalitions consisting of one or more eligible entities under this section may, to the extent practicable, collaborate with other coalitions consisting of one or more eligible entities under this section for purposes of national coordination and collaboration with respect to activities to achieve the preparedness and response goals described under paragraphs (1), (3), (4), (5), and (6) of section 300hh–1(b) of this title.
(h)
Maintenance of funding—
(1)
In general— An entity that receives an award under this section shall maintain expenditures for health care preparedness at a level that is not less than the average level of such expenditures maintained by the entity for the preceding 2 year period.
(2)
Rule of construction— Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the use of awards under this section to pay salary and related expenses of public health and other professionals employed by State, local, or tribal agencies who are carrying out activities supported by such awards (regardless of whether the primary assignment of such personnel is to carry out such activities).
(i)
Performance and accountability—
(1)
In general— The requirements of section 247d–3a(g), (i), (j), and (k) of this title shall apply to entities receiving awards under this section (regardless of whether such entities are described under subsection (b)(1)(A) or (b)(2)(A)) in the same manner as such requirements apply to entities under section 247d–3a of this title. In submitting reports under this paragraph, a coalition shall include information on the progress that the coalition has made toward the implementation of section 247d–3c of this title (or barriers to progress, if any). A coalition described in subsection (b)(1)(A) shall make such reports available to the lead health official of the State in which such coalition is located.
(2)
Meeting goals of National Health Security Strategy— The Secretary shall implement objective, evidence-based metrics to ensure that entities receiving awards under this section are meeting, to the extent practicable, the applicable goals of the National Health Security Strategy under section 300hh–1 of this title.
(j)
Authorization of appropriations—
(1)
In general—
(A)
Authorization of appropriations— For purposes of carrying out this section and section 247d–3c of this title, in accordance with subparagraph (B), there is authorized to be appropriated $385,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2023.
(B)
Reservation of amounts for regional systems—
(i)
In general— Subject to clause (ii), of the amount appropriated under subparagraph (A) for a fiscal year, the Secretary may reserve up to 5 percent for the purpose of carrying out section 247d–3c of this title.
(ii)
Reservation contingent on continued appropriations for this section— If for fiscal year 2019 or a subsequent fiscal year, the amount appropriated under subparagraph (A) is such that, after application of clause (i), the amount remaining for the purpose of carrying out this section would be less than the amount available for such purpose for the previous fiscal year, the amount that may be reserved under clause (i) shall be reduced such that the amount remaining for the purpose of carrying out this section is not less than the amount available for such purpose for the previous fiscal year.
(iii)
Sunset— The authority to reserve amounts under clause (i) shall expire on September 30, 2023.
(2)
Reservation of amounts for partnerships— Prior to making awards described in paragraph (3), the Secretary may reserve from the amount appropriated under paragraph (1)(A) for a fiscal year and not reserved for the purpose described in paragraph (1)(B)(i), an amount determined appropriate by the Secretary for making awards to entities described in subsection (b)(1)(A).
(3)
Awards to States and political subdivisions—
(A)
In general— From amounts appropriated for a fiscal year under paragraph (1)(A) and not reserved under paragraph (1)(B)(i) or (2), the Secretary shall make awards to entities described in subsection (b)(2)(A) that have completed an application as described in subsection (b)(2)(B).
(B)
Amount— The Secretary shall determine the amount of an award to each entity described in subparagraph (A) in the same manner as such amounts are determined under section 247d–3a(h) of this title.
(4)
Availability of cooperative agreement funds—
(A)
In general— Amounts provided to an eligible entity under a cooperative agreement under subsection (a) for a fiscal year and remaining unobligated at the end of such year shall remain available to such entity for the next fiscal year for the purposes for which such funds were provided.
(B)
Funds contingent on achieving benchmarks— The continued availability of funds under subparagraph (A) with respect to an entity shall be contingent upon such entity achieving the benchmarks and submitting the pandemic influenza plan as required under subsection (i).
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319C–2, as added Pub. L. 107–188, title I, § 131(a), June 12, 2002, 116 Stat. 624; amended Pub. L. 109–417, title III, § 305, Dec. 19, 2006, 120 Stat. 2861; Pub. L. 110–85, title XI, § 1104(1), Sept. 27, 2007, 121 Stat. 975; Pub. L. 113–5, title II, §§ 202(c)(2), 203(c), Mar. 13, 2013, 127 Stat. 175, 176; Pub. L. 116–22, title II, §§ 201(b), 202(c), (e), 203(c), (e)(2), June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 908–910, 914.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2019—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(c)(1), inserted “, acting through the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response,” after “The Secretary” and substituted “preparedness for, and response to, public health emergencies in accordance with subsection (c)” for “preparedness for public health emergencies”.

Subsec. (b)(1)(A). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(c)(2)(A), substituted “coalition that includes” for “partnership consisting of” in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(1)(A)(iv). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(c)(2)(B), (C), added cl. (iv).

Subsec. (d)(1)(A)(ii), (iii). Pub. L. 116–22, § 203(e)(2), added cl. (ii) and redesignated former cl. (ii) as (iii).

Subsec. (d)(1)(B). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(c)(3)(A), substituted “coalition” for “partnership” in two places.

Subsec. (d)(2)(C). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(c)(3)(B), substituted “preparedness and response” for “medical preparedness”.

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(c)(4), substituted “coalition” for “partnership”.

Subsec. (g)(2). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(c)(5), substituted “Coalitions” for “Partnerships” and “coalitions” for “partnerships” and inserted “and response” after “preparedness”.

Subsec. (i)(1). Pub. L. 116–22, § 203(c), inserted “In submitting reports under this paragraph, a coalition shall include information on the progress that the coalition has made toward the implementation of section 247d–3c of this title (or barriers to progress, if any).” after “under section 247d–3a of this title.”

Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(c)(6), substituted “A coalition” for “An entity” and “such coalition” for “such partnership”.

Pub. L. 116–22, § 201(b), substituted “section 247d–3a(g), (i), (j), and (k)” for “section 247d–3a(g), (i), and (j)”.

Subsec. (j)(1). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(e)(1), amended par. (1) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “For purposes of carrying out this section, there is authorized to be appropriated $374,700,000 for each of fiscal years 2014 through 2018.”

Subsec. (j)(2). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(e)(2), substituted “paragraph (1)(A) for a fiscal year and not reserved for the purpose described in paragraph (1)(B)(i)” for “paragraph (1) for a fiscal year”.

Subsec. (j)(3)(A). Pub. L. 116–22, § 202(e)(3), substituted “paragraph (1)(A) and not reserved under paragraph (1)(B)(i) or (2)” for “paragraph (1) and not reserved under paragraph (2)”.

2013—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 113–5, § 203(c)(1), inserted “, including, as appropriate, capacity and preparedness to address the needs of children and other at-risk individuals” before period at end.

Subsec. (b)(1)(A)(ii). Pub. L. 113–5, § 203(c)(2), substituted “centers, community health centers, primary” for “centers, primary”.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 113–5, § 203(c)(3), added subsec. (c) and struck out former subsec. (c). Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “An award under subsection (a) shall be expended for activities to achieve the preparedness goals described under paragraphs (1), (3), (4), (5), and (6) of section 300hh–1(b) of this title.”

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 113–5, § 203(c)(4), added subsec. (g) and struck out former subsec. (g). Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “An eligible entity shall, to the extent practicable, ensure that activities carried out under an award under subsection (a) are coordinated with activities of relevant local Metropolitan Medical Response Systems, local Medical Reserve Corps, the Cities Readiness Initiative, and local emergency plans.”

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 113–5, § 203(c)(5), designated existing provisions as par. (1), inserted heading, and added par. (2).

Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(c)(2)(A), substituted “(i), and (j)” for “(j), and (k)”.

Subsec. (j)(1). Pub. L. 113–5, § 203(c)(6)(A), amended par. (1) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “For the purpose of carrying out this section, there is authorized to be appropriated $474,000,000 for fiscal year 2007, and such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2011.”

Subsec. (j)(3)(B). Pub. L. 113–5, § 202(c)(2)(B), substituted “247d–3a(h)” for “247d–3a(i)”.

Subsec. (j)(4). Pub. L. 113–5, § 203(c)(6)(B), added par. (4).

2007—Subsec. (j)(3)(B). Pub. L. 110–85 substituted “section 247d–3a(i)” for “section 247d–3a(h)”.

2006—Pub. L. 109–417 amended section catchline and text generally. Prior to amendment, section consisted of subsecs. (a) to (i) relating to partnerships for community and hospital preparedness.

§247d–3c. Guidelines for regional health care emergency preparedness and response systems

42 U.S.C. § 247d–3c

(a)
Purpose— It is the purpose of this section to identify and provide guidelines for regional systems of hospitals, health care facilities, and other public and private sector entities, with varying levels of capability to treat patients and increase medical surge capacity during, in advance of, and immediately following a public health emergency, including threats posed by one or more chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear agents, including emerging infectious diseases.
(b)
Guidelines— The Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, in consultation with the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, the Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the heads of such other Federal agencies as the Secretary determines to be appropriate, and State, local, Tribal, and territorial public health officials, shall, not later than 2 years after June 24, 2019—
(1)
identify and develop a set of guidelines relating to practices and protocols for all-hazards public health emergency preparedness and response for hospitals and health care facilities to provide appropriate patient care during, in advance of, or immediately following, a public health emergency, resulting from one or more chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear agents, including emerging infectious diseases (which may include existing practices, such as trauma care and medical surge capacity and capabilities), with respect to—
(A)
a regional approach to identifying hospitals and health care facilities based on varying capabilities and capacity to treat patients affected by such emergency, including—
(i)
the manner in which the system will coordinate with and integrate the partnerships and health care coalitions established under section 247d–3b(b) of this title; and
(ii)
informing and educating appropriate first responders and health care supply chain partners of the regional emergency preparedness and response capabilities and medical surge capacity of such hospitals and health care facilities in the community;
(B)
physical and technological infrastructure, laboratory capacity, staffing, blood supply, and other supply chain needs, taking into account resiliency, geographic considerations, and rural considerations;
(C)
protocols or best practices for the safety and personal protection of workers who handle human remains and health care workers (including with respect to protective equipment and supplies, waste management processes, and decontamination), sharing of specialized experience among the health care workforce, behavioral health, psychological resilience, and training of the workforce, as applicable;
(D)
in a manner that allows for disease containment (within the meaning of section 300hh–1(b)(2)(B) of this title), coordinated medical triage, treatment, and transportation of patients, based on patient medical need (including patients in rural areas), to the appropriate hospitals or health care facilities within the regional system or, as applicable and appropriate, between systems in different States or regions; and
(E)
the needs of children and other at-risk individuals;
(2)
make such guidelines available on the internet website of the Department of Health and Human Services in a manner that does not compromise national security; and
(3)
update such guidelines as appropriate, including based on input received pursuant to subsections (c) and (e) and information resulting from applicable reports required under the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness and Advancing Innovation Act of 2019 (including any amendments made by such Act), to address new and emerging public health threats.
(c)
Considerations— In identifying, developing, and updating guidelines under subsection (b), the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response shall—
(1)
include input from hospitals and health care facilities (including health care coalitions under section 247d–3b of this title), State, local, Tribal, and territorial public health departments, and health care or subject matter experts (including experts with relevant expertise in chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear threats, including emerging infectious diseases), as the Assistant Secretary determines appropriate, to meet the goals under section 300hh–1(b)(3) of this title;
(2)
consult and engage with appropriate health care providers and professionals, including physicians, nurses, first responders, health care facilities (including hospitals, primary care clinics, community health centers, mental health facilities, ambulatory care facilities, and dental health facilities), pharmacies, emergency medical providers, trauma care providers, environmental health agencies, public health laboratories, poison control centers, blood banks, tissue banks, and other experts that the Assistant Secretary determines appropriate, to meet the goals under section 300hh–1(b)(3) of this title;
(3)
consider feedback related to financial implications for hospitals, health care facilities, public health agencies, laboratories, blood banks, tissue banks, and other entities engaged in regional preparedness planning to implement and follow such guidelines, as applicable; and
(4)
consider financial requirements and potential incentives for entities to prepare for, and respond to, public health emergencies as part of the regional health care emergency preparedness and response system.
(d)
Technical assistance— The Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, in consultation with the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health, may provide technical assistance and consultation toward meeting the guidelines described in subsection (b).
(e)
Demonstration project for regional health care preparedness and response systems—
(1)
In general— The Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response may establish a demonstration project pursuant to the development and implementation of guidelines under subsection (b) to award grants to improve medical surge capacity for all hazards, build and integrate regional medical response capabilities, improve specialty care expertise for all-hazards response, and coordinate medical preparedness and response across State, local, Tribal, territorial, and regional jurisdictions.
(2)
Sunset— The authority under this subsection shall expire on September 30, 2023.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319C–3, as added Pub. L. 116–22, title II, § 203(a), June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 911.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness and Advancing Innovation Act of 2019, referred to in subsec. (b)(3), is Pub. L. 116–22, June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 905. For complete classfication of this Act to the Code, see Short Title of 2019 Amendment note set out under section 201 of this title and Tables.

§247d–4. Facilities and capacities of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

42 U.S.C. § 247d–4

(a)
In general—
(1)
Findings— Congress finds that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has an essential role in defending against and combatting public health threats domestically and abroad and requires secure and modern facilities, and expanded, improved, and appropriately maintained capabilities related to bioterrorism and other public health emergencies, sufficient to enable such Centers to conduct this important mission.
(2)
Facilities—
(A)
In general— The Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention may design, construct, and equip new facilities, renovate existing facilities (including laboratories, laboratory support buildings, scientific communication facilities, transshipment complexes, secured and isolated parking structures, officebuildings, and other facilities and infrastructure), and upgrade security of such facilities, in order to better conduct the capacities described in section 247d–1 of this title, and for supporting public health activities.
(B)
Multiyear contracting authority— For any project of designing, constructing, equipping, or renovating any facility under subparagraph (A), the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention may enter into a single contract or related contracts that collectively include the full scope of the project, and the solicitation and contract shall contain the clause “availability of funds” found at section 52.232–18 of title 48, Code of Federal Regulations.
(3)
Improving the capacities of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention— The Secretary shall expand, improve, enhance, and appropriately maintain the capabilities of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention relating to preparedness for and responding effectively to bioterrorism and other public health emergencies, by—
(A)
expanding or enhancing the training of personnel;
(B)
improving communications facilities and networks, including delivery of necessary information to rural areas;
(C)
improving capabilities for public health surveillance and reporting activities, taking into account the integrated system or systems of public health alert communications and surveillance networks under subsection (b); and
(D)
improving laboratoryfacilities related to bioterrorism, infectious disease outbreaks, and other public health emergencies, including increasing the security of such facilities.
(4)
Study of resources for facilities and capacities— Not later than June 1, 2022, the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a study on Federal spending in fiscal years 2013 through 2018 for activities authorized under this subsection. Such study shall include a review and assessment of obligations and expenditures directly related to each activity under paragraphs (2) and (3), including a specific accounting of, and delineation between, obligations and expenditures incurred for the construction, renovation, equipping, and security upgrades of facilities and associated contracts under this subsection, and the obligations and expenditures incurred to establish and improve the situational awareness and biosurveillance network under subsection (b), and shall identify the agency or agencies incurring such obligations and expenditures.
(b)
Establishment of systems of public health communications and surveillance networks—
(1)
In general— The Secretary, directly or through awards of grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements, shall provide for the establishment of an integrated system or systems of public health alert communications and surveillance networks between and among—
(A)
Federal, State, local, and Tribal public health officials; and
(B)
public and private health-related laboratories, hospitals, poison control centers, immunization information systems, and other health care facilities;1
(2)
Requirements— The Secretary shall develop a plan to, and ensure that networks under paragraph (1) allow for the timely sharing and discussion, in a secure manner and in a form readily usable for analytical approaches, of essential, deidentified information concerning bioterrorism or another public health emergency, or recommended methods for responding to such an attack or emergency, allowing for coordination to maximize all-hazards medical and public health preparedness and response and to minimize duplication of effort. The Secretary shall ensure that the activities carried out pursuant to the previous sentence are conducted in a manner that protects personal privacy, to the extent required by applicable Federal and State information privacy or security law, at a minimum.
(3)
Standards—
(A)
In general— Not later than 1 year after June 24, 2019, the Secretary, in cooperation with health care providers, State, local, Tribal, and territorial public health officials, and relevant Federal agencies (including the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology and the National Institute of Standards and Technology), shall, as necessary, adopt technical and reporting standards, including standards for interoperability as defined by section 300jj of this title, for networks under paragraph (1) and update such standards as necessary. Such standards shall be made available on the internet website of the Department of Health and Human Services, in a manner that does not compromise national security.
(B)
Deference to standards development organizations— In adopting and implementing standards under this subsection and subsection (c), the Secretary shall give deference to standards published by standards development organizations and voluntary consensus-based standards entities.
(c)
Modernizing public health situational awareness and biosurveillance—
(1)
In general— The Secretary, in collaboration with State, local, and Tribal public health officials, shall establish, modernize, and improve as applicable and appropriate, a near real-time electronic nationwide public health situational awareness capability through an interoperable network of systems to share data and information that is deidentified, as applicable, to enhance early detection of, rapid response to, and management of, potentially catastrophic infectious disease outbreaks, novel emerging threats, and other public health emergencies that originate domestically or abroad. Such network shall be built on existing State situational awareness systems or enhanced systems that enable such interoperability, to the extent practicable. The Secretary shall ensure that the activities carried out pursuant to this paragraph are conducted in a manner that protects personal privacy, to the extent required by applicable Federal and State information privacy or security law, at a minimum.
(2)
Coordination and consultation— In establishing and improving the network under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall—
(A)
facilitate coordination among agencies within the Department of Health and Human Services that provide, or have the potential to provide, information and data to, and analyses for, the situational awareness and biosurveillance network under paragraph (1), including coordination among relevant agencies related to health care services, the facilitation of health informationexchange (including the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology), and public health emergency preparedness and response; and
(B)
consult with the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of Commerce (and the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology), the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and the heads of other Federal agencies, as the Secretary determines appropriate.
(3)
Elements—
(A)
In general— The network described in paragraph (1) shall include data and information transmitted in a standardized format from—
(i)
State, local, and Tribal public health entities, including public health laboratories;
(ii)
Federal health agencies;
(iii)
zoonotic disease monitoring systems; and
(iv)
public and private sector health care entities, hospitals, pharmacies, poison control centers or professional organizations in the field of poison control, immunization information systems, community health centers, health centers, clinical laboratories, and public environmental health agencies, to the extent practicable and provided that such data are voluntarily provided simultaneously to the Secretary and appropriate State, local, and Tribal public health agencies.
(B)
Review— Not later than 2 years after June 24, 2019, and every 6 years thereafter, the Secretary shall conduct a review of the elements described in subparagraph (A). Such review shall include a discussion of the addition of any elements pursuant to clause (v), including elements added to advancing new technologies, and identify any challenges in the incorporation of elements under subparagraph (A), and make recommendations to improve the quality of data collected pursuant to subparagraph (A) to ensure complete, accurate, and timely sharing of such data, as appropriate, across such elements as described in subparagraph (A). The Secretary shall provide such review to the congressional committees of jurisdiction.
(4)
Rule of construction— Paragraph (3) shall not be construed as requiring separate reporting of data and information from each source listed.
(5)
Required activities—
(A)
In general— In establishing, operating, and updating, as appropriate, the network described in paragraph (1), the Secretary shall—
(i)
utilize applicable interoperability standards as adopted by the Secretary, and in consultation with the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology and the National Institute of Standards and Technology, through a joint public and private sector process;
(ii)
define minimal data elements for such network;
(iii)
in collaboration with State, local, and Tribal public health officials, integrate and build upon existing State, local, and Tribal capabilities, ensuring simultaneous sharing of data, information, and analyses that is deidentified, as applicable, from the network described in paragraph (1) with State, local, and Tribal public health agencies in accordance with applicable Federal and State privacy and security law;
(iv)
in collaboration with State, local, and Tribal public health officials, develop procedures and standards for the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data that States, regions, or other entities collect and report to the network described in paragraph (1);
(v)
pilot test standards and implementation specifications, consistent with the process described in section 300jj–12(b)(3)(C) of this title, which State, local, Tribal, and territorial public health entities may utilize, on a voluntary basis, as a part of the network; and
(vi)
in collaboration with State, local, and Tribal public health officials, integrate and update applicable existing public health data systems and networks of the Department of Health and Human Services to reflect technological advancements, consistent with section 300hh–33 of this title, as applicable.
(B)
Public meeting—
(i)
In general— Not later than 180 days after June 24, 2019, and 180 days after December 29, 2022, the Secretary shall convene a public meeting for purposes of discussing and providing input on the potential goals, functions, and uses of the network described in paragraph (1) and incorporating the elements described in paragraph (3)(A).
(ii)
Experts— The public meeting shall include representatives of relevant Federal agencies (including representatives from the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology and the National Institute of Standards and Technology); State, local, Tribal, and territorial public health officials; stakeholders with expertise in biosurveillance and situational awareness; stakeholders with expertise in capabilities relevant to biosurveillance and situational awareness, such as experts in informatics and data analytics (including experts in prediction, modeling, or forecasting); experts in State-based public health data systems; experts in standards and implementation specifications, including transaction standards; and experts in privacy and data security.
(iii)
Topics— Such public meeting shall include a discussion of—
(I)
data elements, including minimal or essential data elements, that are voluntarily provided for such network, which may include elements from public health and public and private health care entities, to the extent practicable;
(II)
standards and implementation specifications that may improve the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data during a public health emergency;
(III)
strategies to encourage the access, exchange, and use of information;
(IV)
considerations for State, local, Tribal, and territorial capabilities and infrastructure related to data exchange and interoperability, including existing public health data systems;
(V)
privacy and security protections provided at the Federal, State, local, Tribal, and territorial levels, and by nongovernmental stakeholders;
(VI)
opportunities for the incorporation of innovative technologies to improve the network;
(VII)
strategies to integrate laboratory and public health data systems and capabilities to support rapid and accurate reporting of laboratory test results and associated relevant data;
(VIII)
strategies to improve the collection, reporting, and dissemination of relevant, aggregated, deidentified demographic data to inform responses to public health emergencies, including identification of at-risk populations and to address potential health disparities; and
(IX)
strategies to improve the electronic exchange of health information, as appropriate, between State and local health departments and health care providers and facilities to improve the detection of, and responses to, potentially catastrophic infectious disease outbreaks.
(6)
Strategy and implementation plan—
(A)
In general— Not later than 18 months after June 24, 2019, and every 5 years thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the congressional committees of jurisdiction a coordinated strategy and an accompanying implementation plan that—
(i)
is informed by the public meeting under paragraph (5)(B);
(ii)
includes a review and assessment of existing capabilities of the network and related infrastructure, including input provided by the public meeting under paragraph (5)(B);
(iii)
identifies and demonstrates the measurable steps the Secretary will carry out to—
(I)
develop, implement, and evaluate the network described in paragraph (1), utilizing elements described in paragraph (3)(A);
(II)
modernize and enhance biosurveillance activities, including strategies to include innovative technologies and analytical approaches (including prediction and forecasting for pandemics and all-hazards) from public and private entities;
(III)
improve information sharing, coordination, and communication among disparate biosurveillance systems supported by the Department of Health and Human Services, including the identification of methods to improve accountability, better utilize resources and workforce capabilities, and incorporate innovative technologies within and across agencies;
(IV)
test and evaluate capabilities of the interoperable network of systems to improve situational awareness and biosurveillance capabilities;
(V)
improve coordination and collaboration, as appropriate, with other Federal departments to improve the capabilities of the network and reduce administrative burden on State, local, and Tribal entities; and
(VI)
implement applicable lessons learned from recent public health emergencies to address gaps in situational awareness and biosurveillance capabilities;
(iv)
includes performance measures and the metrics by which performance measures will be assessed with respect to the measurable steps under clause (iii);
(v)
establishes dates by which each measurable step under clause (iii) will be implemented, including a description of how such steps will further the goals of the network, consistent with paragraph (1); and
(vi)
identifies and demonstrates measurable steps the Secretary will take to further develop and integrate infectious disease detection, support rapid, accurate, and secure sharing of laboratory test results, deidentified as appropriate, during a public health emergency, and improve coordination and collaboration with State, local, and Tribal public health officials, clinical laboratories, and other entities with expertise in public health surveillance.
(B)
Annual budget plan— Not later than 2 years after June 24, 2019, and on an annual basis thereafter, in accordance with the strategy and implementation plan under this paragraph, the Secretary shall, taking into account recommendations provided by the National Biodefense Science Board, develop a budget plan based on the strategy and implementation plan under this section. Such budget plan shall include—
(i)
a summary of resources previously expended to establish, improve, and utilize the nationwide public health situational awareness and biosurveillance network under paragraph (1);
(ii)
estimates of costs and resources needed to establish and improve the network under paragraph (1) according to the strategy and implementation plan under subparagraph (A);
(iii)
the identification of gaps and inefficiencies in nationwide public health situational awareness and biosurveillance capabilities, resources, and authorities needed to address such gaps; and
(iv)
a strategy to minimize and address such gaps and improve inefficiencies.
(7)
Consultation with the National Biodefense Science Board— In carrying out this section and consistent with section 247d–7g of this title, the National Biodefense Science Board shall provide expert advice and guidance, including recommendations, regarding the measurable steps the Secretary should take to modernize and enhance biosurveillance activities pursuant to the efforts of the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure comprehensive, real-time, all-hazardsbiosurveillance capabilities. In complying with the preceding sentence, the National Biodefense Science Board shall—
(A)
identify the steps necessary to achieve a national biosurveillance system for human health (taking into account zoonotic disease, including gaps in scientific understanding of the interactions between human, animal, and environmental health), with international connectivity, where appropriate, that is predicated on State, regional, and community level capabilities and creates a networked system to allow for two-way information flow between and among Federal, State, and local government public health authorities and clinical health care providers;
(B)
identify any duplicative surveillance programs and gaps in surveillance programs under the authority of the Secretary, or changes that are necessary to existing programs, in order to enhance and modernize such activities, minimize duplication, strengthen and streamline such activities under the authority of the Secretary, and achieve real-time and appropriate data that relate to disease activity, both human and zoonotic;
(C)
coordinate with applicable existing advisory committees of the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including such advisory committees consisting of representatives from State, local, and Tribal public health authorities and appropriate public and private sector health care entities, animal health organizations related to zoonotic disease, and academic institutions, in order to provide guidance on public health surveillance activities; and
(D)
provide recommendations to the Secretary on policies and procedures to complete the steps described in this paragraph in a manner that is consistent with section 300hh–1 of this title.
(8)
Situational awareness and biosurveillance as a national security priority— The Secretary, on a periodic basis as applicable and appropriate, shall meet with the Director of National Intelligence to inform the development and capabilities of the nationwide public health situational awareness and biosurveillance network.
(9)
Rules of construction—
(A)
Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to supplant, in whole or in part, State, local, or Tribal activities or responsibilities related to public health surveillance.
(B)
Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to alter the authority of the Secretary with respect to the types of data the Secretary may receive through systems supported or established under this section.
(d)
State and regional systems to enhance situational awareness in public health emergencies—
(1)
In general— To implement the network described in subsection (c), the Secretary may award grants to States or consortia of States to enhance the ability of such States or consortia of States to establish or operate a coordinated public health situational awareness system for regional or Statewide early detection of, rapid response to, and management of potentially catastrophic infectious disease outbreaks and public health emergencies, in collaboration with appropriate public health agencies, environmental health agencies, sentinel hospitals, clinical laboratories, pharmacies, poison control centers, immunization programs, other health care organizations, and animal health organizations within such States.
(2)
Eligibility— To be eligible to receive a grant under paragraph (1), the State or consortium of States shall submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require, including an assurance that the State or consortium of States will submit to the Secretary
(A)
reports of such deidentified data, information, and metrics as the Secretary may require, in consultation with such State or consortium of States;
(B)
a report on the effectiveness of the systems funded under the grant;
(C)
a description of the manner in which grant funds will be used to enhance the timelines and comprehensiveness of efforts to detect, respond to, and manage potentially catastrophic infectious disease outbreaks and public health emergencies, including any public-private partnerships or other partnerships entered into to improve such capacity; and
(D)
an implementation plan that may include measurable steps to achieve the purposes described in paragraph (1).
(3)
Use of funds— A State or consortium of States that receives an award under this subsection—
(A)
shall establish, enhance, or operate a coordinated public health situational awareness system for regional or Statewide early detection of, rapid response to, and management of potentially catastrophic infectious disease outbreaks and public health emergencies;
(B)
may award grants or contracts to entities described in paragraph (1) within or serving such State to assist such entities in improving the operation of information technology systems, facilitating the secure exchange of data and information, and training personnel to enhance the operation of the system described in subparagraph (A); and
(C)
may conduct a pilot program for the development of multi-State telehealth network test beds that build on, enhance, and securely link existing State and local telehealth programs to prepare for, monitor, respond to, and manage the events of public health emergencies, facilitate coordination and communication among medical, public health, and emergency response agencies, and provide medical services through telehealth initiatives within the States that are involved in such a multi-State telehealth network test bed.
(4)
Limitation— Information technology systems acquired or implemented using grants awarded under this section must be compliant with—
(A)
interoperability and other technological standards, as determined by the Secretary; and
(B)
data collection and reporting requirements for the network described in subsection (c).
(5)
Technical assistance— The Secretary may provide technical assistance to States, localities, Tribes, and territories or a consortium of States, localities, Tribes, and territories receiving an award under this subsection regarding interoperability and the technical standards set forth by the Secretary.
(6)
Non-duplication of effort— The Secretary shall ensure that activities carried out under an award under this subsection do not unnecessarily duplicate efforts of other agencies and offices within the Department of Health and Human Services.
(e)
Personnel authorities—
(1)
Specially qualified personnel— In addition to any other personnel authorities, to carry out subsections (b) and (c), the Secretary may—
(A)
appoint highly qualified individuals to scientific or professional positions at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, not to exceed 30 such employees at any time (specific to positions authorized by this subsection), with expertise in capabilities relevant to biosurveillance and situational awareness, such as experts in informatics and data analytics (including experts in prediction, modeling, or forecasting), and other related scientific or technical fields; and
(B)
compensate individuals appointed under subparagraph (A) in the same manner and subject to the same terms and conditions in which individuals appointed under 99032 of title 5 are compensated, without regard to the provisions of chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of such title relating to classification and General Schedule pay rates.
(2)
Limitations— The Secretary shall exercise the authority under paragraph (1) in a manner that is consistent with the limitations described in section 247d–6a(e)(2) of this title.
(f)
Timeline— The Secretary shall accomplish the purposes under subsections (b) and (c) no later than September 30, 2023, and shall provide a justification to the congressional committees of jurisdiction for any missed or delayed implementation of measurable steps identified under subsection (c)(6)(A)(iii).
(g)
Independent evaluation— Not later than 3 years after June 24, 2019, the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct an independent evaluation and submit to the Secretary and the congressional committees of jurisdiction a report concerning the activities conducted under subsections (b) and (c), and provide recommendations, as applicable and appropriate, on necessary improvements to the biosurveillance and situational awareness network.
(h)
Authorization of appropriations— There are authorized to be appropriated—
(1)
to carry out subsection (a), $25,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 and 2023; and
(2)
to carry out subsections (b), (c), and (d), $136,800,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 and 2023.
(i)
Definition— For purposes of this section the term “biosurveillance” means the process of gathering near real-time biological data that relates to human and zoonotic disease activity and threats to human or animal health, in order to achieve early warning and identification of such health threats, early detection and prompt ongoing tracking of health events, and overall situational awareness of disease activity.

Footnotes

  1. 1 So in original.
  2. 2 So in original. Probably should be preceded by “section”.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319D, as added Pub. L. 106–505, title I, § 102, Nov. 13, 2000, 114 Stat. 2318; amended Pub. L. 107–188, title I, § 103, June 12, 2002, 116 Stat. 603; Pub. L. 109–417, title II, §§ 202, 204(b)(2), Dec. 19, 2006, 120 Stat. 2845, 2851; Pub. L. 113–5, title II, § 204(a), Mar. 13, 2013, 127 Stat. 177; Pub. L. 116–22, title II, § 205(a), (b), June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 918, 924; Pub. L. 117–328, div. FF, title II, § 2211, Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 5729.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2022—Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(8), substituted “Tribal” for “tribal” wherever appearing.

Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(1)(A), substituted “emergencies, by” for “emergencies. Activities that may be carried out under the preceding sentence include” in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (a)(3)(D). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(1)(B), inserted “, infectious disease outbreaks,” after “bioterrorism”.

Subsec. (b)(1)(A). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(2)(A)(i)(I), substituted “, local, and Tribal” for “, and local”.

Subsec. (b)(1)(C). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(2)(A)(i)(II)–(iii), struck out subpar. (C) which read as follows: “any other entities determined appropriate by the Secretary.”

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(2)(B), inserted “, deidentified” before “information” and “The Secretary shall ensure that the activities carried out pursuant to the previous sentence are conducted in a manner that protects personal privacy, to the extent required by applicable Federal and State information privacy or security law, at a minimum.” at end.

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(3)(A), inserted “modernize,” after “establish,”, “that is deidentified, as applicable,” after “share data and information”, “, to the extent practicable” after “interoperability”, and “The Secretary shall ensure that the activities carried out pursuant to this paragraph are conducted in a manner that protects personal privacy, to the extent required by applicable Federal and State information privacy or security law, at a minimum.” at end.

Subsec. (c)(3)(A)(v). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(3)(B)(i), struck out cl. (v) which read as follows: “such other sources as the Secretary may deem appropriate.”

Subsec. (c)(3)(B). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(3)(B)(ii), inserted “, and make recommendations to improve the quality of data collected pursuant to subparagraph (A) to ensure complete, accurate, and timely sharing of such data, as appropriate, across such elements as described in subparagraph (A)” after “under subparagraph (A)”.

Subsec. (c)(5)(A). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(3)(C)(i)(I), substituted “, operating, and updating, as appropriate,” for “and operating” in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (c)(5)(A)(iii). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(3)(C)(i)(II), inserted “that is deidentified, as applicable,” after “analyses” and “in accordance with applicable Federal and State privacy and security law” after “agencies”.

Subsec. (c)(5)(A)(vi). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(3)(C)(i)(III)–(V), added cl. (vi).

Subsec. (c)(5)(B)(i). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(3)(C)(ii)(I), inserted “and 180 days after December 29, 2022,” after “June 24, 2019,”.

Subsec. (c)(5)(B)(ii). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(3)(C)(ii)(II), substituted “experts in State-based public health data systems; experts in standards and implementation specifications, including transaction standards; and experts in privacy and data security” for “and other representatives as the Secretary determines appropriate”.

Subsec. (c)(5)(B)(iii)(IV). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(3)(C)(ii)(III)(aa), inserted “, including existing public health data systems” after “interoperability”.

Subsec. (c)(5)(B)(iii)(VII) to (IX). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(3)(C)(ii)(III)(bb)–(dd), added subcls. (VII) to (IX).

Subsec. (c)(6)(A). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(3)(D)(i), inserted “and every 5 years thereafter,” after “June 24, 2019,” in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (c)(6)(A)(iii)(V), (VI). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(3)(D)(ii), added subcls. (V) and (VI).

Subsec. (c)(6)(A)(v). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(3)(D)(iv), substituted “, including a description of how such steps will further the goals of the network, consistent with paragraph (1); and” for period at end.

Subsec. (c)(6)(A)(vi). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(3)(D)(iii), (v), added cl. (vi).

Subsec. (c)(9). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(3)(E), added par. (9).

Subsec. (d)(2)(A). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(4)(A)(i), inserted “deidentified” before “data, information” and “, in consultation with such State or consortium of States” after “require”.

Subsec. (d)(2)(C). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(4)(A)(ii), inserted “, including any public-private partnerships or other partnerships entered into to improve such capacity” after “emergencies”.

Subsec. (d)(6). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(4)(B), added par. (6).

Subsecs. (e) to (g). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(5), (6), redesignated subsecs. (f) to (h) as (e) to (g), respectively, and struck out former subsec. (e) which related to telehealth enhancements for emergency response.

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(7), added subsec. (h) and struck out former subsec. (h). Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section, $161,800,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2023.”

Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(6), redesignated subsec. (i) as (h).

Subsecs. (i), (j). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2211(6), redesignated subsecs. (i) and (j) as (h) and (i), respectively.

2019—Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(1), substituted “Facilities and capacities of” for “Revitalizing” in section catchline.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(2)(A), substituted “In general” for “Facilities; capacities” in heading.

Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(2)(B), substituted “, improved, and appropriately maintained” for “and improved”.

Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(2)(C), substituted “expand, improve, enhance, and appropriately maintain” for “expand, enhance, and improve” in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (a)(4). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(2)(D), added par. (4).

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(3)(A), substituted “Establishment of systems of public health” for “National” in heading.

Subsec. (b)(1)(B). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(3)(B), inserted “immunization information systems,” after “centers,”.

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(3)(C), inserted “develop a plan to, and” after “The Secretary shall” and “and in a form readily usable for analytical approaches” after “in a secure manner”.

Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(3)(D), amended par. (3) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “Not later than one year after June 12, 2002, the Secretary, in cooperation with health care providers and State and local public health officials, shall establish any additional technical and reporting standards (including standards for interoperability) for networks under paragraph (1) and update such standards as necessary.”

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(4)(A), substituted “The Secretary” for “Not later than 2 years after March 13, 2013, the Secretary” and “such interoperability” for “such connectivity” and inserted “, and improve as applicable and appropriate,” after “shall establish” and a comma after “detection of”.

Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(4)(B), amended par. (2) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (2) related to a coordinated strategy and an accompanying implementation plan.

Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(4)(C), designated existing provisions as subpar. (A) and inserted heading; redesignated former subpars. (A) to (E) as cls. (i) to (v), respectively, of subpar. (A) and realigned margins; in cl. (iv), inserted “immunization information systems,” after “poison control,” and substituted “, clinical laboratories, and public environmental health agencies” for “and clinical laboratories”; and added subpar. (B).

Subsec. (c)(5)(A). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(4)(D)(i), (ii), designated existing provisions as subpar. (A), inserted heading, redesignated former subpars. (A) to (D) as (i) to (iv), respectively, of subpar. (A) and realigned margins.

Subsec. (c)(5)(A)(i). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(4)(D)(iv)(I), substituted “as adopted” for “as determined” and inserted “and the National Institute of Standards and Technology” after “Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology”.

Subsec. (c)(5)(A)(v). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(4)(D)(iv)(II)–(IV), added cl. (v).

Subsec. (c)(5)(B). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(4)(D)(iii), added subpar. (B). Former subpar. (B) redesignated cl. (ii) of subpar. (A).

Subsec. (c)(6). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(4)(F), added par. (6). Former par. (6) redesignated (7).

Subsec. (c)(7). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(4)(E), redesignated par. (6) as (7).

Subsec. (c)(7)(A). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(4)(G)(i), inserted “(taking into account zoonotic disease, including gaps in scientific understanding of the interactions between human, animal, and environmental health)” after “human health”.

Subsec. (c)(7)(B). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(4)(G)(ii), inserted “and gaps in surveillance programs” after “surveillance programs” and substituted “zoonotic;” for “zoonotic; and”.

Subsec. (c)(7)(C). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(4)(G)(iii), inserted “, animal health organizations related to zoonotic disease,” after “health care entities” and substituted “activities; and” for “activities.”

Subsec. (c)(7)(D). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(4)(G)(iv), added subpar. (D).

Subsec. (c)(8). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(4)(H), added par. (8).

Subsec. (d)(1). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(5)(A), inserted “environmental health agencies,” after “public health agencies,” and “immunization programs,” after “poison control centers,”.

Subsec. (d)(2)(D). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(5)(B), added subpar. (D).

Subsec. (d)(5). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(5)(C), added par. (5) and struck out former par. (5) which required an independent evaluation and report from the Government Accountability Office no later than 3 years after Mar. 13, 2013.

Subsecs. (f) to (h). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(7), added subsecs. (f) to (h). Former subsecs. (f) and (g) redesignated (i) and (j), respectively.

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(6), (b), redesignated subsec. (f) as (i) and substituted “$161,800,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2023” for “$138,300,000 for each of fiscal years 2014 through 2018”.

Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 116–22, § 205(a)(6), redesignated subsec. (g) as (j).

2013—Subsec. (b)(1)(B). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(1)(A), inserted “poison control centers,” after “hospitals,”.

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(1)(B), inserted “, allowing for coordination to maximize all-hazards medical and public health preparedness and response and to minimize duplication of effort” before period at end.

Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(1)(C), inserted “and update such standards as necessary” before period at end.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(4)(A), substituted “Modernizing public health situational awareness and biosurveillance” for “Public health situational awareness” in heading.

Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(2), (3), redesignated subsec. (d) as (c) and struck out former subsec. (c) which related to authorization of appropriations for fiscal years 2002 through 2006.

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(4)(B), substituted “March 13, 2013” for “December 19, 2006” and inserted “, novel emerging threats,” after “disease outbreaks”.

Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(4)(C), added par. (2) and struck out former par. (2). Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “Not later than 180 days after December 19, 2006, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress, a strategic plan that demonstrates the steps the Secretary will undertake to develop, implement, and evaluate the network described in paragraph (1), utilizing the elements described in paragraph (3).”

Subsec. (c)(3)(D). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(4)(D), inserted “community health centers, health centers” after “of poison control,”.

Subsec. (c)(5)(A). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(4)(E), added subpar. (A) and struck out former subpar. (A) which read as follows: “utilize applicable interoperability standards as determined by the Secretary through a joint public and private sector process;”.

Subsec. (c)(6). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(4)(F), added par. (6).

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(3), redesignated subsec. (e) as (d). Former subsec. (d) redesignated (c).

Subsec. (d)(1), (4)(B). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(5)(A), (B), substituted “subsection (c)” for “subsection (d)”.

Subsec. (d)(5). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(5)(C), substituted “3 years after March 13, 2013” for “4 years after December 19, 2006” and “subsection (c)” for “subsection (d)”.

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(3), redesignated subsec. (f) as (e). Former subsec. (e) redesignated (d).

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(3), (6), redesignated subsec. (g) as (f) and substituted “$138,300,000 for each of fiscal years 2014 through 2018” for “such sums as may be necessary in each of fiscal years 2007 through 2011”. Former subsec. (f) redesignated (e).

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 113–5, § 204(a)(7), added subsec. (g). Former subsec. (g) redesignated (f).

2006—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 109–417, § 202(1), inserted “domestically and abroad” after “public health threats”.

Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 109–417, § 204(b)(2), struck out “, taking into account evaluations under section 247d–2(a) of this title,” after “The Secretary” in introductory provisions.

Subsecs. (d) to (g). Pub. L. 109–417, § 202(2), added subsecs. (d) to (g).

2002—Pub. L. 107–188 reenacted section catchline without change and amended text generally, substituting detailed provisions relating to facilities, capacities, and national communications and surveillance networks for provisions relating to findings of need for secure and modern facilities.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Working Capital Fund

Pub. L. 113–76, div. H, title II, Jan. 17, 2014, 128 Stat. 368, provided in part: “That to facilitate the implementation of the permanent Working Capital Fund (‘WCF’) authorized under this heading [cdc-wide activities and program support] in division F of Public Law 112–74 [see note below], on or after enactment of this Act [Jan. 17, 2014], unobligated balances of amounts appropriated for business services for fiscal year 2013 shall be transferred to the WCF: Provided further, That on or after enactment of this Act, CDC shall transfer amounts available for business services to other CDC appropriations consistent with the benefit each appropriation received from the business services appropriation in fiscal year 2013: Provided further, That once the WCF is implemented in fiscal year 2014, assets purchased in any prior fiscal year with funds appropriated for or reimbursed to business services may be transferred to the WCF and customers billed for depreciation of those assets: Provided further, That CDC shall, consistent with the authorities provided in 42 U.S.C. 231, ensure that the WCF is used only for administrative support services and not for programmatic activities: Provided further, That CDC shall notify the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than 15 days prior to any transfers made with funds provided under this heading.”

Similar provisions were contained in the following prior appropriation act:

Pub. L. 113–6, div. F, title V, § 1507, Mar. 26, 2013, 127 Stat. 423.

Pub. L. 112–74, div. F, title II, Dec. 23, 2011, 125 Stat. 1070, provided in part: “That CDC [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] may establish a Working Capital Fund, with the authorities equivalent to those provided in 42 U.S.C. 231, to improve the provision of supplies and service.”

§247d–4a. Infectious Diseases Rapid Response Reserve Fund

42 U.S.C. § 247d–4a

There is established in the Treasury a reserve fund to be known as the “Infectious Diseases Rapid Response Reserve Fund” (the “Reserve Fund”): Provided, That of the funds provided under the heading “CDC-Wide Activities and Program Support” [132 Stat. 3073], $50,000,000, to remain available until expended, shall be available to the Director of the CDC for deposit in the Reserve Fund: Provided further, That amounts in the Reserve Fund shall be for carrying out titles II, III, and XVII of the PHS Act [42 U.S.C. 201 et seq., 241 et seq., 300u et seq.] to prevent, prepare for, or respond to an infectious disease emergency, including, in connection with such activities, to purchase or lease and provide for the insurance of passenger motor vehicles for official use in foreign countries: Provided further, That amounts in the Reserve Fund may only be provided for an infectious disease emergency if the infectious disease emergency (1) is declared by the Secretary of Health and Human Services under section 319 of the PHS Act [42 U.S.C. 247d] to be a public health emergency; or (2) as determined by the Secretary, has significant potential to imminently occur and potential, on occurrence, to affect national security or the health and security of United States citizens, domestically or internationally: Provided further, That amounts in the Reserve Fund may be transferred by the Director of the CDC to other accounts of the CDC, to accounts of the NIH, or to the Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund, to be merged with such accounts or Fund for the purposes provided in this section: Provided further, That the Director shall provide to the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate, at least 7 days in advance of any transfer or obligation of funds made under the authority provided in this section, both a notification on the anticipated uses of funds by program, project, or activity; and a detailed spend plan of anticipated uses of funds, including estimated personnel and administrative costs, disaggregated by program, project, or activity: Provided further, That such spend plans shall be updated to include all applicable obligations to date and unobligated amounts and submitted quarterly to such Committees on Appropriations until such funds are fully expended: Provided further, That amounts in the Reserve Fund shall be in addition to amounts otherwise available to the Department of Health and Human Services for the purposes provided in this section: Provided further, That the transfer authorities in this section are in addition to any transfer authority otherwise available to the Department of Health and Human Services: Provided further, That products purchased using amounts in the Reserve Fund may, at the discretion of the Secretary of Health and Human Services, be deposited in the Strategic National Stockpile under section 319F–2 of the PHS Act [42 U.S.C. 247d–6b]: Provided further, That this section shall be in effect as of September 28, 2018, through each fiscal year hereafter.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(Pub. L. 115–245, div. B, title II, § 231, Sept. 28, 2018, 132 Stat. 3095; Pub. L. 118–47, div. D, title II, § 236, Mar. 23, 2024, 138 Stat. 680.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

CDC and NIH, referred to in text, mean the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health, respectively.

The PHS Act, referred to in text, means the Public Health Service Act, act July 1, 1944, ch. 373, 58 Stat. 682. Titles II, III, and XVII of the Act are classified generally to subchapters I (§ 201 et seq.), II (§ 241 et seq.), and XV (§ 300u et seq.), respectively, of this chapter. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 201 of this title and Tables.

Codification

Section was enacted as part of the Department of Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 2019, and also as part of the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019, and the Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, 2019 and Continuing Appropriations Act, 2019, and not as part of the Public Health Service Act which comprises this chapter.

Amendments

2024—Pub. L. 118–47 substituted “Provided further, That the Director shall provide to the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate, at least 7 days in advance of any transfer or obligation of funds made under the authority provided in this section, both a notification on the anticipated uses of funds by program, project, or activity; and a detailed spend plan of anticipated uses of funds, including estimated personnel and administrative costs, disaggregated by program, project, or activity: Provided further, That such spend plans shall be updated to include all applicable obligations to date and unobligated amounts and submitted quarterly to such Committees on Appropriations until such funds are fully expended:” for “Provided further, That the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate shall be notified in advance of any transfer or obligation made under the authority provided in this section, including notification on the anticipated uses of such funds by program, project, or activity: Provided further, That not later than 15 days after notification of the planned use of the Reserve Fund, the Director shall provide a detailed spend plan of anticipated uses of funds, including estimated personnel and administrative costs, to the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate: Provided further, That such plans shall be updated and submitted every 90 days thereafter until funds have been fully expended which should include the unobligated balances in the Reserve Fund and all the actual obligations incurred to date:”.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Reports Required

Pub. L. 116–136, div. B, title VIII, Mar. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 555, which provided in part that the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, would provide a report to the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate every 14 days, for one year from the date from any such declaration or determination described in the third proviso of section 247d–4a of this title, that detailed commitment and obligation information for the Infectious Diseases Rapid Response Reserve Fund during the prior two weeks, was repealed by Pub. L. 118–47, div. D, title II, § 237, Mar. 23, 2024, 138 Stat. 681.

§247d–4b. Children’s Preparedness Unit

42 U.S.C. § 247d–4b

(a)
Enhancing emergency preparedness for children— The Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (referred to in this subsection as the “Director”), shall maintain an internal team of experts, to be known as the Children’s Preparedness Unit (referred to in this subsection as the “Unit”), to work collaboratively to provide guidance on the considerations for, and the specific needs of, children before, during, and after public health emergencies. The Unit shall inform the Director regarding emergency preparedness and response efforts pertaining to children at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
(b)
Expertise— The team described in subsection (a) shall include one or more pediatricians, which may be a developmental-behavioral pediatrician, and may also include behavioral scientists, child psychologists, epidemiologists, biostatisticians, health communications staff, and individuals with other areas of expertise, as the Secretary determines appropriate.
(c)
Duties— The team described in subsection (a) may—
(1)
assist State, local, Tribal, and territorial emergency planning and response activities related to children, which may include developing, identifying, and sharing best practices;
(2)
provide technical assistance, training, and consultation to Federal, State, local, Tribal, and territorial public health officials to improve preparedness and response capabilities with respect to the needs of children, including providing such technical assistance, training, and consultation to eligible entities in order to support the achievement of measurable evidence-based benchmarks and objective standards applicable to sections 247d–3a and 247d–3b of this title;
(3)
improve the utilization of methods to incorporate the needs of children in planning for and responding to a public health emergency, including public awareness of such methods;
(4)
coordinate with, and improve, public-private partnerships, such as health care coalitions pursuant to sections 247d–3b and 247d–3c of this title, to address gaps and inefficiencies in emergency preparedness and response efforts for children;
(5)
provide expertise and input during the development of guidance and clinical recommendations to address the needs of children when preparing for, and responding to, public health emergencies, including pursuant to section 247d–3c of this title; and
(6)
carry out other duties related to preparedness and response activities for children, as the Secretary determines appropriate.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319D–1, as added Pub. L. 116–22, title III, § 304, June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 936.)

§247d–5. Combating antimicrobial resistance

42 U.S.C. § 247d–5

(a)
Task force—
(1)
In general— The Secretary shall establish an Antimicrobial Resistance Task Force to provide advice and recommendations to the Secretary and coordinate Federal programs relating to antimicrobial resistance. The Secretary may appoint or select a committee, or other organization in existence as of November 13, 2000, to serve as such a task force, if such committee, or other organization meets the requirements of this section.
(2)
Members of task force— The task force described in paragraph (1) shall be composed of representatives from such Federal agencies, and shall seek input from public health constituencies, manufacturers, veterinary and medical professional societies and others, as determined to be necessary by the Secretary, to develop and implement a comprehensive plan to address the public health threat of antimicrobial resistance.
(3)
Agenda—
(A)
In general— The task force described in paragraph (1) shall consider factors the Secretary considers appropriate, including—
(i)
public health factors contributing to increasing antimicrobial resistance;
(ii)
public health needs to detect and monitor antimicrobial resistance;
(iii)
detection, prevention, and control strategies for resistant pathogens;
(iv)
the need for improved information and data collection;
(v)
the assessment of the risk imposed by pathogens presenting a threat to the public health; and
(vi)
any other issues which the Secretary determines are relevant to antimicrobial resistance.
(B)
Detection and control— The Secretary, in consultation with the task force described in paragraph (1) and State and local public health officials, shall—
(i)
develop, improve, coordinate or enhance participation in a surveillance plan to detect and monitor emerging antimicrobial resistance; and
(ii)
develop, improve, coordinate or enhance participation in an integrated information system to assimilate, analyze, and exchange antimicrobial resistance data between public health departments.
(4)
Meetings— The task force described under paragraph (1) shall convene not less than twice a year, or more frequently as the Secretary determines to be appropriate.
(b)
Research and development of new antimicrobial drugs and diagnostics— The Secretary and the Director of Agricultural Research Services, consistent with the recommendations of the task force established under subsection (a), shall directly or through awards of grants or cooperative agreements to public or private entities provide for the conduct of research, investigations, experiments, demonstrations, and studies in the health sciences that are related to—
(1)
the development of new therapeutics, including vaccines and antimicrobials, against resistant pathogens;
(2)
the development or testing of medical diagnostics to detect pathogens resistant to antimicrobials;
(3)
the epidemiology, mechanisms, and pathogenesis of antimicrobial resistance;
(4)
the sequencing of the genomes, or other DNA analysis, or other comparative analysis, of priority pathogens (as determined by the Director of the National Institutes of Health in consultation with the task force established under subsection (a)), in collaboration and coordination with the activities of the Department of Defense and the Joint Genome Institute of the Department of Energy; and
(5)
other relevant research areas.
(c)
Education of medical and public health personnel— The Secretary, after consultation with the Assistant Secretary for Health, the Surgeon General, the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, the Director of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, members of the task force described in subsection (a), professional organizations and societies, and such other public health officials as may be necessary, shall—
(1)
develop and implement educational programs to increase the awareness of the general public with respect to the public health threat of antimicrobial resistance and the appropriate use of antibiotics;
(2)
develop and implement educational programs to instruct health care professionals in the prudent use of antibiotics; and
(3)
develop and implement programs to train laboratory personnel in the recognition or identification of resistance in pathogens.
(d)
Grants—
(1)
In general— The Secretary shall award competitive grants to eligible entities to enable such entities to increase the capacity to detect, monitor, and combat antimicrobial resistance.
(2)
Eligible entities— Eligible entities for grants under paragraph (1) shall be State or local public health agencies, Indian tribes or tribal organizations, or other public or private nonprofit entities.
(3)
Use of funds— An eligible entity receiving a grant under paragraph (1) shall use funds from such grant for activities that are consistent with the factors identified by the task force under subsection (a)(3), which may include activities that—
(A)
provide training to enable such entity to identify patterns of resistance rapidly and accurately;
(B)
develop, improve, coordinate or enhance participation in information systems by which data on resistant infections can be shared rapidly among relevant national, State, and local health agencies and health care providers; and
(C)
develop and implement policies to control the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
(e)
Grants for demonstration programs—
(1)
In general— The Secretary shall award competitive grants to eligible entities to establish demonstration programs to promote judicious use of antimicrobial drugs or control the spread of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens.
(2)
Eligible entities— Eligible entities for grants under paragraph (1) may include hospitals, clinics, institutions of long-term care, professional medical societies, schools or programs that train medical laboratory personnel, or other public or private nonprofit entities.
(3)
Technical assistance— The Secretary shall provide appropriate technical assistance to eligible entities that receive grants under paragraph (1).
(f)
Monitoring at Federal health care facilities— The Secretary shall encourage reporting on aggregate antimicrobialdrug use and antimicrobial resistance to antimicrobialdrugs and the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programs by health care facilities of the Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Indian Health Service and shall provide technical assistance to the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, as appropriate and upon request.
(g)
Report on antimicrobial resistance in humans and use of antimicrobial drugs— Not later than 1 year after December 13, 2016, and annually thereafter, the Secretary shall prepare and make publicly available data and information concerning—
(1)
aggregate national and regional trends of antimicrobial resistance in humans to antimicrobial drugs, including such drugs approved under section 356(h) of title 21;
(2)
antimicrobial stewardship, which may include summaries of State efforts to address antimicrobial resistance in humans to antimicrobial drugs and antimicrobial stewardship; and
(3)
coordination between the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Commissioner of Food and Drugs with respect to the monitoring of—
(A)
any applicable resistance under paragraph (1); and
(B)
(h)
Information related to antimicrobial stewardship programs— The Secretary shall, as appropriate, disseminate guidance, educational materials, or other appropriate materials related to the development and implementation of evidence-based antimicrobial stewardship programs or practices at health care facilities, such as nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, ambulatory surgical centers, dialysis centers, outpatient clinics, and hospitals, including community and rural hospitals.
(i)
Supporting State-based activities to combat antimicrobial resistance— The Secretary shall continue to work with State and local public health departments on statewide or regional programs related to antimicrobial resistance. Such efforts may include activities to related to—
(1)
identifying patterns of bacterial and fungal resistance in humans to antimicrobial drugs;
(2)
preventing the spread of bacterial and fungal infections that are resistant to antimicrobial drugs; and
(3)
promoting antimicrobial stewardship.
(j)
Antimicrobial resistance and stewardship activities—
(1)
In general— For the purposes of supporting stewardship activities, examining changes in antimicrobial resistance, and evaluating the effectiveness of section 356(h) of title 21, the Secretary shall—
(A)
provide a mechanism for facilities to report data related to their antimicrobial stewardship activities (including analyzing the outcomes of such activities); and
(B)
evaluate—
(i)
antimicrobial resistance data using a standardized approach; and
(ii)
trends in the utilization of drugs approved under such section 356(h) of title 21 with respect to patient populations.
(2)
Use of systems— The Secretary shall use available systems, including the National Healthcare Safety Network or other systems identified by the Secretary, to fulfill the requirements or conduct activities under this section.
(k)
Network of antibiotic resistance regional laboratories—
(1)
In general— The Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, shall, as appropriate, maintain a network of antibiotic resistance laboratory sites to ensure the maintenance of appropriate capabilities, within existing laboratory capacity maintained or supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to—
(A)
identify and monitor the emergence and changes in the patterns of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens;
(B)
detect, identify, confirm, and isolate such resistant pathogens, including, as appropriate, performing such activities upon the request of another laboratory and providing related technical assistance, and, as applicable, support efforts to respond to local or regional outbreaks of such resistant pathogens; and
(C)
perform activities to support the diagnosis of such resistant pathogens and determine the susceptibility of relevant pathogen samples to applicable treatments.
(2)
Geographic distribution— The Secretary shall ensure that such capacity and capabilities are appropriately distributed among the geographical regions of the United States.
(3)
Partnerships and nonduplication of current domestic capacity— Activities supported under this subsection may be based in an academic center, a State health department, or other facility operated by a public or private entity that carries out relevant laboratory or public health surveillance activities.
(l)
International collaboration—
(1)
In general— The Secretary, in coordination with heads of other relevant Federal departments and agencies, shall support activities related to addressing antimicrobial resistance internationally, including by—
(A)
supporting basic, translational, epidemiological, and clinical research related to antimicrobial-resistant pathogens, including such pathogens that have not yet been detected in the United States, and improving related public health surveillance systems, and laboratory and other response capacity; and
(B)
providing technical assistance related to antimicrobial resistant infection and control activities.
(2)
Awards— In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary may award grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements to public and private entities, including nongovernmental organizations, with applicable expertise, for purposes of supporting new and innovative approaches to the prevention, detection, and mitigation of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens.
(m)
Antimicrobial— For purposes of subsections (f) through (j), the term “antimicrobial” includes any antibacterial or antifungal drugs, and may include drugs that eliminate or inhibit the growth of other microorganisms, as appropriate.
(n)
Supplement not supplant— Funds appropriated under this section shall be used to supplement and not supplant other Federal, State, and local public funds provided for activities under this section.
(o)
Authorization of appropriations— There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section, $40,000,000 for fiscal year 2001, $25,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2002 and 2003, and such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 2004 through 2006.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319E, as added Pub. L. 106–505, title I, § 102, Nov. 13, 2000, 114 Stat. 2318; amended Pub. L. 107–188, title I, § 109, June 12, 2002, 116 Stat. 610; Pub. L. 114–255, div. A, title III, § 3041(a), Dec. 13, 2016, 130 Stat. 1111; Pub. L. 117–328, div. FF, title II, § 2234, Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 5754.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2022—Subsecs. (k) to (o). Pub. L. 117–328 added subsecs. (k) and (l) and redesignated former subsecs. (k) to (m) as (m) to (o), respectively.

2016—Subsecs. (f) to (m). Pub. L. 114–255 added subsecs. (f) to (k) and redesignated former subsecs. (f) and (g) as (l) and (m), respectively.

2002—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 107–188, § 109(1)(A), in introductory provisions, substituted “shall directly or through awards of grants or cooperative agreements to public or private entities provide for the conduct of” for “shall conduct and support”.

Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 107–188, § 109(1)(B), amended par. (4) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (4) read as follows: “the sequencing of the genomes of priority pathogens as determined by the Director of the National Institutes of Health in consultation with the task force established under subsection (a) of this section; and”.

Subsec. (e)(2). Pub. L. 107–188, § 109(2), inserted “schools or programs that train medical laboratory personnel,” after “professional medical societies,”.

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 107–188, § 109(3), substituted “$25,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2002 and 2003, and such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 2004 through 2006” for “and such sums as may be necessary for each subsequent fiscal year through 2006”.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Construction of 2016 Amendment

Nothing in amendment by Pub. L. 114–255 to be construed to restrict the prescribing of antimicrobial drugs or other products, including drugs approved under section 356(h) of Title 21, Food and Drugs, by health care professionals, or to limit the practice of health care, see section 3043 of Pub. L. 114–255, set out as a note under section 356 of Title 21.

Additional Strategies for Combating Antibiotic Resistance

Pub. L. 116–22, title V, § 505, June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 951, provided that: Advisory Council.—The Secretary of Health and Human Services (referred to in this section as the ‘Secretary’) may continue the Presidential Advisory Council on Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria, referred to in this section as the ‘Advisory Council’. Duties.—The Advisory Council shall advise and provide information and recommendations to the Secretary regarding programs and policies intended to reduce or combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria that may present a public health threat and improve capabilities to prevent, diagnose, mitigate, or treat such resistance. Such advice, information, and recommendations may be related to improving— the effectiveness of antibiotics; research and advanced research on, and the development of, improved and innovative methods for combating or reducing antibiotic resistance, including new treatments, rapid point-of-care diagnostics, alternatives to antibiotics, including alternatives to animal antibiotics, and antimicrobial stewardship activities; surveillance of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections, including publicly available and up-to-date information on resistance to antibiotics; education for health care providers and the public with respect to up-to-date information on antibiotic resistance and ways to reduce or combat such resistance to antibiotics related to humans and animals; methods to prevent or reduce the transmission of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections, including stewardship programs; and coordination with respect to international efforts in order to inform and advance United States capabilities to combat antibiotic resistance.Meetings and Coordination.— Meetings.—The Advisory Council shall meet not less than biannually and, to the extent practicable, in coordination with meetings of the Antimicrobial Resistance Task Force established in section 319E(a) of the Public Health Service Act [42 U.S.C. 247d–5(a)]. Coordination.—The Advisory Council shall, to the greatest extent practicable, coordinate activities carried out by the Council with the Antimicrobial Resistance Task Force established under section 319E(a) of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 247d–5(a)). FACA.—The Federal Advisory Committee Act ([former] 5 U.S.C. App.) see [5 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.] shall apply to the activities and duties of the Advisory Council. Extension of Advisory Council.—Not later than October 1, 2022, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a recommendation on whether the Advisory Council should be extended, and in addition, identify whether there are other committees, councils, or task forces that have overlapping or similar duties to that of the Advisory Council, and whether such committees, councils, or task forces should be combined, including with respect to section 319E(a) of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 247d–5(a)).”

Availability of Data

Pub. L. 114–255, div. A, title III, § 3041(b), Dec. 13, 2016, 130 Stat. 1112, provided that: “The Secretary shall make the data collected pursuant to this subsection probably refers to the amendments made to this section by section 3041(a) of [Pub. L. 114–255] public. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed as authorizing the Secretary to disclose any information that is a trade secret or confidential information subject to section 552(b)(4) of title 5, United States Code, or section 1905 of title 18, United States Code.”

Executive Documents

Ex. Ord. No. 13676. Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria

Ex. Ord. No. 13676, Sept. 18, 2014, 79 F.R. 56931, provided:

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby order as follows:

Section 1. Policy. The discovery of antibiotics in the early 20th century fundamentally transformed human and veterinary medicine. Antibiotics save millions of lives each year in the United States and around the world. The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, however, represents a serious threat to public health and the economy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) estimates that annually at least two million illnesses and 23,000 deaths are caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the United States alone.

Detecting, preventing, and controlling antibiotic resistance requires a strategic, coordinated, and sustained effort. It also depends on the engagement of governments, academia, industry, healthcare providers, the general public, and the agricultural community, as well as international partners. Success in this effort will require significant efforts to: minimize the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria; preserve the efficacy of new and existing antibacterial drugs; advance research to develop improved methods for combating antibiotic resistance and conducting antibiotic stewardship; strengthen surveillance efforts in public health and agriculture; develop and promote the use of new, rapid diagnostic technologies; accelerate scientific research and facilitate the development of new antibacterial drugs, vaccines, diagnostics, and other novel therapeutics; maximize the dissemination of the most up-to-date information on the appropriate and proper use of antibiotics to the general public and healthcare providers; work with the pharmaceutical industry to include information on the proper use of over-the-counter and prescription antibiotic medications for humans and animals; and improve international collaboration and capabilities for prevention, surveillance, stewardship, basic research, and drug and diagnostics development.

The Federal Government will work domestically and internationally to detect, prevent, and control illness and death related to antibiotic-resistant infections by implementing measures that reduce the emergence and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and help ensure the continued availability of effective therapeutics for the treatment of bacterial infections.

Sec. 2. Oversight and Coordination. Combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria is a national security priority. The National Security Council staff, in collaboration with the Office of Science and Technology Policy, the Domestic Policy Council, and the Office of Management and Budget, shall coordinate the development and implementation of Federal Government policies to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including the activities, reports, and recommendations of the Task Force for Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria established in section 3 of this order.

Sec. 3. Task Force for Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria. There is hereby established the Task Force for Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria (Task Force), to be co-chaired by the Secretaries of Defense, Agriculture, and HHS.

(a) Membership. In addition to the Co-Chairs, the Task Force shall consist of representatives from:

(i) the Department of State;

(ii) the Department of Justice;

(iii) the Department of Veterans Affairs;

(iv) the Department of Homeland Security;

(v) the Environmental Protection Agency;

(vi) the United States Agency for International Development;

(vii) the Office of Management and Budget;

(viii) the Domestic Policy Council;

(ix) the National Security Council staff;

(x) the Office of Science and Technology Policy;

(xi) the National Science Foundation; and

(xii) such executive departments, agencies, or offices as the Co-Chairs may designate.

Each executive department, agency, or office represented on the Task Force (Task Force agency) shall designate an employee of the Federal Government to perform the functions of the Task Force. In performing its functions, the Task Force may make use of existing interagency task forces on antibiotic resistance.

(b) Mission. The Task Force shall identify actions that will provide for the facilitation and monitoring of implementation of this order and the National Strategy for Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria (Strategy).

(c) Functions.

(i) By February 15, 2015, the Task Force shall submit a 5-year National Action Plan (Action Plan) to the President that outlines specific actions to be taken to implement the Strategy. The Action Plan shall include goals, milestones, and metrics for measuring progress, as well as associated timelines for implementation. The Action Plan shall address recommendations made by the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology regarding combating antibiotic resistance.

(ii) Within 180 days of the release of the Action Plan and each year thereafter, the Task Force shall provide the President with an update on Federal Government actions to combat antibiotic resistance consistent with this order, including progress made in implementing the Strategy and Action Plan, plans for addressing any barriers preventing full implementation of the Strategy and Action Plan, and recommendations for new or modified actions. Annual updates shall include specific goals, milestones, and metrics for all proposed actions and recommendations. The Task Force shall take Federal Government resources into consideration when developing these proposed actions and recommendations.

(iii) In performing its functions, the Task Force shall review relevant statutes, regulations, policies, and programs, and shall consult with relevant domestic and international organizations and experts, as necessary.

(iv) The Task Force shall conduct an assessment of progress made towards achieving the milestones and goals outlined in the Strategy in conjunction with the Advisory Council established pursuant to section 4 of this order.

Sec. 4. Presidential Advisory Council on Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria. (a) The Secretary of HHS (Secretary), in consultation with the Secretaries of Defense and Agriculture, shall establish the Presidential Advisory Council on Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria (Advisory Council). The Advisory Council shall be composed of not more than 30 members to be appointed or designated by the Secretary.

(b) The Secretary shall designate a chairperson from among the members of the Advisory Council.

(c) The Advisory Council shall provide advice, information, and recommendations to the Secretary regarding programs and policies intended to: preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics by optimizing their use; advance research to develop improved methods for combating antibiotic resistance and conducting antibiotic stewardship; strengthen surveillance of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections; prevent the transmission of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections; advance the development of rapid point-of-care and agricultural diagnostics; further research on new treatments for bacterial infections; develop alternatives to antibiotics for agricultural purposes; maximize the dissemination of up-to-date information on the appropriate and proper use of antibiotics to the general public and human and animal healthcare providers; and improve international coordination of efforts to combat antibiotic resistance. The Secretary shall provide the President with all written reports created by the Advisory Council.

(d) Task Force agencies shall, to the extent permitted by law, provide the Advisory Council with such information as it may require for purposes of carrying out its functions.

(e) To the extent permitted by law, and subject to the availability of appropriations, HHS shall provide the Advisory Council with such funds and support as may be necessary for the performance of its functions.

Sec. 5. Improved Antibiotic Stewardship. (a) By the end of calendar year 2016, HHS shall review existing regulations and propose new regulations or other actions, as appropriate, that require hospitals and other inpatient healthcare delivery facilities to implement robust antibiotic stewardship programs that adhere to best practices, such as those identified by the CDC. HHS shall also take steps to encourage other healthcare facilities, such as ambulatory surgery centers and dialysis facilities, to adopt antibiotic stewardship programs.

(b) Task Force agencies shall, as appropriate, define, promulgate, and implement stewardship programs in other healthcare settings, including office-based practices, outpatient settings, emergency departments, and institutional and long-term care facilities such as nursing homes, pharmacies, and correctional facilities.

(c) By the end of calendar year 2016, the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) shall review their existing regulations and, as appropriate, propose new regulations and other actions that require their hospitals and long-term care facilities to implement robust antibiotic stewardship programs that adhere to best practices, such as those defined by the CDC. DoD and the VA shall also take steps to encourage their other healthcare facilities, such as ambulatory surgery centers and outpatient clinics, to adopt antibiotic stewardship programs.

(d) Task Force agencies shall, as appropriate, monitor improvements in antibiotic use through the National Healthcare Safety Network and other systems.

(e) The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in HHS, in coordination with the Department of Agriculture (USDA), shall continue taking steps to eliminate the use of medically important classes of antibiotics for growth promotion purposes in food-producing animals.

(f) USDA, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and FDA shall strengthen coordination in common program areas, such as surveillance of antibiotic use and resistance patterns in food-producing animals, inter-species disease transmissibility, and research findings.

(g) DoD, HHS, and the VA shall review existing regulations and propose new regulations and other actions, as appropriate, to standardize the collection and sharing of antibiotic resistance data across all their healthcare settings.

Sec. 6. Strengthening National Surveillance Efforts for Resistant Bacteria. (a) The Task Force shall ensure that the Action Plan includes procedures for creating and integrating surveillance systems and laboratory networks to provide timely, high-quality data across healthcare and agricultural settings, including detailed genomic and other information, adequate to track resistant bacteria across diverse settings. The network-integrated surveillance systems and laboratory networks shall include common information requirements, repositories for bacteria isolates and other samples, a curated genomic database, rules for access to samples and scientific data, standards for electronic health record-based reporting, data transparency, budget coordination, and international coordination.

(b) Task Force agencies shall, as appropriate, link data from Federal Government sample isolate repositories for bacteria strains to an integrated surveillance system, and, where feasible, the repositories shall enhance their sample collections and further interoperable data systems with national surveillance efforts.

(c) USDA, EPA, and FDA shall work together with stakeholders to monitor and report on changes in antibiotic use in agriculture and their impact on the environment.

(d) Task Force agencies shall, as appropriate, monitor antibiotic resistance in healthcare settings through the National Healthcare Safety Network and related systems.

Sec. 7. Preventing and Responding to Infections and Outbreaks with Antibiotic-Resistant Organisms. (a) Task Force agencies shall, as appropriate, utilize the enhanced surveillance activities described in section 6 of this order to prevent antibiotic-resistant infections by: actively identifying and responding to antibiotic-resistant outbreaks; preventing outbreaks and transmission of antibiotic-resistant infections in healthcare, community, and agricultural settings through early detection and tracking of resistant organisms; and identifying and evaluating additional strategies in the healthcare and community settings for the effective prevention and control of antibiotic-resistant infections.

(b) Task Force agencies shall take steps to implement the measures and achieve the milestones outlined in the Strategy and Action Plan.

(c) DoD, HHS, and the VA shall review and, as appropriate, update their hospital and long-term care infectious disease protocols for identifying, isolating, and treating antibiotic-resistant bacterial infection cases.

Sec. 8. Promoting New and Next Generation Antibiotics and Diagnostics. (a) As part of the Action Plan, the Task Force shall describe steps that agencies can take to encourage the development of new and next-generation antibacterial drugs, diagnostics, vaccines, and novel therapeutics for both the public and agricultural sectors, including steps to develop infrastructure for clinical trials and options for attracting greater private investment in the development of new antibiotics and rapid point-of-care diagnostics. Task Force agency efforts shall focus on addressing areas of unmet medical need for individuals, including those antibiotic-resistant bacteria CDC has identified as public and agricultural health threats.

(b) Together with the countermeasures it develops for biodefense threats, the Biomedical Advanced Research Development Authority in HHS shall develop new and next-generation countermeasures that target antibiotic-resistant bacteria that present a serious or urgent threat to public health.

(c) The Public Health Emergency Medical Countermeasures Enterprise in HHS shall, as appropriate, coordinate with Task Force agencies’ efforts to promote new and next-generation countermeasures to target antibiotic-resistant bacteria that present a serious or urgent threat to public health.

Sec. 9. International Cooperation. Within 30 days of the date of this order, the Secretaries of State, USDA, and HHS shall designate representatives to engage in international action to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including the development of the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Action Plan for Antimicrobial Resistance with the WHO, Member States, and other relevant organizations. The Secretaries of State, USDA, and HHS shall conduct a review of international collaboration activities and partnerships, and identify and pursue opportunities for enhanced prevention, surveillance, research and development, and policy engagement. All Task Force agencies with research and development activities related to antibiotic resistance shall, as appropriate, expand existing bilateral and multilateral scientific cooperation and research pursuant to the Action Plan.

Sec. 10. General Provisions. (a) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(b) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

(d) Insofar as the Federal Advisory Committee Act, as amended ([former] 5 U.S.C. App.) see [5 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.] (the “Act”), may apply to the Advisory Council, any functions of the President under the Act, except for that of reporting to the Congress, shall be performed by the Secretary in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Administrator of General Services.

Extension of Term of Presidential Advisory Council on Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria

Term of Presidential Advisory Council on Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria extended until Sept. 30, 2019, by Ex. Ord. No. 13811, Sept. 29, 2017, 82 F.R. 46363, formerly set out as a note under section 1013 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

Previous extension of term of Presidential Advisory Council on Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria was contained in the following prior Executive Order:

Ex. Ord. No. 13708, Sept. 30, 2015, 80 F.R. 60271, extended term until Sept. 30, 2017.

Delegation of Authority to Re-Establish the Presidential Advisory Council on Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria

Memorandum of President of the United States, Mar. 3, 2020, 85 F.R. 13469, provided:

Memorandum for the Secretary of Health and Human Services

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 301 of title 3, United States Code, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1. Delegation of Re-establishment Authority. The Secretary of Health and Human Services is delegated the authority under section 9(a)(1) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, as amended ([former] 5 U.S.C. App.) see [5 U.S.C. 1008(a)(1)], to re-establish the Presidential Advisory Council on Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria (Council). In exercising this authority, the Secretary may direct the Council to perform duties consistent with those assigned to the Council in section 505(b) of Public Law 116–22 [42 U.S.C. 247d–5 note], and may, at the Secretary’s discretion, specify the membership of the Council, consistent with the requirements of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, as amended ([former] 5 U.S.C. App.) see [5 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.].

Sec. 2. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this memorandum shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b) This memorandum shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(c) This memorandum is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

(d) You are hereby authorized and directed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register.

§247d–6. Public health countermeasures to a bioterrorist attack

42 U.S.C. § 247d–6

(a)
All-hazards public health and medical response curricula and training—
(1)
In general— The Secretary, in collaboration with the Secretary of Defense, and in consultation with relevant public and private entities, shall develop core health and medical response curricula and trainings by adapting applicable existing curricula and trainingprograms to improve responses to public health emergencies.
(2)
Curriculum— The public health and medical response trainingprogram may include course work related to—
(A)
medical management of casualties, taking into account the needs of at-risk individuals;
(B)
public health aspects of public health emergencies;
(C)
mental health aspects of public health emergencies;
(D)
national incident management, including coordination among Federal, State, local, tribal, international agencies, and other entities; and
(E)
protecting health care workers and health care first responders from workplace exposures during a public health emergency.
(3)
Peer review— On a periodic basis, products prepared as part of the program shall be rigorously tested and peer-reviewed by experts in the relevant fields.
(4)
Credit— The Secretary and the Secretary of Defense shall—
(A)
take into account continuing professional education requirements of public health and healthcare professions; and
(B)
cooperate with State, local, and tribal accrediting agencies and with professional associations in arranging for students enrolled in the program to obtain continuing professional education credit for program courses.
(5)
Dissemination and training—
(A)
In general— The Secretary may provide for the dissemination and teaching of the materials described in paragraphs (1) and (2) by appropriate means, as determined by the Secretary.
(B)
Certain entities— The education and training activities described in subparagraph (A) may be carried out by Federal public health, medical, or dental entities, appropriate educational entities, professional organizations and societies, private accrediting organizations, and other nonprofit institutions or entities meeting criteria established by the Secretary.
(C)
Grants and contracts— In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary may carry out activities directly or through the award of grants and contracts, and may enter into interagency agreements with other Federal agencies.
(b)
Advice to the Federal Government—
(1)
Required advisory committees— In coordination with the working group under subsection (a), the Secretary shall establish advisory committees in accordance with paragraphs (2) and (3) to provide expert recommendations to assist such working groups in carrying out their respective responsibilities under subsections (a) and (b).
(2)
National Advisory Committee on At-Risk Individuals and Public Health Emergencies—
(A)
In general— For purposes of paragraph (1), the Secretary shall establish an advisory committee to be known as the National Advisory Committee on At-Risk Individuals and Public Health Emergencies (referred to in this paragraph as the “Advisory Committee”).
(B)
Duties— The Advisory Committee shall provide recommendations regarding—
(i)
the preparedness of the health care (including mental health care) system to respond to public health emergencies as they relate to at-risk individuals;
(ii)
needed changes to the health care and emergency medical service systems and emergency medical services protocols to meet the special needs of at-risk individuals; and
(iii)
changes, if necessary, to the national stockpile under section 300hh–12 of this title to meet the emergency health security of at-risk individuals.
(C)
Composition— The Advisory Committee shall be composed of such Federal officials as may be appropriate to address the special needs of the diverse population groups of at-risk populations.
(D)
Termination— The Advisory Committee terminates six years after June 12, 2002.
(3)
Emergency Public Information and Communications Advisory Committee—
(A)
In general— For purposes of paragraph (1), the Secretary shall establish an advisory committee to be known as the Emergency Public Information and Communications Advisory Committee (referred to in this paragraph as the “EPIC Advisory Committee”).
(B)
Duties— The EPIC Advisory Committee shall make recommendations to the Secretary and report on appropriate ways to communicate public health information regarding bioterrorism and other public health emergencies to the public.
(C)
Composition— The EPIC Advisory Committee shall be composed of individuals representing a diverse group of experts in public health, medicine, communications, behavioral psychology, and other areas determined appropriate by the Secretary.
(D)
Dissemination— The Secretary shall review the recommendations of the EPIC Advisory Committee and ensure that appropriate information is disseminated to the public.
(E)
Termination— The EPIC Advisory Committee terminates one year after June 12, 2002.
(c)
Expansion of Epidemic Intelligence Service Program— The Secretary may establish 20 officer positions in the Epidemic Intelligence ServiceProgram, in addition to the number of the officer positions offered under such Program in 2006, for individuals who agree to participate, for a period of not less than 2 years, in the Career Epidemiology Field Officer program in a State, local, or tribal health department that serves a health professional shortage area (as defined under section 254e(a) of this title), a medically underserved population (as defined under section 254b(b)(3) of this title), or a medically underserved area or area at high risk of a public health emergency as designated by the Secretary.
(d)
Centers for Public Health Preparedness and Response—
(1)
In general— The Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, may award grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements to institutions of higher education, including accreditedschools of public health, or other nonprofit private entities to establish or maintain a network of Centers for Public Health Preparedness and Response (referred to in this subsection as “Centers”).
(2)
Eligibility— To be eligible to receive an award under this subsection, an entity shall submit to the Secretary an application containing such information as the Secretary may require, including a description of how the entity will—
(A)
coordinate relevant activities with applicable State, local, and Tribal health departments and officials, health care facilities, and health care coalitions to improve public health preparedness and response, as informed by the public health preparedness and response needs of the community, or communities, involved;
(B)
prioritize efforts to implement evidence-informed or evidence-based practices to improve public health preparedness and response, including by helping to reduce the transmission of emerging infectious diseases; and
(C)
use funds awarded under this subsection, including by carrying out any activities described in paragraph (3).
(3)
Use of funds— The Centers established or maintained under this subsection shall use funds awarded under this subsection to carry out activities to advance public health preparedness and response capabilities, which may include—
(A)
identifying, translating, and disseminating promising research findings or strategies into evidence-informed or evidence-based practices to inform preparedness for, and responses to, chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear threats, including emerging infectious diseases, and other public health emergencies, which may include conducting research related to public health preparedness and response systems;
(B)
improving awareness of such evidence-informed or evidence-based practices and other relevant scientific or public health information among health care professionals, public health professionals, other stakeholders, and the public, including through the development, evaluation, and dissemination of trainings and training materials, consistent with section 300hh–1(b)(2) of this title, as applicable and appropriate, and with consideration given to existing training materials, to support preparedness for, and responses to, such threats;
(C)
utilizing and expanding relevant technological and analytical capabilities to inform public health and medical preparedness and response efforts;
(D)
expanding activities, including through public-private partnerships, related to public health preparedness and response, including participation in drills and exercises and training public health experts, as appropriate; and
(E)
providing technical assistance and expertise that relies on evidence-based practices, as applicable, related to responses to public health emergencies, as appropriate, to State, local, and Tribal health departments and other entities pursuant to paragraph (2)(A).
(4)
Distribution of awards— In awarding grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements under this subsection, the Secretary shall support not fewer than 10 Centers, subject to the availability of appropriations, and ensure that such awards are equitably distributed among the geographical regions of the United States.
(e)
Accelerated research and development on priority pathogens and countermeasures—
(1)
In general— With respect to pathogens of potential use in a bioterrorist attack, and other agents that may cause a public health emergency, the Secretary, taking into consideration any recommendations of the working group under subsection (a), shall conduct, and award grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements for, research, investigations, experiments, demonstrations, and studies in the health sciences relating to—
(A)
the epidemiology and pathogenesis of such pathogens;
(B)
the sequencing of the genomes, or other DNA analysis, or other comparative analysis, of priority pathogens (as determined by the Director of the National Institutes of Health in consultation with the working group established in subsection (a)), in collaboration and coordination with the activities of the Department of Defense and the Joint Genome Institute of the Department of Energy;
(C)
the development of priority countermeasures; and
(D)
other relevant areas of research;

with consideration given to the needs of children and other vulnerable populations.

(2)
Priority— The Secretary shall give priority under this section to the funding of research and other studies related to priority countermeasures.
(3)
Role of Department of Veterans Affairs— In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consider using the biomedical research and development capabilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs, in conjunction with that Department’s affiliations with health-professions universities. When advantageous to the Government in furtherance of the purposes of such paragraph, the Secretary may enter into cooperative agreements with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to achieve such purposes.
(4)
Priority countermeasures— For purposes of this section, the term “priority countermeasure” means a drug, biological product, device, vaccine, vaccine adjuvant, antiviral, or diagnostic test that the Secretary determines to be—
(A)
a priority to treat, identify, or prevent infection by a biological agent or toxin listed pursuant to section 262a(a)(1) of this title, or harm from any other agent that may cause a public health emergency; or
(B)
a priority to treat, identify, or prevent conditions that may result in adverse health consequences or death and may be caused by the administering of a drug, biological product, device, vaccine, vaccine adjuvant, antiviral, or diagnostic test that is a priority under subparagraph (A).
(f)
Authorization of appropriations—
(1)
Fiscal year 2007— There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section for fiscal year 2007—
(A)
to carry out subsection (a)
(i)
$5,000,000 to carry out paragraphs (1) through (4); and
(ii)
$7,000,000 to carry out paragraph (5);
(B)
to carry out subsection (c), $3,000,000; and
(C)
to carry out subsection (d), $31,000,000.
(2)
Subsequent fiscal years— There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out this section for fiscal year 2008 and each subsequent fiscal year.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319F, as added Pub. L. 106–505, title I, § 102, Nov. 13, 2000, 114 Stat. 2321; amended Pub. L. 107–188, title I, §§ 104(a) 105, 108, 111(3), 125, June 12, 2002, 116 Stat. 605, 606, 609, 611, 614; Pub. L. 108–276, § 2(d), July 21, 2004, 118 Stat. 842; Pub. L. 109–417, title III, §§ 301(d), (e), 304, Dec. 19, 2006, 120 Stat. 2854, 2855, 2859; Pub. L. 113–5, title II, § 203(a), Mar. 13, 2013, 127 Stat. 175; Pub. L. 117–328, div. FF, title II, § 2231(a), Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 5752.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2022—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2231(a)(1), added subsec. (d) and struck out former subsec. (d) which authorized Secretary to establish Centers for Public Health Preparedness at accredited schools of public health.

Subsec. (f)(1)(C). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2231(a)(2), struck out “, of which $5,000,000 shall be used to carry out paragraphs (3) through (5) of such subsection” after “$31,000,000”.

2013—Subsec. (a)(5)(B). Pub. L. 113–5 substituted “public health, medical, or dental” for “public health or medical”.

2006—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 109–417, § 304(1), added subsec. (a) and struck out heading and text of former subsec. (a) which established a working group on bioterrorism and other public health emergencies.

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 109–417, § 301(d)(1), substituted “At-Risk Individuals and Public Health Emergencies” for “Children and Terrorism” in heading.

Subsec. (b)(2)(A). Pub. L. 109–417, § 301(d)(2), substituted “At-Risk Individuals and Public Health Emergencies” for “Children and Terrorism”.

Subsec. (b)(2)(B)(i). Pub. L. 109–417, § 301(d)(3)(A), substituted “public health emergencies as they relate to at-risk individuals” for “bioterrorism as it relates to children”.

Subsec. (b)(2)(B)(ii), (iii). Pub. L. 109–417, § 301(d)(3)(B), (C), substituted “at-risk individuals” for “children”.

Subsec. (b)(2)(C). Pub. L. 109–417, § 301(d)(4), substituted “at-risk populations” for “children, and child health experts on infectious disease, environmental health, toxicology, and other relevant professional disciplines”.

Subsec. (b)(2)(D). Pub. L. 109–417, § 301(d)(5), substituted “six years” for “one year”.

Subsec. (b)(3)(B). Pub. L. 109–417, § 301(e), struck out “and the working group under subsection (a) of this section” after “Secretary”.

Subsecs. (c) to (h). Pub. L. 109–417, § 304(2)–(4), added subsecs. (c), (d), and (f), redesignated subsec. (h) as (e), and struck out former subsecs. (c) to (g), which related to: in subsec. (c), development of communication strategy; in subsec. (d), Federal Internet site on bioterrorism; in subsec. (e), grants to increase capacity to detect, diagnose, and respond to acts of bioterrorism; in subsec. (f), assistance to State and local health agencies to enable effective response to attacks; and, in subsec. (g), education and training activities.

Subsecs. (i), (j). Pub. L. 109–417, § 304(5), struck out subsecs. (i) and (j) which related to report to congressional committees on public health and medical consequences of a bioterrorist attack and the supplementary nature of funds appropriated under this section, respectively.

2004—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 108–276, § 2(d)(1), inserted “the Secretary of Homeland Security,” after “Management Agency,” in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (h)(4)(B). Pub. L. 108–276, § 2(d)(2), substituted “to treat, identify, or prevent conditions” for “to diagnose conditions”.

2002—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 107–188, § 108, added subsec. (a) and struck out heading and text of former subsec. (a). Text read as follows: “The Secretary, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, shall establish a joint interdepartmental working group on preparedness and readiness for the medical and public health effects of a bioterrorist attack on the civilian population. Such joint working group shall—

“(1) coordinate research on pathogens likely to be used in a bioterrorist attack on the civilian population as well as therapies to treat such pathogens;

“(2) coordinate research and development into equipment to detect pathogens likely to be used in a bioterrorist attack on the civilian population and protect against infection from such pathogens;

“(3) develop shared standards for equipment to detect and to protect against infection from pathogens likely to be used in a bioterrorist attack on the civilian population; and

“(4) coordinate the development, maintenance, and procedures for the release of, strategic reserves of vaccines, drugs, and medical supplies which may be needed rapidly after a bioterrorist attack upon the civilian population.”

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 107–188, § 104(a)(1), (3), added subsec. (b) and struck out former subsec. (b) which related to establishment, functions, membership, and coordination of a working group on the public health and medical consequences of bioterrorism.

Subsecs. (c), (d). Pub. L. 107–188, § 104(a)(3), added subsecs. (c) and (d). Former subsecs. (c) and (d) redesignated (e) and (f), respectively.

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 107–188, § 104(a)(2), redesignated subsec. (c) as (e). Former subsec. (e) redesignated (g).

Subsec. (e)(2). Pub. L. 107–188, § 111(3), which directed the amendment of section 391F(e)(2) of the Public Health Service Act by striking out “or” after “clinic,” and inserting before period “, professional organization or society, school or program that trains medical laboratory personnel, private accrediting organization, or other nonprofit private institution or entity meeting criteria established by the Secretary”, was executed to subsec. (e)(2) of this section, which is section 319F(e)(2) of the Act, to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 107–188, § 104(a)(2), redesignated subsec. (d) as (f). Former subsec. (f) redesignated (h).

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 107–188, § 105, amended heading and text of subsec. (g) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “The Secretary, in collaboration with members of the working group described in subsection (b) of this section, and professional organizations and societies, shall—

“(1) develop and implement educational programs to instruct public health officials, medical professionals, and other personnel working in health care facilities in the recognition and care of victims of a bioterrorist attack; and

“(2) develop and implement programs to train laboratory personnel in the recognition and identification of a potential bioweapon.”

Pub. L. 107–188, § 104(a)(2), redesignated subsec. (e) as (g). Former subsec. (g) redesignated (i).

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 107–188, § 125, amended heading and text of subsec. (h) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “The Secretary shall consult with the working group described in subsection (a) of this section, to develop priorities for and conduct research, investigations, experiments, demonstrations, and studies in the health sciences related to—

“(1) the epidemiology and pathogenesis of potential bioweapons;

“(2) the development of new vaccines or other therapeutics against pathogens likely to be used in a bioterrorist attack;

“(3) the development of medical diagnostics to detect potential bioweapons; and

“(4) other relevant research areas.”

Pub. L. 107–188, § 104(a)(2), redesignated subsec. (f) as (h). Former subsec. (h) redesignated (j).

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 107–188, § 104(a)(1), (2), redesignated subsec. (g) as (i) and struck out heading and text of former subsec. (i). Text read as follows: “There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $215,000,000 for fiscal year 2001, and such sums as may be necessary for each subsequent fiscal year through 2006.”

Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 107–188, § 104(a)(2), redesignated subsec. (h) as (j).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Other Reports

Pub. L. 107–188, title I, § 101(b)(1), June 12, 2002, 116 Stat. 598, provided that: In general.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [June 12, 2002], the Secretary of Health and Human Services (referred to in this subsection as the ‘Secretary’) shall submit to the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate, a report concerning— the recommendations and findings of the National Advisory Committee on Children and Terrorism under section 319F(c)(2) of the Public Health Service Act probably means section 319F(b)(2), [42 U.S.C. 247d–6(b)(2)]; the recommendations and findings of the EPIC Advisory Committee under section 319F(c)(3) of such Act probably means section 319F(b)(3), [42 U.S.C. 247d–6(b)(3)]; the characteristics that may render a rural community uniquely vulnerable to a biological attack, including distance, lack of emergency transport, hospital or laboratory capacity, lack of integration of Federal or State public health networks, workforce deficits, or other relevant characteristics; the characteristics that may render areas or populations designated as medically underserved populations (as defined in section 330 of such Act [42 U.S.C. 254b]) uniquely vulnerable to a biological attack, including significant numbers of low-income or uninsured individuals, lack of affordable and accessible health care services, insufficient public and primary health care resources, lack of integration of Federal or State public health networks, workforce deficits, or other relevant characteristics; the recommendations of the Secretary with respect to additional legislative authority that the Secretary determines is necessary to effectively strengthen rural communities, or medically underserved populations (as defined in section 330 of such Act); and the need for and benefits of a National Disaster Response Medical Volunteer Service that would be a private-sector, community-based rapid response corps of medical volunteers.”

Study Regarding Communications Abilities of Public Health Agencies

Pub. L. 107–188, title I, § 104(b), June 12, 2002, 116 Stat. 606, provided that: “The Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with the Federal Communications Commission, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, and other appropriate Federal agencies, shall conduct a study to determine whether local public health entities have the ability to maintain communications in the event of a bioterrorist attack or other public health emergency. The study shall examine whether redundancies are required in the telecommunications system, particularly with respect to mobile communications, for public health entities to maintain systems operability and connectivity during such emergencies. The study shall also include recommendations to industry and public health entities about how to implement such redundancies if necessary.”

§247d–6a. Authority for use of certain procedures regarding qualified countermeasure research and development activities

42 U.S.C. § 247d–6a

(a)
In general—
(1)
Authority— In conducting and supporting research and development activities regarding countermeasures under section 247d–6(e) of this title, the Secretary may conduct and support such activities in accordance with this section and, in consultation with the Director of the National Institutes of Health, as part of the program under section 285f of this title, if the activities concern qualified countermeasures.
(2)
Definitions— In this section:
(A)
Qualified countermeasure— The term “qualified countermeasure” means a drug (as that term is defined by section 321(g)(1) of title 21), biological product (as that term is defined by section 262(i) of this title), or device (as that term is defined by section 321(h) of title 21), that the Secretary determines to be a priority (consistent with sections 182(2) and 184(a) of title 6)—
(i)
to diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or treat harm from any biological agent (including organisms that cause an infectious disease) or toxin, chemical, radiological, or nuclear agent that may cause a public health emergency affecting national security;
(ii)
to diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or treat harm from a condition that may result in adverse health consequences or death and may be caused by administering a drug, biological product, or device that is used as described in this subparagraph; or
(iii)
is a product or technology intended to enhance the use or effect of a drug, biological product, or device described in clause (i) or (ii).
(B)
Infectious disease— The term “infectious disease” means a disease potentially caused by a pathogenic organism (including a bacteria, virus, fungus, or parasite) that is acquired by a person and that reproduces in that person.
(3)
Interagency cooperation—
(A)
In general— In carrying out activities under this section, the Secretary is authorized, subject to subparagraph (B), to enter into interagency agreements and other collaborative undertakings with other agencies of the United States Government.
(B)
Limitation— An agreement or undertaking under this paragraph shall not authorize another agency to exercise the authorities provided by this section.
(4)
Availability of facilities to the Secretary— In any grant, contract, or cooperative agreement entered into under the authority provided in this section with respect to a biocontainment laboratory or other related or ancillary specialized research facility that the Secretary determines necessary for the purpose of performing, administering, or supporting qualified countermeasure research and development, the Secretary may provide that the facility that is the object of such grant, contract, or cooperative agreement shall be available as needed to the Secretary to respond to public health emergencies affecting national security.
(5)
Transfers of qualified countermeasures— Each agreement for an award of a grant, contract, or cooperative agreement under section 247d–6(e) of this title for the development of a qualified countermeasure shall provide that the recipient of the award will comply with all applicable export-related controls with respect to such countermeasure.
(b)
Expedited procurement authority—
(1)
Increased simplified acquisition threshold for qualified countermeasure procurements—
(A)
In general— For any procurement by the Secretary of property or services for use (as determined by the Secretary) in performing, administering, or supporting qualified countermeasure research or development activities under this section that the Secretary determines necessary to respond to pressing research and development needs under this section, the amount specified in section 134 of title 41, as applicable pursuant to section 3101(b)(1)(A) of title 41, shall be deemed to be $25,000,000 in the administration, with respect to such procurement, of—
(i)
section 3305(a)(1) of title 41 and its implementing regulations; and
(ii)
(B)
Application of certain provisions— Notwithstanding subparagraph (A) and the provision of law and regulations referred to in such subparagraph, each of the following provisions shall apply to procurements described in this paragraph to the same extent that such provisions would apply to such procurements in the absence of subparagraph (A):
(i)
Chapter 37 of title 40 (relating to contract work hours and safety standards).
(ii)
(iii)
Section 4706 of title 41 (relating to the examination of contractor records).
(iv)
Section 3131 of title 40 (relating to bonds of contractors of public buildings or works).
(v)
Section 3901 of title 41 (relating to contingent fees to middlemen).
(vi)
(vii)
Section 1354 of title 31 (relating to the limitation on the use of appropriated funds for contracts with entities not meeting veterans employment reporting requirements).
(C)
Internal controls to be instituted— The Secretary shall institute appropriate internal controls for procurements that are under this paragraph, including requirements with regard to documenting the justification for use of the authority in this paragraph with respect to the procurement involved.
(D)
Authority to limit competition— In conducting a procurement under this paragraph, the Secretary may not use the authority provided for under subparagraph (A) to conduct a procurement on a basis other than full and open competition unless the Secretary determines that the mission of the BioShield Program under the Project BioShield Act of 2004 would be seriously impaired without such a limitation.
(2)
Procedures other than full and open competition—
(A)
In general— In using the authority provided in section 3304(a)(1) of title 41 to use procedures other than competitive procedures in the case of a procurement described in paragraph (1) of this subsection, the phrase “available from only one responsible source” in such section 3304(a)(1) shall be deemed to mean “available from only one responsible source or only from a limited number of responsible sources”.
(B)
Relation to other authorities— The authority under subparagraph (A) is in addition to any other authority to use procedures other than competitive procedures.
(C)
Applicable government-wide regulations— The Secretary shall implement this paragraph in accordance with government-wide regulations implementing such section 3304(a)(1) (including requirements that offers be solicited from as many potential sources as is practicable under the circumstances, that required notices be published, and that submitted offers be considered), as such regulations apply to procurements for which an agency has authority to use procedures other than competitive procedures when the property or services needed by the agency are available from only one responsible source or only from a limited number of responsible sources and no other type of property or services will satisfy the needs of the agency.
(3)
Increased micropurchase threshold—
(A)
In general— For a procurement described by paragraph (1), the amount specified in subsections (a), (d), and (e) of section 1902 of title 41 shall be deemed to be $15,000 in the administration of that section with respect to such procurement.
(B)
Internal controls to be instituted— The Secretary shall institute appropriate internal controls for purchases that are under this paragraph and that are greater than $2,500.
(C)
Exception to preference for purchase card mechanism— No provision of law establishing a preference for using a Government purchase card method for purchases shall apply to purchases that are under this paragraph and that are greater than $2,500.
(4)
Review—
(A)
Review allowed— Notwithstanding subsection (f), section 1491 of title 28, and section 3556 of title 31, review of a contracting agency decision relating to a procurement described in paragraph (1) may be had only by filing a protest—
(i)
with a contracting agency; or
(ii)
with the Comptroller General under subchapter V of chapter 35 of title 31.
(B)
Override of stay of contract award or performance committed to agency discretion— Notwithstanding section 1491 of title 28 and section 3553 of title 31, the following authorizations by the head of a procuring activity are committed to agency discretion:
(i)
An authorization under section 3553(c)(2) of title 31 to award a contract for a procurement described in paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(ii)
An authorization under section 3553(d)(3)(C) of such title to perform a contract for a procurement described in paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(c)
Authority to expedite peer review—
(1)
In general— The Secretary may, as the Secretary determines necessary to respond to pressing qualified countermeasure research and development needs under this section, employ such expedited peer review procedures (including consultation with appropriate scientific experts) as the Secretary, in consultation with the Director of NIH, deems appropriate to obtain assessment of scientific and technical merit and likely contribution to the field of qualified countermeasure research, in place of the peer review and advisory council review procedures that would be required under sections 241(a)(3), 284(b)(1)(B), 284(b)(2), 284a(a)(3)(A), 289a, and 289c of this title, as applicable to a grant, contract, or cooperative agreement
(A)
that is for performing, administering, or supporting qualified countermeasure research and development activities; and
(B)
the amount of which is not greater than $1,500,000.
(2)
Subsequent phases of research— The Secretary’s determination of whether to employ expedited peer review with respect to any subsequent phases of a research grant, contract, or cooperative agreement under this section shall be determined without regard to the peer review procedures used for any prior peer review of that same grant, contract, or cooperative agreement. Nothing in the preceding sentence may be construed to impose any requirement with respect to peer review not otherwise required under any other law or regulation.
(d)
Authority for personal services contracts—
(1)
In general— For the purpose of performing, administering, or supporting qualified countermeasure research and development activities, the Secretary may, as the Secretary determines necessary to respond to pressing qualified countermeasure research and development needs under this section, obtain by contract (in accordance with section 3109 of title 5, but without regard to the limitations in such section on the period of service and on pay) the personal services of experts or consultants who have scientific or other professional qualifications, except that in no case shall the compensation provided to any such expert or consultant exceed the daily equivalent of the annual rate of compensation for the President.
(2)
Federal Tort Claims Act coverage—
(A)
In general— A person carrying out a contract under paragraph (1), and an officer, employee, or governing board member of such person, shall, subject to a determination by the Secretary, be deemed to be an employee of the Department of Health and Human Services for purposes of claims under sections 1346(b) and 2672 of title 28 for money damages for personal injury, including death, resulting from performance of functions under such contract.
(B)
Exclusivity of remedy— The remedy provided by subparagraph (A) shall be exclusive of any other civil action or proceeding by reason of the same subject matter against the entity involved (person, officer, employee, or governing board member) for any act or omission within the scope of the Federal Tort Claims Act.
(C)
Recourse in case of gross misconduct or contract violation—
(i)
In general— Should payment be made by the United States to any claimant bringing a claim under this paragraph, either by way of administrative determination, settlement, or court judgment, the United States shall have, notwithstanding any provision of State law, the right to recover against any entity identified in subparagraph (B) for that portion of the damages so awarded or paid, as well as interest and any costs of litigation, resulting from the failure of any such entity to carry out any obligation or responsibility assumed by such entity under a contract with the United States or from any grossly negligent or reckless conduct or intentional or willful misconduct on the part of such entity.
(ii)
Venue— The United States may maintain an action under this subparagraph against such entity in the district court of the United States in which such entity resides or has its principal place of business.
(3)
Internal controls to be instituted—
(A)
In general— The Secretary shall institute appropriate internal controls for contracts under this subsection, including procedures for the Secretary to make a determination of whether a person, or an officer, employee, or governing board member of a person, is deemed to be an employee of the Department of Health and Human Services pursuant to paragraph (2).
(B)
Determination of employee status to be final— A determination by the Secretary under subparagraph (A) that a person, or an officer, employee, or governing board member of a person, is or is not deemed to be an employee of the Department of Health and Human Services shall be final and binding on the Secretary and the Attorney General and other parties to any civil action or proceeding.
(4)
Number of personal services contracts limited— The number of experts and consultants whose personal services are obtained under paragraph (1) shall not exceed 30 at any time.
(e)
Streamlined personnel authority—
(1)
In general— In addition to any other personnel authorities, the Secretary may, as the Secretary determines necessary to respond to pressing qualified countermeasure research and development needs under this section, without regard to those provisions of title 5 governing appointments in the competitive service, and without regard to the provisions of chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of such title relating to classification and General Schedule pay rates, appoint professional and technical employees, not to exceed 30 such employees at any time, to positions in the National Institutes of Health to perform, administer, or support qualified countermeasure research and development activities in carrying out this section.
(2)
Limitations— The authority provided for under paragraph (1) shall be exercised in a manner that—
(A)
recruits and appoints individuals based solely on their abilities, knowledge, and skills;
(B)
does not discriminate for or against any applicant for employment on any basis described in section 2302(b)(1) of title 5;
(C)
does not allow an official to appoint an individual who is a relative (as defined in section 3110(a)(3) of such title) of such official;
(D)
does not discriminate for or against an individual because of the exercise of any activity described in paragraph (9) or (10) of section 2302(b) of such title; and
(E)
accords a preference, among equally qualified persons, to persons who are preference eligibles (as defined in section 2108(3) of such title).
(3)
Internal controls to be instituted— The Secretary shall institute appropriate internal controls for appointments under this subsection.
(f)
Actions committed to agency discretion— Actions by the Secretary under the authority of this section are committed to agency discretion.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319F–1, as added Pub. L. 108–276, § 2(a), July 21, 2004, 118 Stat. 835; amended Pub. L. 109–417, title IV, § 403(a), Dec. 19, 2006, 120 Stat. 2874; Pub. L. 113–5, title IV, § 402(g)(1), Mar. 13, 2013, 127 Stat. 195; Pub. L. 116–22, title VII, § 705(a)(1), June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 964.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Project BioShield Act of 2004, referred to in subsec. (b)(1)(D), is Pub. L. 108–276, July 21, 2004, 118 Stat. 835. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title of 2004 Amendments note set out under section 201 of this title and Tables.

The Federal Tort Claims Act, referred to in subsec. (d)(2), is title IV of act Aug. 2, 1946, ch. 753, 60 Stat. 842, which was classified principally to chapter 20 (§§ 921, 922, 931–934, 941–946) of former Title 28, Judicial Code and Judiciary. Title IV of act Aug. 2, 1946, was substantially repealed and reenacted as sections 1346(b) and 2671 et seq. of Title 28, Judiciary and Judicial Procedure, by act June 25, 1948, ch. 646, 62 Stat. 992, the first section of which enacted Title 28. The Federal Tort Claims Act is also commonly used to refer to chapter 171 of Title 28, Judiciary and Judicial Procedure. For complete classification of title IV to the Code, see Tables. For distribution of former sections of Title 28 into the revised Title 28, see Table at the beginning of Title 28.

Codification

In subsec. (b)(1)(A), “section 134 of title 41” substituted for “section 4(11) of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act (41 U.S.C. 403(11))” and “section 3101(b)(1)(A) of title 41” substituted for “section 302A(a) of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (41 U.S.C. 252a(a))” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (b)(1)(A)(i), “section 3305(a)(1) of title 41” substituted for “section 303(g)(1)(A) of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (41 U.S.C. 253(g)(1)(A))” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (b)(1)(A)(ii), “section 3101(b)(1)(B) of title 41” substituted for “section 302A(b) of such Act (41 U.S.C. 252a(b))” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (b)(1)(B)(ii), “Section 8703(a) of title 41” substituted for “Subsections (a) and (b) of section 7 of the Anti-Kickback Act of 1986 (41 U.S.C. 57(a) and (b))” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (b)(1)(B)(iii), “Section 4706 of title 41” substituted for “Section 304C of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (41 U.S.C. 254d)” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (b)(1)(B)(v), “Section 3901 of title 41” substituted for “Subsection (a) of section 304 of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (41 U.S.C. 254(a))” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (b)(2)(A), “section 3304(a)(1) of title 41” substituted for “section 303(c)(1) of title III of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (41 U.S.C. 253(c)(1))” and “such section 3304(a)(1)” substituted for “such section 303(c)(1)” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (b)(2)(C), “such section 3304(a)(1)” substituted for “such section 303(c)(1)” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (b)(3)(A), “subsections (a), (d), and (e) of section 1902 of title 41” substituted for “subsections (c), (d), and (f) of section 32 of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act (41 U.S.C. 428)” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

Amendments

2019—Subsec. (a)(1), (5). Pub. L. 116–22 substituted “section 247d–6(e) of this title” for “section 247d–6(h) of this title”.

2013—Subsec. (a)(2)(A). Pub. L. 113–5 struck out “to” before dash at end of introductory provisions, inserted “to” before “diagnose” in cls. (i) and (ii), and added cl. (iii).

2006—Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 109–417 added par. (2) and struck out heading and text of former par. (2). Text read as follows: “For purposes of this section, the term ‘qualified countermeasure’ means a drug (as that term is defined by section 321(g)(1) of title 21), biological product (as that term is defined by section 262(i) of this title), or device (as that term is defined by section 321(h) of title 21) that the Secretary determines to be a priority (consistent with sections 182(2) and 184(a) of title 6) to—

“(A) treat, identify, or prevent harm from any biological, chemical, radiological, or nuclear agent that may cause a public health emergency affecting national security; or

“(B) treat, identify, or prevent harm from a condition that may result in adverse health consequences or death and may be caused by administering a drug, biological product, or device that is used as described in subparagraph (A).”

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Rule of Construction

Pub. L. 108–276, § 2(e), July 21, 2004, 118 Stat. 842, provided that: “Nothing in this section [enacting this section and amending sections 247d–6, 287a–2, and 300aa–6 of this title] has any legal effect on sections 302(2), 302(4), 304(a), or 304(b) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 [6 U.S.C. 182(2), (4), 184(a), (b)].”

Collaboration and Coordination

Pub. L. 109–417, title IV, § 405, Dec. 19, 2006, 120 Stat. 2875, as amended by Pub. L. 113–5, § 402(e)(1), Mar. 13, 2013, 127 Stat. 195; Pub. L. 116–22, title VII, § 701(e)(1)(A), (B), June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 961, which authorized the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in coordination with the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security, to conduct meetings with persons engaged in the development of a security countermeasure, a qualified countermeasure, or a qualified pandemic or epidemic product, in such a manner to ensure that no national security, confidential commercial, or proprietary information is disclosed outside the meeting, and exempted from antitrust laws conduct pursuant to a written agreement executed at such a meeting approved by the Attorney General and the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission, was redesignated as section 319L–1 of act July 1, 1944, ch. 373, known as the Public Health Service Act, by Pub. L. 116–22, title VII, § 701(e)(1)(C), (D), June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 961, and editorially reclassified as section 247d–7f of this title.

Outreach

Pub. L. 108–276, § 6, July 21, 2004, 118 Stat. 862, provided that: “The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall develop outreach measures to ensure to the extent practicable that diverse institutions, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities and those serving large proportions of Black or African Americans, American Indians, Appalachian Americans, Alaska Natives, Asians, Native Hawaiians, other Pacific Islanders, Hispanics or Latinos, or other underrepresented populations, are meaningfully aware of available research and development grants, contracts, cooperative agreements, and procurements conducted under sections 2 and 3 of this Act enacting this section and [section 320 of Title 6, Domestic Security, amending sections 247d–6, 247d–6b, 287a–2, and 300aa–6 of this title and sections 312 and 313 of Title 6, renumbering section 300hh–12 of this title as section 247d–6b of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and section 247d–6b of this title].”

Recommendation for Export Controls on Certain Biomedical Countermeasures

Pub. L. 108–276, § 7, July 21, 2004, 118 Stat. 863, provided that: “Upon the award of any grant, contract, or cooperative agreement under section 2 or 3 of this Act enacting this section and [section 320 of Title 6, Domestic Security, amending sections 247d–6, 247d–6b, 287a–2, and 300aa–6 of this title and sections 312 and 313 of Title 6, renumbering section 300hh–12 of this title as section 247d–6b of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and section 247d–6b of this title] for the research, development, or procurement of a qualified countermeasure or a security countermeasure (as those terms are defined in this Act [see Short Title of 2004 Amendments note set out under section 201 of this title]), the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall, in consultation with the heads of other appropriate Federal agencies, determine whether the countermeasure involved in such grant, contract, or cooperative agreement is subject to existing export-related controls and, if not, may make a recommendation to the appropriate Federal agency or agencies that such countermeasure should be included on the list of controlled items subject to such controls.”

Ensuring Coordination, Cooperation and the Elimination of Unnecessary Duplication in Programs Designed To Protect the Homeland From Biological, Chemical, Radiological, and Nuclear Agents

Pub. L. 108–276, § 8, July 21, 2004, 118 Stat. 863, provided that: Ensuring Coordination of Programs.—The Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the activities of their respective Departments coordinate, complement, and do not unnecessarily duplicate programs to identify potential domestic threats from biological, chemical, radiological or nuclear agents, detect domestic incidents involving such agents, analyze such incidents, and develop necessary countermeasures. The aforementioned Secretaries shall further ensure that information and technology possessed by the Departments relevant to these activities are shared with the other Departments. Designation of Agency Coordination Officer.—The Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Secretary of Defense shall each designate an officer or employee of their respective Departments who shall coordinate, through regular meetings and communications, with the other aforementioned Departments such programs and activities carried out by their Departments.”

§247d–6b. Strategic National Stockpile and security countermeasure procurements

42 U.S.C. § 247d–6b

(a)
Strategic National Stockpile—
(1)
In general— The Secretary, in collaboration with the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response and the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and in coordination with the Secretary of Homeland Security (referred to in this section as the “Homeland Security Secretary”), shall maintain a stockpile or stockpiles of drugs, vaccines and other biological products, medical devices, and other supplies (including personal protective equipment, ancillary medical supplies, and other applicable supplies required for the administration of drugs, vaccines and other biological products, medical devices, and diagnostic tests in the stockpile) in such numbers, types, and amounts as are determined consistent with section 300hh–10 of this title by the Secretary to be appropriate and practicable, taking into account other available sources, to provide for and optimize the emergency health security of the United States, including the emergency health security of children and other vulnerable populations, in the event of a bioterrorist attack or other public health emergency and, as informed by existing recommendations of, or consultations with, the Public Health Emergency Medical Countermeasure Enterprise established under section 300hh–10a of this title, make necessary additions or modifications to the contents of such stockpile or stockpiles based on the review conducted under paragraph (2).
(2)
Threat-based review—
(A)
In general— The Secretary shall conduct an annual threat-based review (taking into account at-risk individuals) of the contents of the stockpile under paragraph (1), including non-pharmaceutical supplies, and, in consultation with the Public Health Emergency Medical Countermeasures Enterprise established under section 300hh–10a of this title, review contents within the stockpile and assess whether such contents are consistent with the recommendations made pursuant to section 300hh–10a(c)(1)(A) of this title. Such review shall be submitted on June 15, 2019, and on March 15 of each year thereafter, to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives, in a manner that does not compromise national security.
(B)
Additions, modifications, and replenishments— Each annual threat-based review under subparagraph (A) shall, for each new or modified countermeasure procurement or replenishment, provide—
(i)
information regarding—
(I)
the quantities of the additional or modified countermeasure procured for, or contracted to be procured for, the stockpile;
(II)
planning considerations for appropriate manufacturing capacity and capability to meet the goals of such additions or modifications (without disclosing proprietary information), including—
(aa)
consideration of the effect such additions or modifications may have on the availability of such products and ancillary medical supplies on the health care system; and
(bb)
an assessment of the current supply chain for such products, including information on supply chain redundancies, any known domestic manufacturing capacity for such products, and any related vulnerabilities;
(III)
the presence or lack of a commercial market for the countermeasure at the time of procurement;
(IV)
the emergency health security threat or threats such countermeasure procurement is intended to address, including whether such procurement is consistent with meeting emergency health security needs associated with such threat or threats;
(V)
an assessment of whether the emergency health security threat or threats described in subclause (IV) could be addressed in a manner that better utilizes the resources of the stockpile and permits the greatest possible increase in the level of emergency preparedness to address such threats;
(VI)
whether such countermeasure is replenishing an expiring or expired countermeasure, is a different countermeasure with the same indication that is replacing an expiring or expired countermeasure, or is a new addition to the stockpile;
(VII)
a description of how such additions or modifications align with projected investments under previous countermeasures budget plans under section 300hh–10(b)(7) of this title, including expected life-cycle costs, expenditures related to countermeasure procurement to address the threat or threats described in subclause (IV), replenishment dates (including the ability to extend the maximum shelf life of a countermeasure), and the manufacturing capacity required to replenish such countermeasure; and
(VIII)
appropriate protocols and processes for the deployment, distribution, or dispensing of the countermeasure at the State and local level, including plans for relevant capabilities of State and local entities to dispense, distribute, and administer the countermeasure; and
(ii)
an assurance, which need not be provided in advance of procurement, that for each countermeasure procured or replenished under this subsection, the Secretary completed a review addressing each item listed under this subsection in advance of such procurement or replenishment.
(3)
Procedures— The Secretary, in managing the stockpile under paragraph (1), shall—
(A)
consult with the working group under section 247d–6(a) of this title and the Public Health Emergency Medical Countermeasures Enterprise established under section 300hh–10a of this title;
(B)
ensure that adequate procedures are followed, regularly reviewed, and updated with respect to such stockpile for inventory management and accounting, and for the physical security of the stockpile;
(C)
in consultation with Federal, State, local, and Tribal officials, take into consideration the timing and location of special events, and the availability, deployment, dispensing, and administration of countermeasures;
(D)
review and revise, as appropriate, the contents of the stockpile on a regular basis to ensure that—
(i)
emerging threats, advanced technologies, and new countermeasures are adequately considered;
(ii)
the potential depletion of countermeasures currently in the stockpile is identified and appropriately addressed, including through necessary replenishment; and
(iii)
such contents are in working condition or usable, as applicable, and are ready for deployment, which may include conducting maintenance services on such contents of the stockpile and disposing of such contents that are no longer in working condition, or usable, as applicable;
(E)
devise plans for effective and timely supply-chain management of the stockpile, in consultation with the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and the heads of other appropriate Federal agencies; State, local, Tribal, and territorial agencies; and the public and private health care infrastructure, as applicable, taking into account the manufacturing capacity and other available sources of products and appropriate alternatives to supplies in the stockpile;
(F)
deploy the stockpile at the discretion of the Secretary, in consultation with, or at the request of, the Secretary of Homeland Security, to respond to an actual or potential emergency;
(G)
deploy the stockpile at the discretion of the Secretary to respond to an actual or potential public health emergency or other situation in which deployment is necessary to protect the public health or safety;
(H)
ensure the adequate physical security of the stockpile;
(I)
ensure that each countermeasure or product under consideration for procurement pursuant to this subsection receives the same consideration regardless of whether such countermeasure or product receives or had received funding under section 247d–7e of this title, including with respect to whether the countermeasure or product is most appropriate to meet the emergency health security needs of the United States;
(J)
provide assistance, including technical assistance, to maintain and improve State1 local, and Tribal public health preparedness capabilities to distribute and dispense medical countermeasures and products from the stockpile, as appropriate; and
(K)
convene meetings, not less than once per year, with representatives from State, local, and Tribal health departments or officials, relevant industries, other Federal agencies, and other appropriate stakeholders, in a manner that does not compromise national security, to coordinate and share information related to maintenance and use of the stockpile, including a description of future countermeasure needs and additions, modifications, and replenishments of the contents of the stockpile, and considerations related to the manufacturing and procurement of products consistent with the requirements of the with the requirements of2chapter 83 of title 41 (commonly referred to as the “Buy American Act”), as appropriate.
(4)
Utilization guidelines— The Secretary shall ensure timely and accurate recommended utilization guidelines for qualified countermeasures (as defined in section 247d–6a of this title), qualified pandemic and epidemic products (as defined in section 247d–6d of this title), and security countermeasures (as defined in subsection (c)), including for such products in the stockpile.
(5)
Vendor-managed inventory and warm-base surge capacity—
(A)
In general— For the purposes of maintaining the stockpile under paragraph (1) and carrying out procedures under paragraph (3), the Secretary may enter into contracts or cooperative agreements with vendors, which may include manufacturers or distributors of medical products, with respect to medical products intended to be delivered to the ownership of the Federal Government. Each such contract or cooperative agreement shall be subject to such terms and conditions as the Secretary may specify, including terms and conditions with respect to—
(i)
procurement, maintenance, storage, and delivery of products, in alignment with inventory management and other applicable best practices, under such contract or cooperative agreement, which may consider, as appropriate, costs of transporting and handling such products; or
(ii)
maintenance of domestic manufacturing capacity and capabilities of such products to ensure additional reserved production capacity and capabilities are available, and that such capacity and capabilities are able to support the rapid manufacture, purchase, storage, and delivery of such products, as required by the Secretary to prepare for, or respond to, an existing or potential public health emergency.
(B)
Report— Not later than 2 years after December 29, 2022, and annually thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives a report on any contracts or cooperative agreements entered into under subparagraph (A) for purposes of establishing and maintaining vendor-managed inventory or reserve manufacturing capacity and capabilities for products intended for the stockpile, including a description of—
(i)
the amount of each award;
(ii)
the recipient of each award;
(iii)
the product or products covered through each award; and
(iv)
how the Secretary works with each recipient to ensure situational awareness related to the manufacturing capacity for, or inventory of, such products and coordinates the distribution and deployment of such products, as appropriate and applicable.
(6)
GAO report—
(A)
In general— Not later than 3 years after June 24, 2019, and every 5 years thereafter, the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a review of any changes to the contents or management of the stockpile since January 1, 2015. Such review shall include—
(i)
an assessment of the comprehensiveness and completeness of each annual threat-based review under paragraph (2), including whether all newly procured or replenished countermeasures within the stockpile were described in each annual review, and whether, consistent with paragraph (2)(B), the Secretary conducted the necessary internal review in advance of such procurement or replenishment;
(ii)
an assessment of whether the Secretary established health security and science-based justifications, and a description of such justifications for procurement decisions related to health security needs with respect to the identified threat, for additions or modifications to the stockpile based on the information provided in such reviews under paragraph (2)(B), including whether such review was conducted prior to procurement, modification, or replenishment;
(iii)
an assessment of the plans developed by the Secretary for the deployment, distribution, and dispensing of countermeasures procured, modified, or replenished under paragraph (1), including whether such plans were developed prior to procurement, modification, or replenishment;
(iv)
an accounting of countermeasures procured, modified, or replenished under paragraph (1) that received advanced research and development funding from the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority;
(v)
an analysis of how such procurement decisions made progress toward meeting emergency health security needs related to the identified threats for countermeasures added, modified, or replenished under paragraph (1);
(vi)
a description of the resources expended related to the procurement of countermeasures (including additions, modifications, and replenishments) in the stockpile, and how such expenditures relate to the ability of the stockpile to meet emergency health security needs;
(vii)
an assessment of the extent to which additions, modifications, and replenishments reviewed under paragraph (2) align with previous relevant reports or reviews by the Secretary or the Comptroller General;
(viii)
with respect to any change in the Federal organizational management of the stockpile, an assessment and comparison of the processes affected by such change, including planning for potential countermeasure deployment, distribution, or dispensing capabilities and processes related to procurement decisions, use of stockpiled countermeasures, and use of resources for such activities;
(ix)
an assessment of whether the processes and procedures described by the Secretary pursuant to section 403(b) of the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness and Advancing Innovation Act of 2019 are sufficient to ensure countermeasures and products under consideration for procurement pursuant to subsection (a) receive the same consideration regardless of whether such countermeasures and products receive or had received funding under section 247d–7e of this title, including with respect to whether such countermeasures and products are most appropriate to meet the emergency health security needs of the United States; and
(x)
with respect to reports issued in 2027 or any subsequent year, an assessment of selected contracts or cooperative agreements entered into pursuant to paragraph (5).
(B)
Submission— Not later than 6 months after completing a classified version of the review under subparagraph (A), the Comptroller General shall submit an unclassified version of the review to the congressional committees of jurisdiction.
(7)
Reimbursement for certain supplies—
(A)
In general— The Secretary may, at appropriate intervals, make available for purchase excess contents procured for, and maintained within, the stockpile under paragraph (1) to any Federal agency or State, local, or Tribal government. The Secretary shall make such contents available for purchase only if—
(i)
such contents are in excess of what is required for appropriate maintenance of such stockpile;
(ii)
the Secretary determines that the costs for maintaining such excess contents are not appropriate to expend to meet the needs of the stockpile; and
(iii)
the Secretary determines that such action does not compromise national security and is in the national interest.
(B)
Reimbursement and collection— The Secretary may require reimbursement for contents that are made available under subparagraph (A), in an amount that reflects the cost of acquiring and maintaining such contents and the costs incurred to make available such contents in the time and manner specified by the Secretary. Amounts collected under this subsection shall be credited to the appropriations account or fund that incurred the costs to procure such contents, and shall remain available, without further appropriation, until expended, for the purposes of the appropriation account or fund so credited.
(C)
Rule of construction— This paragraph shall not be construed to preclude transfers of contents in the stockpile under other authorities.
(D)
Report— Not later than 2 years after December 29, 2022, and annually thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives a report on the use of the authority provided under this paragraph, including details of each action taken pursuant to this paragraph, the account or fund to which any collected amounts have been credited, and how the Secretary has used such amounts.
(E)
Sunset— The authority under this paragraph shall terminate on September 30, 2028.
(b)
Smallpox vaccine development—
(1)
In general— The Secretary shall award contracts, enter into cooperative agreements, or carry out such other activities as may reasonably be required in order to ensure that the stockpile under subsection (a) includes an amount of vaccine against smallpox as determined by such Secretary to be sufficient to meet the health security needs of the United States.
(2)
Rule of construction— Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the private distribution, purchase, or sale of vaccines from sources other than the stockpile described in subsection (a).
(c)
Additional authority regarding procurement of certain countermeasures; availability of special reserve fund—
(1)
In general—
(A)
Use of fund— A security countermeasure may, in accordance with this subsection, be procured with amounts in the special reserve fund as defined in subsection (h).
(B)
Security countermeasure— For purposes of this subsection, the term “security countermeasure” means a drug (as that term is defined by section 201(g)(1) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 321(g)(1))), biological product (as that term is defined by section 262(i) of this title), or device (as that term is defined by section 201(h) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 321(h))) that—
(i)
(I)
the Secretary determines to be a priority (consistent with sections 182(2) and 184(a) of title 6) to diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or treat harm from any biological, chemical, radiological, or nuclear agent identified as a material threat under paragraph (2)(A)(ii), or to diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or treat harm from a condition that may result in adverse health consequences or death and may be caused by administering a drug, biological product, or device against such an agent;
(II)
the Secretary determines under paragraph (2)(B)(ii) to be a necessary countermeasure; and
(III)
(aa)
is approved or cleared under chapter V of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act [21 U.S.C. 351 et seq.] or licensed under section 262 of this title; or
(bb)
is a countermeasure for which the Secretary determines that sufficient and satisfactory clinical experience or research data (including data, if available, from pre-clinical and clinical trials) support a reasonable conclusion that the countermeasure will qualify for approval or licensing within 10 years after the date of a determination under paragraph (5); or
(ii)
is authorized for emergency use under section 564 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act [21 U.S.C. 360bbb–3].
(2)
Determination of material threats—
(A)
Material threat— The Homeland Security Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary and the heads of other agencies as appropriate, shall on an ongoing basis—
(i)
assess current and emerging threats of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear agents; and
(ii)
determine which of such agents present a material threat against the United States population sufficient to affect national security.
(B)
Public health impact; necessary countermeasures— The Secretary shall on an ongoing basis—
(i)
assess the potential public health consequences for the United States population of exposure to agents identified under subparagraph (A)(ii); and
(ii)
determine, on the basis of such assessment, the agents identified under subparagraph (A)(ii) for which countermeasures are necessary to protect the public health.
(C)
Notice to Congress— The Secretary and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall send to Congress, not later than March 15 of each year, all current material threat determinations and shall promptly notify the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives that a determination has been made pursuant to subparagraph (A) or (B).
(D)
Assuring access to threat information— In making the assessment and determination required under subparagraph (A), the Homeland Security Secretary shall use all relevant information to which such Secretary is entitled under section 122 of title 6, including but not limited to information, regardless of its level of classification, relating to current and emerging threats of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear agents.
(3)
Assessment of availability and appropriateness of countermeasures—
(A)
In general— The Secretary, in consultation with the Homeland Security Secretary, shall assess on an ongoing basis the availability and appropriateness of specific countermeasures to address specific threats identified under paragraph (2).
(B)
Information— The Secretary shall institute a process for making publicly available the results of assessments under subparagraph (A) while withholding such information as—
(i)
would, in the judgment of the Secretary, tend to reveal public health vulnerabilities; or
(ii)
would otherwise be exempt from disclosure under section 552 of title 5.
(4)
Call for development of countermeasures; commitment for recommendation for procurement—
(A)
Proposal to the President— If, pursuant to an assessment under paragraph (3), the Homeland Security Secretary and the Secretary make a determination that a countermeasure would be appropriate but is either currently not developed or unavailable for procurement as a security countermeasure or is approved, licensed, or cleared only for alternative uses, such Secretaries may jointly submit to the President a proposal to—
(i)
issue a call for the development of such countermeasure; and
(ii)
make a commitment that, upon the first development of such countermeasure that meets the conditions for procurement under paragraph (5), the Secretaries will, based in part on information obtained pursuant to such call, and subject to the availability of appropriations, make available the special reserve fund as defined in subsection (h) for procurement of such countermeasure, as applicable.
(B)
Countermeasure specifications— The Homeland Security Secretary and the Secretary shall, to the extent practicable, include in the proposal under subparagraph (A)
(i)
estimated quantity of purchase (in the form of number of doses or number of effective courses of treatments regardless of dosage form);
(ii)
necessary measures of minimum safety and effectiveness;
(iii)
estimated price for each dose or effective course of treatment regardless of dosage form; and
(iv)
other information that may be necessary to encourage and facilitate research, development, and manufacture of the countermeasure or to provide specifications for the countermeasure.
(C)
Presidential approval— If the President approves a proposal under subparagraph (A), the Homeland Security Secretary and the Secretary shall make known to persons who may respond to a call for the countermeasure involved—
(i)
the call for the countermeasure;
(ii)
specifications for the countermeasure under subparagraph (B); and
(iii)
the commitment described in subparagraph (A)(ii).
(5)
Secretary’s determination of countermeasures appropriate for funding from special reserve fund—
(A)
In general— The Secretary, in accordance with the provisions of this paragraph, shall identify specific security countermeasures that the Secretary determines, in consultation with the Homeland Security Secretary, to be appropriate for inclusion in the stockpile under subsection (a) pursuant to procurements made with amounts in the special reserve fund as defined in subsection (h) (referred to in this subsection individually as a “procurement under this subsection”).
(B)
Requirements— In making a determination under subparagraph (A) with respect to a security countermeasure, the Secretary shall determine and consider the following:
(i)
The quantities of the product that will be needed to meet the stockpile needs.
(ii)
The feasibility of production and delivery within 10 years of sufficient quantities of the product.
(iii)
Whether there is a lack of a significant commercial market for the product at the time of procurement, other than as a security countermeasure.
(6)
Recommendations for procurement—
(A)
Notice to appropriate congressional committees— The Secretary shall notify the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives of each decision to make available the special reserve fund as defined in subsection (h) for procurement of a security countermeasure, including, where available, the number of, the nature of, and other information concerning potential suppliers of such countermeasure, and whether other potential suppliers of the same or similar countermeasures were considered and rejected for procurement under this section and the reasons for each such rejection.
(B)
Subsequent specific countermeasures— Procurement under this subsection of a security countermeasure for a particular purpose does not preclude the subsequent procurement under this subsection of any other security countermeasure for such purpose if the Secretary has determined under paragraph (5)(A) that such countermeasure is appropriate for inclusion in the stockpile and if, as determined by the Secretary, such countermeasure provides improved safety or effectiveness, or for other reasons enhances preparedness to respond to threats of use of a biological, chemical, radiological, or nuclear agent. Such a determination by the Secretary is committed to agency discretion.
(7)
Procurement—
(A)
Payments from special reserve fund— The special reserve fund as defined in subsection (h) shall be available for payments made by the Secretary to a vendor for procurement of a security countermeasure in accordance with the provisions of this paragraph.
(B)
Procurement—
(i)
In general— The Secretary shall be responsible for—
(I)
arranging for procurement of a security countermeasure, including negotiating terms (including quantity, production schedule, and price) of, and entering into, contracts and cooperative agreements, and for carrying out such other activities as may reasonably be required, including advanced research and development, in accordance with the provisions of this subparagraph; and
(II)
promulgating such regulations as the Secretary determines necessary to implement the provisions of this subsection.
(ii)
Contract terms— A contract for procurements under this subsection shall (or, as specified below, may) include the following terms:
(I)
Payment conditioned on delivery— The contract shall provide that no payment may be made until delivery of a portion, acceptable to the Secretary, of the total number of units contracted for, except that, notwithstanding any other provision of law, the contract may provide that, if the Secretary determines (in the Secretary’s discretion) that an advance payment, partial payment for significant milestones, or payment to increase manufacturing capacity is necessary to ensure success of a project, the Secretary shall pay an amount, not to exceed 10 percent of the contract amount, in advance of delivery. The Secretary shall, to the extent practicable, make the determination of advance payment at the same time as the issuance of a solicitation. The contract shall provide that such advance payment is required to be repaid if there is a failure to perform by the vendor under the contract. The contract may also provide for additional advance payments of 5 percent each for meeting the milestones specified in such contract, except that such payments shall not exceed 50 percent of the total contract amount. If the specified milestones are reached, the advanced payments of 5 percent shall not be required to be repaid. Nothing in this subclause shall be construed as affecting the rights of vendors under provisions of law or regulation (including the Federal Acquisition Regulation) relating to the termination of contracts for the convenience of the Government.
(II)
Discounted payment— The contract may provide for a discounted price per unit of a product that is not licensed, cleared, or approved as described in paragraph (1)(B)(i)(III)(aa) at the time of delivery, and may provide for payment of an additional amount per unit if the product becomes so licensed, cleared, or approved before the expiration date of the contract (including an additional amount per unit of product delivered before the effective date of such licensing, clearance, or approval).
(III)
Contract duration— The contract shall be for a period not to exceed five years, except that, in first awarding the contract, the Secretary may provide for a longer duration, not exceeding 10 years, if the Secretary determines that complexities or other difficulties in performance under the contract justify such a period. The contract shall be renewable for additional periods, none of which shall exceed five years. The Secretary shall notify the vendor within 90 days of a determination by the Secretary to renew, extend, or terminate such contract.
(IV)
Storage by vendor— The contract may provide that the vendor will provide storage for stocks of a product delivered to the ownership of the Federal Government under the contract, for such period and under such terms and conditions as the Secretary may specify, and in such case amounts from the special reserve fund as defined in subsection (h) shall be available for costs of shipping, handling, storage, and related costs for such product.
(V)
Product approval— The contract shall provide that the vendor seek approval, clearance, or licensing of the product from the Secretary; for a timetable for the development of data and other information to support such approval, clearance, or licensing; and that the Secretary may waive part or all of this contract term on request of the vendor or on the initiative of the Secretary.
(VI)
Non-stockpile transfers of security countermeasures— The contract shall provide that the vendor will comply with all applicable export-related controls with respect to such countermeasure.
(VII)
Sales exclusivity— The contract may provide that the vendor is the exclusive supplier of the product to the Federal Government for a specified period of time, not to exceed the term of the contract, on the condition that the vendor is able to satisfy the needs of the Government. During the agreed period of sales exclusivity, the vendor shall not assign its rights of sales exclusivity to another entity or entities without approval by the Secretary. Such a sales exclusivity provision in such a contract shall constitute a valid basis for a sole source procurement under section 3304(a)(1) of title 41.
(VIII)
Warm based surge capacity— The contract may provide that the vendor establish domestic manufacturing capacity of the product to ensure that additional production of the product is available in the event that the Secretary determines that there is a need to quickly purchase additional quantities of the product. Such contract may provide a fee to the vendor for establishing and maintaining such capacity in excess of the initial requirement for the purchase of the product. Additionally, the cost of maintaining the domestic manufacturing capacity shall be an allowable and allocable direct cost of the contract.
(IX)
Contract terms— The Secretary, in any contract for procurement under this section—
(aa)
may specify—
(AA)
the dosing and administration requirements for the countermeasure to be developed and procured;
(BB)
the amount of funding that will be dedicated by the Secretary for advanced research, development, and procurement of the countermeasure; and
(CC)
the specifications the countermeasure must meet to qualify for procurement under a contract under this section; and
(bb)
shall provide a clear statement of defined Government purpose limited to uses related to a security countermeasure, as defined in paragraph (1)(B).
(iii)
Availability of simplified acquisition procedures—
(I)
In general— If the Secretary determines that there is a pressing need for a procurement of a specific countermeasure, the amount of the procurement under this subsection shall be deemed to be below the threshold amount specified in section 134 of title 41, for purposes of application to such procurement, pursuant to section 3101(b)(1)(A) of title 41, of—
(aa)
section 3305(a)(1) of title 41 and its implementing regulations; and
(bb)
(II)
Application of certain provisions— Notwithstanding subclause (I) and the provision of law and regulations referred to in such clause, each of the following provisions shall apply to procurements described in this clause to the same extent that such provisions would apply to such procurements in the absence of subclause (I):
(aa)
Chapter 37 of title 40 (relating to contract work hours and safety standards).
(bb)
(cc)
Section 4706 of title 41 (relating to the examination of contractor records).
(dd)
Section 3131 of title 40 (relating to bonds of contractors of public buildings or works).
(ee)
Section 3901 of title 41 (relating to contingent fees to middlemen).
(ff)
(gg)
Section 1354 of title 31 (relating to the limitation on the use of appropriated funds for contracts with entities not meeting veterans employment reporting requirements).
(III)
Internal controls to be established— The Secretary shall establish appropriate internal controls for procurements made under this clause, including requirements with respect to documentation of the justification for the use of the authority provided under this paragraph with respect to the procurement involved.
(IV)
Authority to limit competition— In conducting a procurement under this subparagraph, the Secretary may not use the authority provided for under subclause (I) to conduct a procurement on a basis other than full and open competition unless the Secretary determines that the mission of the BioShield Program under the Project BioShield Act of 2004 would be seriously impaired without such a limitation.
(iv)
Procedures other than full and open competition—
(I)
In general— In using the authority provided in section 3304(a)(1) of title 41 to use procedures other than competitive procedures in the case of a procurement under this subsection, the phrase “available from only one responsible source” in such section 3304(a)(1) shall be deemed to mean “available from only one responsible source or only from a limited number of responsible sources”.
(II)
Relation to other authorities— The authority under subclause (I) is in addition to any other authority to use procedures other than competitive procedures.
(III)
Applicable government-wide regulations— The Secretary shall implement this clause in accordance with government-wide regulations implementing such section 3304(a)(1) (including requirements that offers be solicited from as many potential sources as is practicable under the circumstances, that required notices be published, and that submitted offers be considered), as such regulations apply to procurements for which an agency has authority to use procedures other than competitive procedures when the property or services needed by the agency are available from only one responsible source or only from a limited number of responsible sources and no other type of property or services will satisfy the needs of the agency.
(v)
Premium provision in multiple award contracts—
(I)
In general— If, under this subsection, the Secretary enters into contracts with more than one vendor to procure a security countermeasure, such Secretary may, notwithstanding any other provision of law, include in each of such contracts a provision that—
(aa)
identifies an increment of the total quantity of security countermeasure required, whether by percentage or by numbers of units; and
(bb)
promises to pay one or more specified premiums based on the priority of such vendors’ production and delivery of the increment identified under item (aa), in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract.
(II)
Determination of Government’s requirement not reviewable— If the Secretary includes in each of a set of contracts a provision as described in subclause (I), such Secretary’s determination of the total quantity of security countermeasure required, and any amendment of such determination, is committed to agency discretion.
(vi)
Extension of closing date for receipt of proposals not reviewable— A decision by the Secretary to extend the closing date for receipt of proposals for a procurement under this subsection is committed to agency discretion.
(vii)
Limiting competition to sources responding to request for information— In conducting a procurement under this subsection, the Secretary may exclude a source that has not responded to a request for information under section 3306(a)(1)(B) of title 41 if such request has given notice that the Secretary may so exclude such a source.
(viii)
Flexibility— In carrying out this section, the Secretary may, consistent with the applicable provisions of this section, enter into contracts and other agreements that are in the best interest of the Government in meeting identified security countermeasure needs, including with respect to reimbursement of the cost of advanced research and development as a reasonable, allowable, and allocable direct cost of the contract involved.
(8)
Interagency cooperation—
(A)
In general— In carrying out activities under this section, the Homeland Security Secretary and the Secretary are authorized, subject to subparagraph (B), to enter into interagency agreements and other collaborative undertakings with other agencies of the United States Government. Such agreements may allow other executive agencies to order qualified and security countermeasures under procurement contracts or other agreements established by the Secretary. Such ordering process (including transfers of appropriated funds between an agency and the Department of Health and Human Services as reimbursements for such orders for countermeasures) may be conducted under the authority of section 1535 of title 31, except that all such orders shall be processed under the terms established under this subsection for the procurement of countermeasures.
(B)
Limitation— An agreement or undertaking under this paragraph shall not authorize another agency to exercise the authorities provided by this section to the Homeland Security Secretary or to the Secretary.
(d)
Disclosures— No Federal agency may disclose under section 552 of title 5 any information identifying the location at which materials in the stockpile described in subsection (a) are stored, or other information regarding the contents or deployment capability of the stockpile that could compromise national security.
(e)
Definition— For purposes of subsection (a), the term “stockpile” includes—
(1)
a physical accumulation (at one or more locations) of the supplies described in subsection (a); or
(2)
a contractual agreement between the Secretary and a vendor or vendors under which such vendor or vendors agree to provide to such Secretary supplies described in subsection (a).
(f)
Authorization of appropriations—
(1)
Strategic National Stockpile— For the purpose of carrying out subsection (a), there are authorized to be appropriated $610,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2021, and $750,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 and 2023, to remain available until expended. Such authorization is in addition to amounts in the special reserve fund referred to in subsection (h).
(2)
Smallpox vaccine development— For the purpose of carrying out subsection (b), there are authorized to be appropriated $509,000,000 for fiscal year 2002, and such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 2003 through 2006.
(g)
Special reserve fund—
(1)
Authorization of appropriations— In addition to amounts appropriated to the special reserve fund prior to March 13, 2013, there is authorized to be appropriated, for the procurement of security countermeasures under subsection (c) and for carrying out section 247d–7e of this title (relating to the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority), $7,100,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2019 through 2028, to remain available until expended.
(2)
Use of special reserve fund for advanced research and development— The Secretary may utilize not more than 50 percent of the amounts authorized to be appropriated under paragraph (1) to carry out section 247d–7e of this title (related to the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority). Amounts authorized to be appropriated under this subsection to carry out section 247d–7e of this title are in addition to amounts otherwise authorized to be appropriated to carry out such section.
(3)
Restrictions on use of funds— Amounts in the special reserve fund shall not be used to pay costs other than payments made by the Secretary to a vendor for advanced development (under section 247d–7e of this title) or for procurement of a security countermeasure under subsection (c)(7).
(4)
Report on security countermeasure procurement— Not later than March 1 of each year in which the Secretary determines that the amount of funds available for procurement of security countermeasures is less than $1,500,000,000, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report detailing the amount of such funds available for procurement and the impact such amount of funding will have—
(A)
in meeting the security countermeasure needs identified under this section; and
(B)
on the annual Public Health Emergency Medical Countermeasures Enterprise and Strategy Implementation Plan (pursuant to section 300hh–10(d) of this title).
(5)
Clarification on contracting authority— The Secretary, acting through the Director of the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, shall carry out the programs funded by the special reserve fund (for the procurement of security countermeasures under subsection (c) and for carrying out section 247d–7e of this title), including the execution of procurement contracts, grants, and cooperative agreements pursuant to this section and section 247d–7e of this title.
(h)
Definitions— In this section:
(1)
The term “advanced research and development” has the meaning given such term in section 247d–7e(a) of this title.
(2)
The term “special reserve fund” means the “Biodefense Countermeasures” appropriations account, any appropriation made available pursuant to section 321j(a) of title 6, and any appropriation made available pursuant to subsection (g)(1).
(i)
Pilot program to support State medical stockpiles—
(1)
In general— The Secretary, in consultation with the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response and the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, shall award grants or cooperative agreements to not fewer than 5 States, or consortia of States, with consideration given to distribution among the geographical regions of the United States, to establish, expand, or maintain a stockpile of appropriate drugs, vaccines and other biological products, medical devices, and other medical supplies determined by the State to be necessary to respond to a public health emergency declared by the Governor of a State or by the Secretary under section 247d of this title, or a major disaster or emergency declared by the President under section 5170 or 5191, respectively, of this title, in order to support the preparedness goals described in paragraphs (2) through (6) and (8) of section 300hh–1(b) of this title. A recipient of such an award may not use award funds to support the stockpiling of security countermeasures (as defined in subsection (c)(1),3 unless the eligible entity provides justification for maintaining such countermeasures and the Secretary determines such justification is appropriate and applicable.
(2)
Requirements—
(A)
Application— To be eligible to receive an award under paragraph (1), an entity shall prepare, in consultation with appropriate health care entities and health officials within the jurisdiction of such State or States, and submit to the Secretary an application that contains such information as the Secretary may require, including—
(i)
a plan for such stockpile, consistent with paragraph (4), including—
(I)
a description of the activities such entity will carry out under the agreement;
(II)
an assurance that such entity will use funds under such award in alignment with the requirements of chapter 83 of title 41 (commonly referred to as the “Buy American Act”); and
(III)
an outline of proposed expenses; and
(ii)
a description of how such entity will coordinate with relevant entities in receipt of an award under section 247d–3a or 247d–3b of this title pursuant to paragraph (4), including through promoting alignment between the stockpile plan established pursuant to clause (i) and applicable plans that are established by such entity pursuant to section 247d–3a or 247d–3b of this title.
(B)
Matching funds—
(i)
Subject to clause (ii), the Secretary may not make an award under this subsection unless the applicant agrees, with respect to the costs to be incurred by the applicant in carrying out the purpose described in this subsection, to make available non-Federal contributions toward such costs in an amount equal to—
(I)
for each of fiscal years 2023 and 2024, not less than $1 for each $20 of Federal funds provided in the award; and
(II)
for fiscal year 2025 and each fiscal year thereafter, not less than $1 for each $10 of Federal funds provided in the award.
(ii)
Waiver.— The Secretary may, upon the request of a State, waive the requirement under clause (i), in whole or in part, if the Secretary determines that extraordinary economic conditions in the State in the fiscal year involved or in the previous fiscal year justify the waiver. A waiver provided by the Secretary under this subparagraph shall apply only to the fiscal year involved.
(C)
Administrative expenses— Not more than 10 percent of amounts received by an entity pursuant to an award under this subsection may be used for administrative expenses.
(3)
Lead entity— An entity in receipt of an award under paragraph (1) may designate a lead entity, which may be a public or private entity, as appropriate, to manage the stockpile at the direction of the State or consortium of States.
(4)
Use of funds— An entity in receipt of an award under paragraph (1) shall use such funds to—
(A)
purchase, store, and maintain a stockpile of appropriate drugs, vaccines and other biological products, medical devices, and other medical supplies to be used during a public health emergency, major disaster, or emergency described in paragraph (1), in such numbers, types, and amounts as the entity determines necessary, consistent with such entity’s stockpile plan established pursuant to paragraph (2)(A)(i);
(B)
deploy the stockpile as required by the entity to respond to an actual or potential public health emergency, major disaster, or other emergency described in paragraph (1);
(C)
replenish and make necessary additions or modifications to the contents of such stockpile, including to address potential depletion;
(D)
in consultation with Federal, State, and local officials, take into consideration the availability, deployment, dispensing, and administration requirements of medical products within the stockpile;
(E)
ensure that procedures are followed for inventory management and accounting, and for the physical security of the stockpile, as appropriate;
(F)
review and revise, as appropriate, the contents of the stockpile on a regular basis to ensure that, to the extent practicable, new technologies and medical products are considered;
(G)
carry out exercises, drills, and other training for purposes of stockpile deployment, dispensing, and administration of medical products, and for purposes of assessing the capability of such stockpile to address the medical supply needs of public health emergencies, major disasters, or other emergencies described in paragraph (1) of varying types and scales, which may be conducted in accordance with requirements related to exercises, drills, and other training for recipients of awards under section 247d–3a or 247d–3b of this title, as applicable; and
(H)
carry out other activities related to the State strategic stockpile as the entity determines appropriate, to support State efforts to prepare for, and respond to, public health threats.
(5)
Supplement not supplant— Awards under paragraph (1) shall supplement, not supplant, the maintenance and use of the Strategic National Stockpile by the Secretary under subsection (a).
(6)
Guidance for States— Not later than 180 days after December 29, 2022, the Secretary, in consultation with States, health officials, and other relevant stakeholders, as appropriate, shall issue guidance, and update such guidance as appropriate, for States related to maintaining and replenishing a stockpile of medical products, which may include strategies and best practices related to—
(A)
types of medical products and medical supplies that are critical to respond to public health emergencies, and may be appropriate for inclusion in a stockpile by States, with consideration of threats that require the large-scale and simultaneous deployment of stockpiles, including the stockpile maintained by the Secretary pursuant to subsection (a), and long-term public health and medical response needs;
(B)
appropriate management of the contents of a stockpile, including management by vendors of reserve amounts of medical products and supplies intended to be delivered to the ownership of the State and appropriate disposition of excess products, as applicable; and
(C)
the procurement of medical products and medical supplies consistent with the requirements of chapter 83 of title 41 (commonly referred to as the “Buy American Act”).
(7)
Technical assistance— The Secretary shall provide assistance to States, including technical assistance, as appropriate, in establishing, maintaining, improving, and utilizing a medical stockpile, including appropriate inventory management and disposition of products.
(8)
Reporting—
(A)
State reports— Each entity receiving an award under paragraph (1) shall update, as appropriate, the plan established pursuant to paragraph (2)(A)(i) and submit to the Secretary an annual report on implementation of such plan, including any changes to the contents of the stockpile supported under such award. The Secretary shall use information obtained from such reports to inform the maintenance and management of the Strategic National Stockpile pursuant to subsection (a).
(B)
Reports to Congress— Not later than 1 year after the initial issuance of awards pursuant to paragraph (1), and annually thereafter for the duration of the program established under this subsection, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives a report on such program, including—
(i)
Federal and State expenditures to support stockpiles under such program;
(ii)
activities conducted pursuant to paragraph (4); and
(iii)
any additional information from the States that the Secretary determines relevant.
(9)
Authorization of appropriations— To carry out this subsection, there is authorized to be appropriated $3,500,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 and 2024, to remain available until expended.

Footnotes

  1. 1 So in original. Probably should be followed by a comma.
  2. 2 So in original.
  3. 3 So in original. Another closing parenthesis probably should precede the comma.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319F–2, formerly Pub. L. 107–188, title I, § 121, June 12, 2002, 116 Stat. 611; Pub. L. 107–296, title XVII, § 1705(a), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2316; renumbered § 319F–2 of act July 1, 1944, and amended Pub. L. 108–276, § 3(a), July 21, 2004, 118 Stat. 842; Pub. L. 109–417, title I, § 102(c), title IV, §§ 403(b), 406, Dec. 19, 2006, 120 Stat. 2834, 2874, 2879; Pub. L. 113–5, title IV, §§ 401, 403, Mar. 13, 2013, 127 Stat. 192, 196; Pub. L. 114–255, div. A, title III, §§ 3081, 3082(a), 3085, Dec. 13, 2016, 130 Stat. 1140, 1144; Pub. L. 116–22, title IV, § 403(a), (c), title V, §§ 502, 504(a), title VII, § 702, June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 943, 947, 950, 951, 962; Pub. L. 116–136, div. A, title III, § 3102, Mar. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 361; Pub. L. 117–58, div. G, title IX, § 70953(f)(3), Nov. 15, 2021, 135 Stat. 1316; Pub. L. 117–328, div. FF, title II, §§ 2402, 2403, 2404(b)–2406, 2408(a), 2409(a), Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 5785–5787, 5789.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 403(b) of the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness and Advancing Innovation Act of 2019, referred to in subsec. (a)(6)(A)(ix), is section 403(b) of Pub. L. 116–22, title IV, June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 947, which is not classified to the Code.

The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, referred to in subsec. (c)(1)(B)(i)(III)(aa), is act June 25, 1938, ch. 675, 52 Stat. 1040. Chapter V of the Act is classified generally to subchapter V (§ 351 et seq.) of chapter 9 of Title 21, Food and Drugs. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 301 of Title 21 and Tables.

The Project BioShield Act of 2004, referred to in subsec. (c)(7)(B)(iii)(IV), is Pub. L. 108–276, July 21, 2004, 118 Stat. 835. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title of 2004 Amendments note set out under section 201 of this title and Tables.

Codification

In subsec. (c)(7)(B)(ii)(VII), “section 3304(a)(1) of title 41” substituted for “section 303(c)(1) of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (41 U.S.C. 253(c)(1))” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (c)(7)(B)(iii)(I), “section 134 of title 41” substituted for “section 4(11) of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act (41 U.S.C. 403(11))” and “section 3101(b)(1)(A) of title 41” substituted for “section 302A(a) of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (41 U.S.C. 252a(a))” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (c)(7)(B)(iii)(I)(aa), “section 3305(a)(1) of title 41” substituted for “section 303(g)(1)(A) of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (41 U.S.C. 253(g)(1)(A))” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (c)(7)(B)(iii)(I)(bb), “section 3101(b)(1)(B) of title 41” substituted for “section 302A(b) of such Act (41 U.S.C. 252a(b))” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (c)(7)(B)(iii)(II)(bb), “Section 8703(a) of title 41” substituted for “Subsections (a) and (b) of section 7 of the Anti-Kickback Act of 1986 (41 U.S.C. 57(a) and (b))” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (c)(7)(B)(iii)(II)(cc), “Section 4706 of title 41” substituted for “Section 304C of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (41 U.S.C. 254d)” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (c)(7)(B)(iii)(II)(ee), “Section 3901 of title 41” substituted for “Subsection (a) of section 304 of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (41 U.S.C. 254(a))” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (c)(7)(B)(iv)(I), “section 3304(a)(1) of title 41” substituted for “section 303(c)(1) of title III of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (41 U.S.C. 253(c)(1))” and “such section 3304(a)(1)” substituted for “such section 303(c)(1)” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (c)(7)(B)(iv)(III), “such section 3304(a)(1)” substituted for “such section 303(c)(1)” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

In subsec. (c)(7)(B)(vii), “section 3306(a)(1)(B) of title 41” substituted for “section 303A(a)(1)(B) of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (41 U.S.C. 253a(a)(1)(B))” on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, § 6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.

Section was formerly classified to section 300hh–12 of this title prior to renumbering by Pub. L. 108–276.

Amendments

2022—Subsec. (a)(2)(B)(i)(II). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2402, amended subcl. (II) generally. Prior to amendment, subcl. (II) read as follows: “planning considerations for appropriate manufacturing capacity and capability to meet the goals of such additions or modifications (without disclosing proprietary information), including consideration of the effect such additions or modifications may have on the availability of such products and ancillary medical supplies in the health care system;”.

Subsec. (a)(3)(B). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2403(1), inserted “, regularly reviewed, and updated” after “followed”.

Subsec. (a)(3)(C). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2408(a)(1), substituted “local, and Tribal” for “and local”.

Subsec. (a)(3)(D). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2403(2), amended subpar. (D) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (D) read as follows: “review and revise, as appropriate, the contents of the stockpile on a regular basis to ensure that emerging threats, advanced technologies, and new countermeasures are adequately considered and that the potential depletion of countermeasures currently in the stockpile is identified and appropriately addressed, including through necessary replenishment;”.

Subsec. (a)(3)(F). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2405(a)(1)(A), substituted “at the discretion of the Secretary, in consultation with, or at the request of, the Secretary of Homeland Security,” for “as required by the Secretary of Homeland Security”.

Subsec. (a)(3)(J). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2408(a)(2), substituted “local, and Tribal” for “and local”.

Subsec. (a)(3)(K). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2404(b), added subpar. (K).

Subsec. (a)(5). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2405(a)(1)(C), added par. (5). Former par. (5) redesignated (6).

Subsec. (a)(6). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2405(a)(1)(B), redesignated par. (5) as (6). Former par. (6) redesignated (7).

Subsec. (a)(6)(A)(x). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2405(a)(1)(D), added cl. (x).

Subsec. (a)(7). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2406, amended par. (7) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “The Secretary, in coordination with the Secretary of Homeland Security, may sell drugs, vaccines and other biological products, medical devices, or other supplies maintained in the stockpile under paragraph (1) to a Federal agency or private, nonprofit, State, local, tribal, or territorial entity for immediate use and distribution, provided that any such items being sold are—

“(A) within 1 year of their expiration date; or

“(B) determined by the Secretary to no longer be needed in the stockpile due to advances in medical or technical capabilities.”

Pub. L. 117–328, § 2405(a)(1)(B), redesignated par. (6) as (7).

Subsec. (c)(2)(C). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2405(a)(2), substituted “not later than March 15 of each year” for “on an annual basis”.

Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2405(b), substituted “$610,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2021, and $750,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 and 2023” for “$610,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2023”.

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 117–328, § 2409(a), added subsec. (i).

2021—Subsec. (a)(6). Pub. L. 117–58 added par. (6).

2020—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 116–136 inserted “(including personal protective equipment, ancillary medical supplies, and other applicable supplies required for the administration of drugs, vaccines and other biological products, medical devices, and diagnostic tests in the stockpile)” after “other supplies”.

2019—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 116–22, § 403(a)(2), inserted “the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response and” after “collaboration with”, “and optimize” after “provide for” and “and, as informed by existing recommendations of, or consultations with, the Public Health Emergency Medical Countermeasure Enterprise established under section 300hh–10a of this title, make necessary additions or modifications to the contents of such stockpile or stockpiles based on the review conducted under paragraph (2)” after “public health emergency”, and struck out at end “The Secretary shall conduct an annual review (taking into account at-risk individuals) of the contents of the stockpile, including non-pharmaceutical supplies, and make necessary additions or modifications to the contents based on such review and shall submit such review annually to the appropriate congressional committees of jurisdiction to the extent that disclosure of such information does not compromise national security.”

Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 116–22, § 403(a)(3), added par. (2). Former par. (2) redesignated (3).

Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 116–22, § 403(a)(1), redesignated par. (2) as (3). Former par. (3) redesignated (4).

Subsec. (a)(3)(A). Pub. L. 116–22, § 403(a)(4)(A), inserted before semicolon at end “and the Public Health Emergency Medical Countermeasures Enterprise established under section 300hh–10a of this title”.

Subsec. (a)(3)(C). Pub. L. 116–22, § 403(a)(4)(B), inserted before semicolon at end “, and the availability, deployment, dispensing, and administration of countermeasures”.

Subsec. (a)(3)(E). Pub. L. 116–22, § 403(a)(4)(C), amended subpar. (E) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (E) read as follows: “devise plans for the effective and timely supply-chain management of the stockpile, in consultation with appropriate Federal, State and local agencies, and the public and private health care infrastructure;”.

Subsec. (a)(3)(I), (J). Pub. L. 116–22, § 403(a)(4)(D)–(F), added subpars. (I) and (J).

Subsec. (a)(4). Pub. L. 116–22, § 403(a)(1), redesignated par. (3) as (4).

Subsec. (a)(5). Pub. L. 116–22, § 403(a)(5), added par. (5).

Subsec. (c)(2)(C). Pub. L. 116–22, § 502(a), substituted “The Secretary and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall send to Congress, on an annual basis, all current material threat determinations and shall promptly notify the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives” for “The Secretary and the Homeland Security Secretary shall promptly notify the appropriate committees of Congress”.

Subsec. (c)(7)(B)(ii)(III). Pub. L. 116–22, § 502(b), inserted at end “The Secretary shall notify the vendor within 90 days of a determination by the Secretary to renew, extend, or terminate such contract.”

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 116–22, § 702, amended subsec. (d) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “No Federal agency shall disclose under section 552 of title 5 any information identifying the location at which materials in the stockpile under subsection (a) are stored.”

Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 116–22, § 403(c), substituted “$610,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2023, to remain available until expended” for “$533,800,000 for each of fiscal years 2014 through 2018”.

Subsec. (g)(1). Pub. L. 116–22, § 504(a), substituted “$7,100,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2019 through 2028, to remain available until expended” for “$2,800,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2014 through 2018” and struck out at end “Amounts appropriated pursuant to the preceding sentence are authorized to remain available until September 30, 2019.”

2016—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 114–255, § 3081(1), added par. (3).

Subsec. (c)(4)(A)(ii). Pub. L. 114–255, § 3085(1), substituted “and subject to the availability of appropriations, make available the special reserve fund as defined in subsection (h) for procurement of such countermeasure, as applicable” for “make a recommendation under paragraph (6) that the special reserve fund as defined in subsection (h) be made available for the procurement of such countermeasure”.

Subsec. (c)(6). Pub. L. 114–255, § 3085(2)(D), substituted “Recommendations for procurement” for “Recommendation for President’s approval” in heading.

Subsec. (c)(6)(A). Pub. L. 114–255, § 3085(2)(C), amended subpar. (A) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “The Secretary and the Homeland Security Secretary shall notify the appropriate congressional committees of each decision of the President to approve a recommendation under subparagraph (A). Such notice shall include an explanation of the decision to make available the special reserve fund as defined in subsection (h) for procurement of such a countermeasure, including, where available, the number of, nature of, and other information concerning potential suppliers of such countermeasure, and whether other potential suppliers of the same or similar countermeasures were considered and rejected for procurement under this section and the reasons therefor.”

Pub. L. 114–255, § 3085(2)(A), (B), redesignated subpar. (C) as (A) and struck out former subpar. (A). Text of former subpar. (A) read as follows: “In the case of a security countermeasure that the Secretary has, in accordance with paragraphs (3) and (5), determined to be appropriate for procurement under this subsection, the Homeland Security Secretary and the Secretary shall jointly submit to the President, in coordination with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, a recommendation that the special reserve fund as defined in subsection (h) be made available for the procurement of such countermeasure.”

Subsec. (c)(6)(B). Pub. L. 114–255, § 3085(2)(A), (B), redesignated subpar. (D) as (B) and struck out former subpar. (B). Text of former subpar. (B) read as follows: “The special reserve fund as defined in subsection (h) is available for a procurement of a security countermeasure only if the President has approved a recommendation under subparagraph (A) regarding the countermeasure.”

Subsec. (c)(6)(C), (D). Pub. L. 114–255, § 3085(2)(B), redesignated subpars. (C) and (D) as (A) and (B), respectively.

Subsec. (c)(6)(E). Pub. L. 114–255, § 3085(2)(A), struck out subpar. (E). Text read as follows: “Recommendations and approvals under this paragraph apply solely to determinations that the special reserve fund as defined in subsection (h) will be made available for a procurement of a security countermeasure, and not to the substance of contracts for such procurement or other matters relating to awards of such contracts.”

Subsec. (c)(7)(A). Pub. L. 114–255, § 3085(3)(A), added subpar. (A) and struck out former subpar. (A). Text of former subpar. (A) read as follows: “For purposes of a procurement under this subsection that is approved by the President under paragraph (6), the Homeland Security Secretary and the Secretary shall have responsibilities in accordance with subparagraphs (B) and (C).”

Subsec. (c)(7)(B), (C). Pub. L. 114–255, § 3085(3), redesignated subpar. (C) as (B) and struck out former subpar. (B). Text of former subpar. (B) read as follows: “The Homeland Security Secretary shall enter into an agreement with the Secretary for procurement of a security countermeasure in accordance with the provisions of this paragraph. The special reserve fund as defined in subsection (h) shall be available for payments made by the Secretary to a vendor for such procurement.”

Subsec. (g)(4). Pub. L. 114–255, § 3081(2), amended par. (4) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “Not later than 30 days after any date on which the Secretary determines that the amount of funds in the special reserve fund available for procurement is less than $1,500,000,000, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report detailing the amount of such funds available for procurement and the impact such reduction in funding will have—

“(A) in meeting the security countermeasure needs identified under this section; and

“(B) on the annual Public Health Emergency Medical Countermeasures Enterprise and Strategy Implementation Plan (pursuant to section 300hh–10(d) of this title).”

Subsec. (g)(5). Pub. L. 114–255, § 3082(a), added par. (5).

2013—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 113–5, § 403(1)(A), inserted “consistent with section 300hh–10 of this title” after “amounts as are determined” and “and shall submit such review annually to the appropriate congressional committees of jurisdiction to the extent that disclosure of such information does not compromise national security” after “based on such review”.

Subsec. (a)(2)(D). Pub. L. 113–5, § 403(1)(B), inserted “and that the potential depletion of countermeasures currently in the stockpile is identified and appropriately addressed, including through necessary replenishment” before semicolon at end.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 113–5, § 401(b)(1)(A), substituted “special reserve fund as defined in subsection (h)” for “special reserve fund under paragraph (10)” wherever appearing.

Subsec. (c)(1)(B)(i)(III)(bb). Pub. L. 113–5, § 401(a)(1), substituted “10 years” for “eight years”.

Subsec. (c)(2)(C). Pub. L. 113–5, § 401(a)(2), substituted “the appropriate committees of Congress” for “the designated congressional committees (as defined in paragraph (10))”.

Subsec. (c)(5)(B)(ii). Pub. L. 113–5, § 401(a)(3), substituted “10 years” for “eight years”.

Subsec. (c)(6)(C). Pub. L. 113–5, § 401(a)(4), substituted “appropriate congressional committees” for “designated congressional committees” in heading and in text.

Subsec. (c)(7)(C)(i)(I). Pub. L. 113–5, § 401(a)(5)(A), inserted “including advanced research and development,” after “as may reasonably be required,”.

Subsec. (c)(7)(C)(ii)(III). Pub. L. 113–5, § 401(a)(5)(B)(i), substituted “10 years” for “eight years”.

Subsec. (c)(7)(C)(ii)(IX). Pub. L. 113–5, § 401(a)(5)(B)(ii), added subcl. (IX) and struck out former subcl. (IX). Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “The Secretary, in any contract for procurement under this section, may specify—

“(aa) the dosing and administration requirements for countermeasures to be developed and procured;

“(bb) the amount of funding that will be dedicated by the Secretary for development and acquisition of the countermeasure; and

“(cc) the specifications the countermeasure must meet to qualify for procurement under a contract under this section.”

Subsec. (c)(7)(C)(viii). Pub. L. 113–5, § 401(a)(5)(C), added cl. (viii).

Subsec. (c)(9), (10). Pub. L. 113–5, § 401(b)(1)(B), struck out pars. (9) and (10) which described restrictions on the use of funds and defined “special reserve fund” and “designated congressional committees”.

Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 113–5, § 403(2), substituted “$533,800,000 for each of fiscal years 2014 through 2018. Such authorization is in addition to amounts in the special reserve fund referred to in subsection (h).” for “$640,000,000 for fiscal year 2002, and such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 2003 through 2006. Such authorization is in addition to amounts in the special reserve fund referred to in subsection (c)(10)(A) of this section.”

Subsecs. (g), (h). Pub. L. 113–5, § 401(b)(2), added subsecs. (g) and (h).

2006—Pub. L. 109–417, § 406(1), inserted “and security countermeasure procurements” after “Stockpile” in section catchline.

Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 109–417, § 102(c), inserted “in collaboration with the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and” after “The Secretary,” and inserted at end “The Secretary shall conduct an annual review (taking into account at-risk individuals) of the contents of the stockpile, including non-pharmaceutical supplies, and make necessary additions or modifications to the contents based on such review.”

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 109–417, § 406(2)(A), struck out “biomedical” before “countermeasures” in heading.

Subsec. (c)(1)(B)(i)(I). Pub. L. 109–417, § 403(b), which directed amendment of section 319F–2(c)(1)(B) by substituting “diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or treat” for “treat, identify, or prevent” wherever appearing, was executed by making the substitution in two places in subsec. (c)(1)(B)(i)(I) of this section, which is section 319F–2 of the Public Health Service Act, to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 109–417, § 406(2)(B), designated existing provisions as subpar. (A), inserted heading, and added subpar. (B).

Subsec. (c)(4)(A). Pub. L. 109–417, § 406(2)(C), inserted “not developed or” after “currently” in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (c)(5)(B)(i). Pub. L. 109–417, § 406(2)(D), substituted “to meet the stockpile needs” for “to meet the needs of the stockpile”.

Subsec. (c)(7)(B). Pub. L. 109–417, § 406(2)(E), substituted “cost” for “costs” in subpar. heading, struck out cl. (i) designation and heading before “The Homeland”, and struck out heading and text of cl. (ii). Text read as follows: “The actual costs to the Secretary under this section, other than the costs described in clause (i), shall be paid from the appropriation provided for under subsection (f)(1) of this section.”

Subsec. (c)(7)(C)(ii)(I). Pub. L. 109–417, § 406(2)(F)(i), amended heading and text of subcl. (I) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “The contract shall provide that no payment may be made until delivery has been made of a portion, acceptable to the Secretary, of the total number of units contracted for, except that, notwithstanding any other provision of law, the contract may provide that, if the Secretary determines (in the Secretary’s discretion) that an advance payment is necessary to ensure success of a project, the Secretary may pay an amount, not to exceed 10 percent of the contract amount, in advance of delivery. The contract shall provide that such advance payment is required to be repaid if there is a failure to perform by the vendor under the contract. Nothing in this subclause may be construed as affecting rights of vendors under provisions of law or regulation (including the Federal Acquisition Regulation) relating to termination of contracts for the convenience of the Government.”

Subsec. (c)(7)(C)(ii)(VII) to (IX). Pub. L. 109–417, § 406(2)(F)(ii), added subcls. (VII) to (IX).

Subsec. (c)(8)(A). Pub. L. 109–417, § 406(2)(G), inserted at end “Such agreements may allow other executive agencies to order qualified and security countermeasures under procurement contracts or other agreements established by the Secretary. Such ordering process (including transfers of appropriated funds between an agency and the Department of Health and Human Services as reimbursements for such orders for countermeasures) may be conducted under the authority of section 1535 of title 31, except that all such orders shall be processed under the terms established under this subsection for the procurement of countermeasures.”

2004—Pub. L. 108–276, § 3(a)(2), amended section generally. Prior to amendment, text related in subsec. (a) to Strategic National Stockpile, in subsec. (b) to smallpox vaccine development, in subsec. (c) to disclosures, in subsec. (d) to definition of “stockpile”, and in subsec. (e) to authorization of appropriations.

2002—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 107–296, § 1705(a)(1), substituted “The Secretary of Homeland Security” for “The Secretary of Health and Human Services” and inserted “the Secretary of Health and Human Services and” after “in coordination with” and “of Health and Human Services” after “as are determined by the Secretary”.

Subsecs. (a)(2), (b)(1). Pub. L. 107–296, § 1705(a)(2), inserted “of Health and Human Services” after “Secretary” wherever appearing.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2002 Amendment

Pub. L. 107–296, title XVII, § 1705(b), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2316, provided that: “The amendments made by this section [amending this section] shall take effect on the date of transfer of the Strategic National Stockpile of the Department of Health and Human Services to the Department [of Homeland Security].”

Improving Transparency and Predictability of Processes of the Strategic National Stockpile

Pub. L. 117–328, div. FF, title II, § 2404(a), Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 5785, provided that: “Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 29, 2022], the Secretary of Health and Human Services (referred to in this section as the ‘Secretary’) shall issue guidance describing the processes by which the Secretary deploys the contents of the Strategic National Stockpile under section 319F–2(a) of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 247d–6b(a)), or otherwise distributes medical countermeasures, as applicable, to States, territories, Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations (as such terms are defined under section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act [25 U.S.C. 5304]), and other applicable entities. Such guidance shall include information related to processes by which to request access to the contents of the Strategic National Stockpile, factors considered by the Secretary when making deployment or distribution decisions, and processes and points of contact through which entities may contact the Secretary to address any issues related to products requested or received by such entity from the stockpile, and on other relevant topics.”

Increased Manufacturing Capacity for Certain Critical Antibiotic Drugs

Pub. L. 117–328, div. FF, title II, § 2411, Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 5793, provided that:Program.— In general.—The Secretary, in consultation with the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response and Commissioner of Food and Drugs, may award contracts to increase the domestic manufacturing capacity of certain antibiotic drugs with identified supply chain vulnerabilities, or the active pharmaceutical ingredient or key starting material of such antibiotic drugs. Eligible entities.—To be eligible to receive an award under this subsection, an entity shall— be a manufacturer that is in compliance with, or demonstrates capability to comply with, the relevant requirements of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.); and prepare and submit to the Secretary an application at such time, and in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require, including— a description of proposed activities to be supported by an award under this subsection to increase manufacturing capacity for such antibiotic drug or drugs; the antibiotic drug or drugs, or related active pharmaceutical ingredients or key starting materials for such drug or drugs, that such entity intends to manufacture with any increased manufacturing capacity supported by an award under this subsection; any additional products such increased manufacturing capacity could be used to manufacture; a description of the current supply chain for such antibiotic drugs, including any existing and applicable manufacturing facilities, known vulnerabilities in the supply chain, known or potential supply limitations, such as foreign export restrictions, or subsidies from foreign governments, as applicable; a description of how such entity may use advanced or flexible manufacturing in carrying out the terms of an award under this subsection; and a strategic plan regarding the maintenance, operation, and sustainment of such increased manufacturing capacity following the expiration of a contract under this subsection. Use of funds.—A recipient of an award under this subsection shall use such funds to build, expand, upgrade, modify, or recommission a facility located in the United States, which may include the purchase or upgrade of equipment, as applicable, to support increased manufacturing capacity of certain antibiotic drugs for which supply chain vulnerabilities exist, or the active pharmaceutical ingredient or key starting material of such antibiotic drugs. Reports.—An entity in receipt of an award under this subsection shall submit to the Secretary such reports as the Secretary may require related to increasing domestic manufacturing capacity of antibiotic drugs pursuant to a contract under this subsection, including actions taken to implement the strategic plan required under paragraph (2)(B)(vi). Contract terms.—The following shall apply to a contract to support increased domestic manufacturing capacity under this subsection: Milestone-based payments.—The Secretary may provide payment, including advance payment or partial payment for significant milestones, if the Secretary makes a determination that such payment is necessary and appropriate. Repayment.—The contract shall provide that such payment is required to be repaid if there is a failure to perform by the manufacturer under the contract; if the specified milestones are reached, an advance or partial payment shall not be required to be repaid.Contract duration.— In general.—Each contract shall be for a period not to exceed 5 years. Non-renewability.—A contract shall not be renewable. Notifications of extensions and terminations.—If the Secretary decides to terminate a contract prior to its expiration, the Secretary shall notify the manufacturer within 90 days of such determination. Additional terms.—The Secretary, in any contract under this subsection— may specify— the amount of funding that will be dedicated by the Secretary for supporting increased manufacturing capacity under such contract; and the amount of manufacturing capacity that such eligible entity must meet; and shall provide a clear statement of defined Federal Government purpose limited to uses related to increasing domestic manufacturing capacity for antibiotic drugs to address identified supply chain vulnerabilities and challenges to establishing and maintaining domestic manufacturing capacity. Sustainment.—Each contract shall provide for the eligible entity to update the strategic plan required under paragraph (2)(B)(vi) throughout the duration of such contract, as required by the Secretary. Report.—Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 29, 2022] and every year thereafter until the termination or expiration of all such contracts, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report on any activities supported under subsection (a), including— the antibiotic drugs for which the Secretary prioritized awards under subsection (a), including a description of how the Secretary consulted with stakeholders to inform such prioritization; information regarding each contract awarded pursuant to subsection (a), including— the recipient of each such contract, including any recipients of a subaward; the milestone and performance requirements pursuant to each such contract; the duration of each such contract; the amount of funding provided by the Secretary pursuant to each such contract, including any advanced or partial payments; the antibiotic drugs supported through each such contract, including a description of the medical necessity of each such antibiotic drug and any supply chain vulnerabilities, limitations, and related characteristics identified pursuant to subsection (a)(2)(B)(iv) for each such antibiotic drug; and the amount of increased manufacturing capacity for such antibiotic drug that each such contract supports; and a description of how such contracts address supply chain vulnerabilities, including increasing manufacturing capacity of antibiotic drugs in the United States; and a description of the strategic plan submitted pursuant to subsection (a)(2)(B)(vi) by each recipient of an award under subsection (a). Rule of Construction.—Nothing in this section shall be construed— to limit, directly or indirectly, or otherwise impact the private distribution, purchase, or sale of antibiotic drugs or active pharmaceutical ingredients or key starting materials; or to authorize the Secretary to disclose any information that is a trade secret, or other privileged or confidential information subject to section 552(b)(4) of title 5, United States Code, or section 1905 of title 18, United States Code. Definitions.—For purposes of this section: Active pharmaceutical ingredient.—The term ‘active pharmaceutical ingredient’ has the meaning given such term in section 744A of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 379j–41). Antibiotic drug.—The term ‘antibiotic drug’ means an antibacterial or antifungal drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration under section 505(j) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 355(j)) that is of significant priority to providing health care and is medically necessary to have available at all times in an amount adequate to serve patient needs. Key starting material.—The term ‘key starting material’ means any component of a drug that the Secretary determines to be necessary to the safety and effectiveness of the drug. Secretary.—The term ‘Secretary’ means the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Sunset.—The authority to enter into new contracts under this section shall cease to be effective 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 29, 2022], and, beginning on the date that is 8 years after the date of enactment of this Act, this section shall have no force or effect.”

First Responder Anthrax Preparedness

Pub. L. 114–268, Dec. 14, 2016, 130 Stat. 1387, known as the First Responder Anthrax Preparedness Act, which required the Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to carry out a pilot program to provide from the Strategic National Stockpile eligible anthrax vaccines nearing end of their labeled dates of use to consenting emergency response providers at high risk of exposure to anthrax if an attack should occur, expired on the date that is 5 years after Dec. 14, 2016.

Stockpile Functions Transferred

Pub. L. 108–276, § 3(c)(1), (2), July 21, 2004, 118 Stat. 853, provided that: In general.—Except as provided in paragraph (2), there shall be transferred to the Secretary of Health and Human Services the functions, personnel, assets, unexpended balances, and liabilities of the Strategic National Stockpile, including the functions of the Secretary of Homeland Security relating thereto.Exceptions.— Functions.—The transfer of functions pursuant to paragraph (1) shall not include such functions as are explicitly assigned to the Secretary of Homeland Security by this Act [see Short Title of 2004 Amendments note set out under section 201 of this title] (including the amendments made by this Act). Assets and unexpended balances.—The transfer of assets and unexpended balances pursuant to paragraph (1) shall not include the funds appropriated under the heading ‘biodefense countermeasures’ in the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2004 (Public Law 108–90 [117 Stat. 1148]).”

Potassium Iodide

Pub. L. 107–188, title I, § 127, June 12, 2002, 116 Stat. 615, provided that: In General.—Through the national stockpile under section 121 now section 319F–2 of act July 1, 1944, [42 U.S.C. 247d–6b], the President, subject to subsections (b) and (c), shall make available to State and local governments potassium iodide tablets for stockpiling and for distribution as appropriate to public facilities, such as schools and hospitals, in quantities sufficient to provide adequate protection for the population within 20 miles of a nuclear power plant.State and Local Plans.— In general.—Subsection (a) applies with respect to a State or local government, subject to paragraph (2), if the government involved meets the following conditions: Such government submits to the President a plan for the stockpiling of potassium iodide tablets, and for the distribution and utilization of potassium iodide tablets in the event of a nuclear incident. The plan is accompanied by certifications by such government that the government has not already received sufficient quantities of potassium iodide tablets from the Federal Government. Local governments.—Subsection (a) applies with respect to a local government only if, in addition to the conditions described in paragraph (1), the following conditions are met: The State in which the locality involved is located— does not have a plan described in paragraph (1)(A); or has a plan described in such paragraph, but the plan does not address populations at a distance greater than 10 miles from the nuclear power plant involved. The local government has petitioned the State to modify the State plan to address such populations, not exceeding 20 miles from such plant, and 60 days have elapsed without the State modifying the State plan to address populations at the full distance sought by the local government through the petition. The local government has submitted its local plan under paragraph (1)(A) to the State, and the State has approved the plan and certified that the plan is not inconsistent with the State emergency plan. Guidelines.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [June 12, 2002], the President, in consultation with individuals representing appropriate Federal, State, and local agencies, shall establish guidelines for the stockpiling of potassium iodide tablets, and for the distribution and utilization of potassium iodide tablets in the event of a nuclear incident. Such tablets may not be made available under subsection (a) until such guidelines have been established. Information.—The President shall carry out activities to inform State and local governments of the program under this section.Reports.— President.—Not later than six months after the date on which the guidelines under subsection (c) are issued, the President shall submit to the Congress a report— on whether potassium iodide tablets have been made available under subsection (a) or other Federal, State, or local programs, and the extent to which State and local governments have established stockpiles of such tablets; and the measures taken by the President to implement this section.National academy of sciences.— In general.—The President shall request the National Academy of Sciences to enter into an agreement with the President under which the Academy conducts a study to determine what is the most effective and safe way to distribute and administer potassium iodide tablets on a mass scale. If the Academy declines to conduct the study, the President shall enter into an agreement with another appropriate public or nonprofit private entity to conduct the study. Report.—The President shall ensure that, not later than six months after the date of the enactment of this Act [June 12, 2002], the study required in subparagraph (A) is completed and a report describing the findings made in the study is submitted to the Congress. Applicability.—Subsections (a) and (d) cease to apply as requirements if the President determines that there is an alternative and more effective prophylaxis or preventive measures for adverse thyroid conditions that may result from the release of radionuclides from nuclear power plants.”

[Memorandum of President of the United States, July 3, 2007, 72 F.R. 37627, provided:

[Memorandum for the Secretary of Health and Human Services[,] the Secretary of Energy[,] the Secretary of Homeland Security[,] the Chairman of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission[, and] the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, including [section 301 of title 3, United States Code, and section 204(b) of the National Science and Technology Policy, Organization, and Priorities Act of 1976, as amended (42 U.S.C. 6613(b)), the functions of the President under section 127 of the Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002 (Public Law 107–188) (42 U.S.C. 247d–6b note) are assigned as follows:

(1) the function of making a determination under subsection 127(f) of [Public Law 107–188 is assigned to the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy; and

(2) the functions of the President under section 127 of [Public Law 107–188 other than that assigned under subsection 127(f) are assigned to the Chairman of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

[In the performance of such functions the Chairman and the Director should consult each other and the Secretaries of Health and Human Services, Energy, and Homeland Security, as appropriate.

[The Director is authorized and directed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register.]

Executive Documents

Ex. Ord. No. 13944. Combating Public Health Emergencies and Strengthening National Security by Ensuring Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs Are Made in the United States

Ex. Ord. No. 13944, Aug. 6, 2020, 85 F.R. 49929, provided:

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1. Policy. The United States must protect our citizens, critical infrastructure, military forces, and economy against outbreaks of emerging infectious diseases and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats. To achieve this, the United States must have a strong Public Health Industrial Base with resilient domestic supply chains for Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs deemed necessary for the United States. These domestic supply chains must be capable of meeting national security requirements for responding to threats arising from CBRN threats and public health emergencies, including emerging infectious diseases such as COVID–19. It is critical that we reduce our dependence on foreign manufacturers for Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs to ensure sufficient and reliable long-term domestic production of these products, to minimize potential shortages, and to mobilize our Nation’s Public Health Industrial Base to respond to these threats. It is therefore the policy of the United States to:

(a) accelerate the development of cost-effective and efficient domestic production of Essential Medicines and Medical Countermeasures and have adequate redundancy built into the domestic supply chain for Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs;

(b) ensure long-term demand for Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs that are produced in the United States;

(c) create, maintain, and maximize domestic production capabilities for Critical Inputs, Finished Drug Products, and Finished Devices that are essential to protect public safety and human health and to provide for the national defense; and

(d) combat the trafficking of counterfeit Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs over e-commerce platforms and from third-party online sellers involved in the government procurement process.

I am therefore directing each executive department and agency involved in the procurement of Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs (agency) to consider a variety of actions to increase their domestic procurement of Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs, and to identify vulnerabilities in our Nation’s supply chains for these products. Under this order, agencies will have the necessary flexibility to increase their domestic procurement in appropriate and responsible ways, while protecting our Nation’s service members, veterans, and their families from increases in drug prices and without interfering with our Nation’s ability to respond to the spread of COVID–19.

Sec. 2. Maximizing Domestic Production in Procurement. (a) Agencies shall, as appropriate, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, and in consultation with the Commissioner of Food and Drugs (FDA Commissioner) with respect to Critical Inputs, use their respective authorities under section 2304(c) of title 10, United States Code now [10 U.S.C. 3204(a)]; section 3304(a) of title 41, United States Code; and subpart 6.3 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, title 48, Code of Federal Regulations, to conduct the procurement of Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs by:

(i) using procedures to limit competition to only those Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs that are produced in the United States; and

(ii) dividing procurement requirements among two or more manufacturers located in the United States, as appropriate.

(b) Within 90 days of the date of this order [Aug. 6, 2020], the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), in consultation with appropriate agency heads, shall:

(i) review the authority of each agency to limit the online procurement of Essential Medicines and Medical Countermeasures to e-commerce platforms that have:

(A) adopted, and certified their compliance with, the applicable best practices published by the Department of Homeland Security in its Report to the President on “Combating Trafficking in Counterfeit and Pirated Goods,” dated January 24, 2020; and

(B) agreed to permit the Department of Homeland Security’s National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center to evaluate and confirm their compliance with such best practices; and

(ii) report its findings to the President.

(c) Within 90 days of the date of this order, the head of each agency shall, in consultation with the FDA Commissioner, develop and implement procurement strategies, including long-term contracts, consistent with law, to strengthen and mobilize the Public Health Industrial Base in order to increase the manufacture of Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs in the United States.

(d) No later than 30 days after the FDA Commissioner has identified, pursuant to section 3(c) of this order, the initial list of Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs, the United States Trade Representative shall, to the extent permitted by law, take all appropriate action to modify United States Federal procurement product coverage under all relevant Free Trade Agreements and the World Trade Organization Agreement on Government Procurement to exclude coverage of Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs. The United States Trade Representative shall further modify United States Federal procurement product coverage, as appropriate, to reflect updates by the FDA Commissioner. After the modifications to United States Federal procurement coverage take effect, the United States Trade Representative shall make any necessary, corresponding modifications of existing waivers under section 301 of the Trade Agreements Act of 1979 [19 U.S.C. 2511]. The United States Trade Representative shall notify the President, through the Director of OMB, once it has taken the actions described in this subsection.

(e) No later than 60 days after the FDA Commissioner has identified, pursuant to section 3(c) of this order, the initial list of Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs, and notwithstanding the public interest exception in subsection (f)(i)(1) of this section, the Secretary of Defense shall, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, use his authority under section 225.872–1(c) of the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement to restrict the procurement of Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs to domestic sources and to reject otherwise acceptable offers of such products from sources in Qualifying Countries in instances where considered necessary for national defense reasons.

(f) Subsections (a), (d), and (e) of this section shall not apply:

(i) where the head of the agency determines in writing, with respect to a specific contract or order, that (1) their application would be inconsistent with the public interest; (2) the relevant Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs are not produced in the United States in sufficient and reasonably available commercial quantities and of a satisfactory quality; or (3) their application would cause the cost of the procurement to increase by more than 25 percent, unless applicable law requires a higher percentage, in which case such higher percentage shall apply;

(ii) with respect to the procurement of items that are necessary to respond to any public health emergency declared under section 319 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 247d), any major disaster or emergency declared under the Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.), or any national emergency declared under the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.).

(g) To the maximum extent permitted by law, any public interest determination made pursuant to section 2(f)(i)(1) of this order shall be construed to maximize the procurement and use of Essential Medicines and Medical Countermeasures produced in the United States.

(h) The head of an agency who makes any determination pursuant to section 2(f)(i) of this order shall submit an annual report to the President, through the Director of OMB and the Assistant to the President for Trade and Manufacturing Policy, describing the justification for each such determination.

Sec. 3. Identifying Vulnerabilities in Supply Chains. (a) Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the FDA Commissioner and in consultation with the Director of OMB, shall take all necessary and appropriate action, consistent with law, to identify vulnerabilities in the supply chain for Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs and to mitigate those vulnerabilities, including by:

(i) considering proposing regulations or revising guidance on the collection of the following information from manufacturers of Essential Medicines and Medical Countermeasures as part of the application and regulatory approval process:

(A) the sources of Finished Drug Products, Finished Devices, and Critical Inputs;

(B) the use of any scarce Critical Inputs; and

(C) the date of the last FDA inspection of the manufacturer’s regulated facilities and the results of such inspection;

(ii) entering into written agreements, pursuant to section 20.85 of title 21, Code of Federal Regulations, with the National Security Council, Department of State, Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, and other interested agencies, as appropriate, to disclose records regarding the security and vulnerabilities of the supply chains for Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs;

(iii) recommending to the President any changes in applicable law that may be necessary to accomplish the objectives of this subsection; and

(iv) reviewing FDA regulations to determine whether any of those regulations may be a barrier to domestic production of Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs, and by advising the President whether such regulations should be repealed or amended.

(b) The Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the FDA Commissioner, shall take all appropriate action, consistent with applicable law, to:

(i) accelerate FDA approval or clearance, as appropriate, for domestic producers of Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs, including those needed for infectious disease and CBRN threat preparedness and response;

(ii) issue guidance with recommendations regarding the development of Advanced Manufacturing techniques;

(iii) negotiate with countries to increase site inspections and increase the number of unannounced inspections of regulated facilities manufacturing Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs; and

(iv) refuse admission, as appropriate, to imports of Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs if the facilities in which they are produced refuse or unreasonably delay an inspection.

(c) Within 90 days of the date of this order, and periodically updated as appropriate, the FDA Commissioner, in consultation with the Director of OMB, the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response in the Department of Health and Human Services, the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, and the Director of the Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy, shall identify the list of Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and their Critical Inputs that are medically necessary to have available at all times in an amount adequate to serve patient needs and in the appropriate dosage forms.

(d) Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Director of OMB, shall take all necessary and appropriate action, consistent with law, to identify vulnerabilities in the supply chain for Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs necessary to meet the unique needs of the United States Armed Forces and to mitigate the vulnerabilities identified in subsection (a) of this section. The Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the FDA Commissioner, the Director of OMB, and the Director of the Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy a list of defense-specific Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs that are medically necessary to have available for defense use in adequate amounts and in appropriate dosage forms. The Secretary of Defense shall, as appropriate, periodically update this list.

Sec. 4. Streamlining Regulatory Requirements. Consistent with law, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall take all appropriate action to identify relevant requirements and guidance documents that can be streamlined to provide for the development of Advanced Manufacturing facilities and the expeditious domestic production of Critical Inputs, including by accelerating siting and permitting approvals.

Sec. 5. Priorities and Allocation of Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs. The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall, as appropriate and in accordance with the delegation of authority under Executive Order 13603 of March 16, 2012 (National Defense Resources Preparedness) [50 U.S.C. 4553 note], use the authority under section 101 of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended (50 U.S.C. 4511), to prioritize the performance of Federal Government contracts or orders for Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, or Critical Inputs over performance of any other contracts or orders, and to allocate such materials, services, and facilities as the Secretary deems necessary or appropriate to promote the national defense.

Sec. 6. Reporting. (a) No later than December 15, 2021, and annually thereafter, the head of each agency shall submit a report to the President, through the Director of OMB and the Assistant to the President for Trade and Manufacturing Policy, detailing, for the preceding three fiscal years:

(i) the Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs procured by the agency;

(ii) the agency’s annual itemized and aggregated expenditures for all Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs;

(iii) the sources of these products and inputs; and

(iv) the agency’s plan to support domestic production of such products and inputs in the next fiscal year.

(b) Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Commerce shall submit a report to the Director of OMB, the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, the Director of the National Economic Council, and the Director of the Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy, describing any change in the status of the Public Health Industrial Base and recommending initiatives to strengthen the Public Health Industrial Base.

(c) To the maximum extent permitted by law, and with the redaction of any information protected by law from disclosure, each agency’s report shall be published in the Federal Register and on each agency’s official website.

Sec. 7. Definitions. As used in this order:

(a) “Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient” has the meaning set forth in section 207.1 of title 21, Code of Federal Regulations.

(b) “Advanced Manufacturing” means any new medical product manufacturing technology that can improve drug quality, address shortages of medicines, and speed time to market, including continuous manufacturing and 3D printing.

(c) “API Starting Material” means a raw or intermediate material that is used in the manufacturing of an API, that is incorporated as a significant structural fragment into the structure of the API, and that is determined by the FDA Commissioner to be relevant in assessing the safety and effectiveness of Essential Medicines and Medical Countermeasures.

(d) “Critical Inputs” means API, API Starting Material, and other ingredients of drugs and components of medical devices that the FDA Commissioner determines to be critical in assessing the safety and effectiveness of Essential Medicines and Medical Countermeasures.

(e) “Essential Medicines” are those Essential Medicines deemed necessary for the United States pursuant to section 3(c) of this order.

(f) “Finished Device” has the meaning set forth in section 820.3(l) of title 21, Code of Federal Regulations.

(g) “Finished Drug Product” has the meaning set forth in section 207.1 of title 21, Code of Federal Regulations.

(h) “Healthcare and Public Health Sector” means the critical infrastructure sector identified in Presidential Policy Directive 21 of February 12, 2013 (Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience), and the National Infrastructure Protection Plan of 2013.

(i) An Essential Medicine or Medical Countermeasure is “produced in the United States” if the Critical Inputs used to produce the Essential Medicine or Medical Countermeasures are produced in the United States and if the Finished Drug Product or Finished Device, are manufactured, prepared, propagated, compounded, or processed, as those terms are defined in section 360(a)(1) of title 21, United States Code, in the United States.

(j) “Medical Countermeasures” means items that meet the definition of “qualified countermeasure” in section 247d–6a(a)(2)(A) of title 42, United States Code; “qualified pandemic or epidemic product” in section 247d–6d(i)(7) of title 42, United States Code; “security countermeasure” in section 247d–6b(c)(1)(B) of title 42, United States Code; or personal protective equipment described in part 1910 of title 29, Code of Federal Regulations.

(k) “Public Health Industrial Base” means the facilities and associated workforces within the United States, including research and development facilities, that help produce Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs for the Healthcare and Public Health Sector.

(l) “Qualifying Countries” has the meaning set forth in section 225.003, Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement.

Sec. 8. Rule of Construction. Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(a) the ability of State, local, tribal, or territorial governments to timely procure necessary resources to respond to any public health emergency declared under section 319 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 247d), any major disaster or emergency declared under the Stafford Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.), or any national emergency declared under the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.);

(b) the ability or authority of any agency to respond to the spread of COVID–19; or

(c) the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to take all necessary steps, including those necessary to implement the policy set forth in section 1 of this order, to ensure that service members, veterans, and their families continue to have full access to Essential Medicines at reasonable and affordable prices.

Sec. 9. Severability. If any provision of this order, or the application of any provision to any person or circumstance, is held to be invalid, the remainder of this order and the application of any of its other provisions to any other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby.

Sec. 10. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii) the functions of the Director of OMB relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

Ex. Ord. No. 13962. Ensuring Access to United States Government COVID–19 Vaccines

Ex. Ord. No. 13962, Dec. 8, 2020, 85 F.R. 79777, provided:

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1. Purpose. Through unprecedented collaboration across the United States Government, industry, and international partners, the United States expects to soon have safe and effective COVID–19 vaccines available for the American people. To ensure the health and safety of our citizens, to strengthen our economy, and to enhance the security of our Nation, we must ensure that Americans have priority access to COVID–19 vaccines developed in the United States or procured by the United States Government (“United States Government COVID–19 Vaccines”).

Sec. 2. Policy. It is the policy of the United States to ensure Americans have priority access to free, safe, and effective COVID–19 vaccines. After ensuring the ability to meet the vaccination needs of the American people, it is in the interest of the United States to facilitate international access to United States Government COVID–19 Vaccines.

Sec. 3. American Access to COVID–19 Vaccines. (a) The Secretary of Health and Human Services, through Operation Warp Speed and with the support of the Secretary of Defense, shall ensure safe and effective COVID–19 vaccines are available to the American people, coordinating with public and private entities—including State, territorial, and tribal governments, where appropriate—to enable the timely distribution of such vaccines.

(b) The Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense and the heads of other executive departments and agencies (agencies), as appropriate, shall ensure that Americans have priority access to United States Government COVID–19 Vaccines, and shall ensure that the most vulnerable United States populations have first access to such vaccines.

(c) The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall ensure that a sufficient supply of COVID–19 vaccine doses is available for all Americans who choose to be vaccinated in order to safeguard America from COVID–19.

Sec. 4. International Access to United States Government COVID–19 Vaccines. After determining that there exists a sufficient supply of COVID–19 vaccine doses for all Americans who choose to be vaccinated, as required by section 3(b) of this order, the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, the Chief Executive Officer of the United States International Development Finance Corporation, the Chairman and President of the Export-Import Bank of the United States, and the heads of other agencies, shall facilitate international access to United States Government COVID–19 Vaccines for allies, partners, and others, as appropriate and consistent with applicable law.

Sec. 5. Coordination of International Access to United States Government COVID–19 Vaccines. Within 30 days of the date of this order [Dec. 8, 2020], the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs shall coordinate development of an interagency strategy for the implementation of section 4 of this order.

Sec. 6. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

Ex. Ord. No. 14001. A Sustainable Public Health Supply Chain

Ex. Ord. No. 14001, Jan. 21, 2021, 86 F.R. 7219, provided:

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended (50 U.S.C. 4501 et seq.), sections 319 and 361 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 247d and 264), sections 306 and 307 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5149 and 5150), and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1. Purpose. The Federal Government must act urgently and effectively to combat the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID–19) pandemic. To that end, this order directs immediate actions to secure supplies necessary for responding to the pandemic, so that those supplies are available, and remain available, to the Federal Government and State, local, Tribal, and territorial authorities, as well as to America’s health care workers, health systems, and patients. These supplies are vital to the Nation’s ability to reopen its schools and economy as soon and safely as possible.

Sec. 2. Immediate Inventory of Response Supplies and Identification of Emergency Needs. (a) The Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the heads of appropriate executive departments and agencies (agencies), in coordination with the COVID–19 Response Coordinator, shall:

(i) immediately review the availability of critical materials, treatments, and supplies needed to combat COVID–19 (pandemic response supplies), including personal protective equipment (PPE) and the resources necessary to effectively produce and distribute tests and vaccines at scale; and

(ii) assess, including by reviewing prior such assessments, whether United States industry can be reasonably expected to provide such supplies in a timely manner.

(b) Where a review and assessment described in section 2(a)(i) of this order identifies shortfalls in the provision of pandemic response supplies, the head of the relevant agency shall:

(i) promptly revise its operational assumptions and planning factors being used to determine the scope and prioritization, acquisition, and distribution of such supplies; and

(ii) take appropriate action using all available legal authorities, including the Defense Production Act, to fill those shortfalls as soon as practicable by acquiring additional stockpiles, improving distribution systems, building market capacity, or expanding the industrial base.

(c) Upon completing the review and assessment described in section 2(a)(i) of this order, the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall provide to the President, through the COVID–19 Response Coordinator, a report on the status and inventory of the Strategic National Stockpile.

(d) The Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the heads of any other agencies relevant to inventorying pandemic response supplies shall, as soon as practicable, provide to the President, through the COVID–19 Response Coordinator, a report consisting of:

(i) an assessment of the need for, and an inventory of current supplies of, key pandemic response supplies;

(ii) an analysis of their agency’s capacity to produce, provide, and distribute pandemic response supplies;

(iii) an assessment of their agency’s procurement of pandemic response supplies on the availability of such supplies on the open market;

(iv) an account of all existing or ongoing agency actions, contracts, and investment agreements regarding pandemic response supplies;

(v) a list of any gaps between the needs identified in section 2(a)(i) of this order and supply chain delivery, and recommendations on how to close such gaps; and

(vi) a compilation and summary of their agency’s existing distribution and prioritization plans for pandemic response supplies, which shall include any assumptions or planning factors used to determine such needs and any recommendations for changes to such assumptions or factors.

(e) The COVID–19 Response Coordinator, in coordination with the heads of appropriate agencies, shall review the report described in section 2(d) of this order and submit recommendations to the President that address:

(i) whether additional use of the Defense Production Act, by the President or agencies exercising delegated authority under the Act, would be helpful; and

(ii) the extent to which liability risk, regulatory requirements, or other factors impede the development, production, and procurement of pandemic response supplies, and any actions that can be taken, consistent with law, to remove those impediments.

(f) The heads of agencies responsible for completing the requirements of this section, as appropriate and in coordination with the COVID–19 Response Coordinator, shall consult with State, local, Tribal, and territorial authorities, as well as with other entities critical to assessing the availability of and need for pandemic response supplies.

Sec. 3. Pricing. To take steps to address the pricing of pandemic response supplies:

(a) The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall promptly recommend to the President, through the COVID–19 Response Coordinator, whether any changes should be made to the authorities delegated to the Secretary by Executive Order 13910 of March 23, 2020 (Preventing Hoarding of Health and Medical Resources To Respond to the Spread of COVID–19) [50 U.S.C. 4512 note], with respect to scarce materials or materials the supply of which would be threatened by accumulation for the purpose of hoarding or price gouging.

(b) The Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall promptly review and provide to the President, through the COVID–19 Response Coordinator, recommendations for how to address the pricing of pandemic response supplies, including whether and how to direct the use of reasonable pricing clauses in Federal contracts and investment agreements, or other related vehicles, and whether to use General Services Administration Schedules to facilitate State, local, Tribal, and territorial government buyers and compacts in purchasing pandemic response supplies using Federal supply schedules.

Sec. 4. Pandemic Supply Chain Resilience Strategy. Within 180 days of the date of this order [Jan. 21, 2021], the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs (APNSA), the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, the COVID–19 Response Coordinator, and the heads of any agencies or entities selected by the APNSA and COVID–19 Response Coordinator, shall provide to the President a strategy to design, build, and sustain a long-term capability in the United States to manufacture supplies for future pandemics and biological threats. This strategy shall include:

(a) mechanisms to respond to emergency supply needs of State, local, Tribal, and territorial authorities, which should include standards and processes to prioritize requests and delivery and to ensure equitable distribution based on public health criteria;

(b) an analysis of the role of foreign supply chains in America’s pandemic supply chain, America’s role in the international public health supply chain, and options for strengthening and better coordinating global supply chain systems in future pandemics;

(c) mechanisms to address points of failure in the supply chains and to ensure necessary redundancies;

(d) the roles of the Strategic National Stockpile and other Federal and military stockpiles in providing pandemic supplies on an ongoing or emergency basis, including their roles in allocating supplies across States, localities, tribes, and territories, sustaining supplies during a pandemic, and in contingency planning to ensure adequate preparedness for future pandemics and public health emergencies;

(e) approaches to assess and maximize the value and efficacy of public/private partnerships and the value of Federal investments in latent manufacturing capacity; and

(f) an approach to develop a multi-year implementation plan for domestic production of pandemic supplies.

Sec. 5. Access to Strategic National Stockpile. The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall consult with Tribal authorities and take steps, as appropriate and consistent with applicable law, to facilitate access to the Strategic National Stockpile for federally recognized Tribal governments, Indian Health Service healthcare providers, Tribal health authorities, and Urban Indian Organizations.

Sec. 6. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

Ex. Ord. No. 14336. Ensuring American Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Resilience by Filling the Strategic Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Reserve

Ex. Ord. No. 14335, Aug. 13, 2025, 90 F.R. 40223, provided:

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:

Section 1. Purpose. During my first term, my Administration acted to protect the health and security of the American people by restoring capacity for domestic production of essential pharmaceutical products. Executive Order 13944 of August 6, 2020 (Combatting Public Health Emergencies and Strengthening National Security by Ensuring Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs Are Made in the United States) [set out above], directed certain executive departments and agencies (agencies) to consider a variety of actions to increase their domestic procurement of Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs, as defined in section 7 of that order, and to identify supply chain vulnerabilities. The Food and Drug Administration published a list of Essential Medicines, Medical Countermeasures, and Critical Inputs in October 2020. The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) within the Department of Health and Human Services later reduced the list to 86 essential medicines.

Nearly two in five prescription finished drug products are made in the United States, including many of the essential medicines. However, when it comes to Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), the biologically active components of finished drug products, only about 10 percent of the APIs by volume for the finished drug products used in the United States are made here.

During my first term, my first Administration created a Strategic Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Reserve (SAPIR) to stockpile APIs. Stockpiling APIs is advantageous as APIs are generally lower-cost and have longer shelf lives than the finished drug products they make. Filling the SAPIR will also insulate the United States from the concentration of foreign, sometimes adversary, nations in the world-wide supply of the Key Starting Materials used to make APIs. Moreover, Government purchases of APIs to fill the SAPIR can encourage more domestic production of APIs.

Unfortunately, the Biden Administration failed to advance the goal of ensuring domestic sources for essential medicines and their precursors despite spending billions of dollars on efforts to secure supply chains. Domestic production and procurement did not increase and the SAPIR is nearly empty.

Sec. 2. Filling the SAPIR with APIs for the Most Critical Medicines. (a) Within 30 days of the date of this order [Aug. 13, 2025], the ASPR shall develop a list, in consultation with agencies with scientific expertise, the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy (APEP), and the Assistant to the President and Homeland Security Advisor (APHSA), of approximately 26 drugs that are especially critical to the health and security interests of the Nation (the critical drugs) and an accounting of existing, available funds that can be utilized, consistent with statutory authorities, to finance the preparation and opening of the SAPIR repository and to obtain and maintain the 6-month supply of APIs for the critical drugs referenced in subsection (c) of this section shall be provided to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The OMB shall provide assistance to the Secretary of Health and Human Services to facilitate the repurposing of available funds, consistent with law.

(b) Within 120 days of the date of this order and subject to the availability of funds identified pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, the ASPR shall, in coordination with such other agencies as are necessary, take all measures to ready the existing SAPIR repository so that it can begin receiving and maintaining APIs.

(c) Subject to the availability of funds identified pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, the ASPR shall obtain a 6-month supply of the APIs needed to make the critical drugs to fill the SAPIR, with a preference for obtaining domestically manufactured APIs if possible. The ASPR shall place such APIs within the SAPIR repository no later than 30 days after the repository is certified by the ASPR as ready to receive and maintain APIs.

Sec. 3. Ensuring SAPIR Resilience. (a) Within 90 days of the date of this order, the ASPR shall provide the APHSA, the APEP, and the OMB with an update to the ASPR’s 2022 list of 86 essential medicines and medical countermeasures, along with a plan to:

(i) obtain from domestic manufacturers, where possible;

(ii) store; and

(iii) maintain a 6-month supply of APIs for drugs on the updated essential medicines list if they have not already been addressed in the list of critical drugs identified pursuant to section 2(a) of this order.

(b) The plan provided pursuant to subsection (a) of this section shall include a proposal and cost estimate for opening a second SAPIR repository in the United States within 1 year of the date of this order.

Sec. 4. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

(d) The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the Department of Health and Human Services.

Designation and Authorization To Perform Functions Under Section 319F–2 of the Public Health Service Act

Memorandum of President of the United States, Oct. 21, 2004, 69 F.R. 70349, provided:

Memorandum for the Director of the Office of Management and Budget

By the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 301 of title 3, United States Code, I hereby direct you to perform the functions vested in the President under section 319F–2(c)(6) of the Public Health Service Act, 42 U.S.C. 247d–6b(c)(6).

Any reference in this memorandum to the provision of any Act shall be deemed to include references to any hereafter-enacted provision of law that is the same or substantially the same as such provision.

You are authorized and directed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register.

§247d–6d. Targeted liability protections for pandemic and epidemic products and security countermeasures

42 U.S.C. § 247d–6d

(a)
Liability protections—
(1)
In general— Subject to the other provisions of this section, a covered person shall be immune from suit and liability under Federal and State law with respect to all claims for loss caused by, arising out of, relating to, or resulting from the administration to or the use by an individual of a covered countermeasure if a declaration under subsection (b) has been issued with respect to such countermeasure.
(2)
Scope of claims for loss—
(A)
Loss— For purposes of this section, the term “loss” means any type of loss, including—
(i)
death;
(ii)
physical, mental, or emotional injury, illness, disability, or condition;
(iii)
fear of physical, mental, or emotional injury, illness, disability, or condition, including any need for medical monitoring; and
(iv)
loss of or damage to property, including business interruption loss.

Each of clauses (i) through (iv) applies without regard to the date of the occurrence, presentation, or discovery of the loss described in the clause.

(B)
Scope— The immunity under paragraph (1) applies to any claim for loss that has a causal relationship with the administration to or use by an individual of a covered countermeasure, including a causal relationship with the design, development, clinical testing or investigation, manufacture, labeling, distribution, formulation, packaging, marketing, promotion, sale, purchase, donation, dispensing, prescribing, administration, licensing, or use of such countermeasure.
(3)
Certain conditions— Subject to the other provisions of this section, immunity under paragraph (1) with respect to a covered countermeasure applies only if—
(A)
the countermeasure was administered or used during the effective period of the declaration that was issued under subsection (b) with respect to the countermeasure;
(B)
the countermeasure was administered or used for the category or categories of diseases, health conditions, or threats to health specified in the declaration; and
(C)
in addition, in the case of a covered person who is a program planner or qualified person with respect to the administration or use of the countermeasure, the countermeasure was administered to or used by an individual who—
(i)
was in a population specified by the declaration; and
(ii)
was at the time of administration physically present in a geographic area specified by the declaration or had a connection to such area specified in the declaration.
(4)
Applicability of certain conditions— With respect to immunity under paragraph (1) and subject to the other provisions of this section:
(A)
In the case of a covered person who is a manufacturer or distributor of the covered countermeasure involved, the immunity applies without regard to whether such countermeasure was administered to or used by an individual in accordance with the conditions described in paragraph (3)(C).
(B)
In the case of a covered person who is a program planner or qualified person with respect to the administration or use of the covered countermeasure, the scope of immunity includes circumstances in which the countermeasure was administered to or used by an individual in circumstances in which the covered person reasonably could have believed that the countermeasure was administered or used in accordance with the conditions described in paragraph (3)(C).
(5)
Effect of distribution method— The provisions of this section apply to a covered countermeasure regardless of whether such countermeasure is obtained by donation, commercial sale, or any other means of distribution, except to the extent that, under paragraph (2)(E) of subsection (b), the declaration under such subsection provides that subsection (a) applies only to covered countermeasures obtained through a particular means of distribution.
(6)
Rebuttable presumption— For purposes of paragraph (1), there shall be a rebuttable presumption that any administration or use, during the effective period of the emergency declaration by the Secretary under subsection (b), of a covered countermeasure shall have been for the category or categories of diseases, health conditions, or threats to health with respect to which such declaration was issued.
(b)
Declaration by Secretary—
(1)
Authority to issue declaration— Subject to paragraph (2), if the Secretary makes a determination that a disease or other health condition or other threat to health constitutes a public health emergency, or that there is a credible risk that the disease, condition, or threat may in the future constitute such an emergency, the Secretary may make a declaration, through publication in the Federal Register, recommending, under conditions as the Secretary may specify, the manufacture, testing, development, distribution, administration, or use of one or more covered countermeasures, and stating that subsection (a) is in effect with respect to the activities so recommended.
(2)
Contents— In issuing a declaration under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall identify, for each covered countermeasure specified in the declaration
(A)
the category or categories of diseases, health conditions, or threats to health for which the Secretary recommends the administration or use of the countermeasure;
(B)
the period or periods during which, including as modified by paragraph (3), subsection (a) is in effect, which period or periods may be designated by dates, or by milestones or other description of events, including factors specified in paragraph (6);
(C)
the population or populations of individuals for which subsection (a) is in effect with respect to the administration or use of the countermeasure (which may be a specification that such subsection applies without geographic limitation to all individuals);
(D)
the geographic area or areas for which subsection (a) is in effect with respect to the administration or use of the countermeasure (which may be a specification that such subsection applies without geographic limitation), including, with respect to individuals in the populations identified under subparagraph (C), a specification, as determined appropriate by the Secretary, of whether the declaration applies only to individuals physically present in such areas or whether in addition the declaration applies to individuals who have a connection to such areas, which connection is described in the declaration; and
(E)
whether subsection (a) is effective only to a particular means of distribution as provided in subsection (a)(5) for obtaining the countermeasure, and if so, the particular means to which such subsection is effective.
(3)
Effective period of declaration—
(A)
Flexibility of period— The Secretary may, in describing periods under paragraph (2)(B), have different periods for different covered persons to address different logistical, practical or other differences in responsibilities.
(B)
Additional time to be specified— In each declaration under paragraph (1), the Secretary, after consulting, to the extent the Secretary deems appropriate, with the manufacturer of the covered countermeasure, shall also specify a date that is after the ending date specified under paragraph (2)(B) and that allows what the Secretary determines is—
(i)
a reasonable period for the manufacturer to arrange for disposition of the covered countermeasure, including the return of such product to the manufacturer; and
(ii)
a reasonable period for covered persons to take such other actions as may be appropriate to limit administration or use of the covered countermeasure.
(C)
Additional period for certain strategic national stockpile countermeasures— With respect to a covered countermeasure that is in the stockpile under section 247d–6b of this title, if such countermeasure was the subject of a declaration under paragraph (1) at the time that it was obtained for the stockpile, the effective period of such declaration shall include a period when the countermeasure is administered or used pursuant to a distribution or release from the stockpile.
(4)
Amendments to declaration— The Secretary may through publication in the Federal Register amend any portion of a declaration under paragraph (1). Such an amendment shall not retroactively limit the applicability of subsection (a) with respect to the administration or use of the covered countermeasure involved.
(5)
Certain disclosures— In publishing a declaration under paragraph (1) in the Federal Register, the Secretary is not required to disclose any matter described in section 552(b) of title 5.
(6)
Factors to be considered— In deciding whether and under what circumstances or conditions to issue a declaration under paragraph (1) with respect to a covered countermeasure, the Secretary shall consider the desirability of encouraging the design, development, clinical testing or investigation, manufacture, labeling, distribution, formulation, packaging, marketing, promotion, sale, purchase, donation, dispensing, prescribing, administration, licensing, and use of such countermeasure.
(7)
Judicial review— No court of the United States, or of any State, shall have subject matter jurisdiction to review, whether by mandamus or otherwise, any action by the Secretary under this subsection.
(8)
Preemption of State law— During the effective period of a declaration under subsection (b), or at any time with respect to conduct undertaken in accordance with such declaration, no State or political subdivision of a State may establish, enforce, or continue in effect with respect to a covered countermeasure any provision of law or legal requirement that—
(A)
is different from, or is in conflict with, any requirement applicable under this section; and
(B)
relates to the design, development, clinical testing or investigation, formulation, manufacture, distribution, sale, donation, purchase, marketing, promotion, packaging, labeling, licensing, use, any other aspect of safety or efficacy, or the prescribing, dispensing, or administration by qualified persons of the covered countermeasure, or to any matter included in a requirement applicable to the covered countermeasure under this section or any other provision of this chapter, or under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act [21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.].
(9)
Report to Congress— Within 30 days after making a declaration under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate committees of the Congress a report that provides an explanation of the reasons for issuing the declaration and the reasons underlying the determinations of the Secretary with respect to paragraph (2). Within 30 days after making an amendment under paragraph (4), the Secretary shall submit to such committees a report that provides the reasons underlying the determination of the Secretary to make the amendment.
(c)
Definition of willful misconduct—
(1)
Definition—
(A)
In general— Except as the meaning of such term is further restricted pursuant to paragraph (2), the term “willful misconduct” shall, for purposes of subsection (d), denote an act or omission that is taken—
(i)
intentionally to achieve a wrongful purpose;
(ii)
knowingly without legal or factual justification; and
(iii)
in disregard of a known or obvious risk that is so great as to make it highly probable that the harm will outweigh the benefit.
(B)
Rule of construction— The criterion stated in subparagraph (A) shall be construed as establishing a standard for liability that is more stringent than a standard of negligence in any form or recklessness.
(2)
Authority to promulgate regulatory definition—
(A)
In general— The Secretary, in consultation with the Attorney General, shall promulgate regulations, which may be promulgated through interim final rules, that further restrict the scope of actions or omissions by a covered person that may qualify as “willful misconduct” for purposes of subsection (d).
(B)
Factors to be considered— In promulgating the regulations under this paragraph, the Secretary, in consultation with the Attorney General, shall consider the need to define the scope of permissible civil actions under subsection (d) in a way that will not adversely affect the public health.
(C)
Temporal scope of regulations— The regulations under this paragraph may specify the temporal effect that they shall be given for purposes of subsection (d).
(D)
Initial rulemaking— Within 180 days after December 30, 2005, the Secretary, in consultation with the Attorney General, shall commence and complete an initial rulemaking process under this paragraph.
(3)
Proof of willful misconduct— In an action under subsection (d), the plaintiff shall have the burden of proving by clear and convincing evidence willful misconduct by each covered person sued and that such willful misconduct caused death or serious physical injury.
(4)
Defense for acts or omissions taken pursuant to Secretary’s declaration— Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a program planner or qualified person shall not have engaged in “willful misconduct” as a matter of law where such program planner or qualified person acted consistent with applicable directions, guidelines, or recommendations by the Secretary regarding the administration or use of a covered countermeasure that is specified in the declaration under subsection (b), provided either the Secretary, or a State or local health authority, was provided with notice of information regarding serious physical injury or death from the administration or use of a covered countermeasure that is material to the plaintiff’s alleged loss within 7 days of the actual discovery of such information by such program planner or qualified person.
(5)
Exclusion for regulated activity of manufacturer or distributor—
(A)
In general— If an act or omission by a manufacturer or distributor with respect to a covered countermeasure, which act or omission is alleged under subsection (e)(3)(A) to constitute willful misconduct, is subject to regulation by this chapter or by the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act [21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.], such act or omission shall not constitute “willful misconduct” for purposes of subsection (d) if—
(i)
neither the Secretary nor the Attorney General has initiated an enforcement action with respect to such act or omission; or
(ii)
such an enforcement action has been initiated and the action has been terminated or finally resolved without a covered remedy.

Any action or proceeding under subsection (d) shall be stayed during the pendency of such an enforcement action.

(B)
Definitions— For purposes of this paragraph, the following terms have the following meanings:
(i)
Enforcement action— The term “enforcement action” means a criminal prosecution, an action seeking an injunction, a seizure action, a civil monetary proceeding based on willful misconduct, a mandatory recall of a product because voluntary recall was refused, a proceeding to compel repair or replacement of a product, a termination of an exemption under section 505(i) or 520(g) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act [21 U.S.C. 355(i), 360j(g)], a debarment proceeding, an investigator disqualification proceeding where an investigator is an employee or agent of the manufacturer, a revocation, based on willful misconduct, of an authorization under section 564 of such Act [21 U.S.C. 360bbb–3], or a suspension or withdrawal, based on willful misconduct, of an approval or clearance under chapter V of such Act [21 U.S.C. 351 et seq.] or of a licensure under section 262 of this title.
(ii)
Covered remedy— The term “covered remedy” means an outcome—
(I)
that is a criminal conviction, an injunction, or a condemnation, a civil monetary payment, a product recall, a repair or replacement of a product, a termination of an exemption under section 505(i) or 520(g) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act [21 U.S.C. 355(i), 360j(g)], a debarment, an investigator disqualification, a revocation of an authorization under section 564 of such Act [21 U.S.C. 360bbb–3], or a suspension or withdrawal of an approval or clearance under chapter 51 of such Act or of a licensure under section 262 of this title; and
(II)
that results from a final determination by a court or from a final agency action.
(iii)
Final— The terms “final” and “finally”—
(I)
with respect to a court determination, or to a final resolution of an enforcement action that is a court determination, mean a judgment from which an appeal of right cannot be taken or a voluntary or stipulated dismissal; and
(II)
with respect to an agency action, or to a final resolution of an enforcement action that is an agency action, mean an order that is not subject to further review within the agency and that has not been reversed, vacated, enjoined, or otherwise nullified by a final court determination or a voluntary or stipulated dismissal.
(C)
Rules of construction—
(i)
In general— Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed—
(I)
to affect the interpretation of any provision of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act [21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.], of this chapter, or of any other applicable statute or regulation; or
(II)
to impair, delay, alter, or affect the authority, including the enforcement discretion, of the United States, of the Secretary, of the Attorney General, or of any other official with respect to any administrative or court proceeding under this chapter, under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act [21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.], under title 18, or under any other applicable statute or regulation.
(ii)
Mandatory recalls— A mandatory recall called for in the declaration is not a Food and Drug Administration enforcement action.
(d)
Exception to immunity of covered persons—
(1)
In general— Subject to subsection (f), the sole exception to the immunity from suit and liability of covered persons set forth in subsection (a) shall be for an exclusive Federal cause of action against a covered person for death or serious physical injury proximately caused by willful misconduct, as defined pursuant to subsection (c), by such covered person. For purposes of section 2679(b)(2)(B) of title 28, such a cause of action is not an action brought for violation of a statute of the United States under which an action against an individual is otherwise authorized.
(2)
Persons who can sue— An action under this subsection may be brought for wrongful death or serious physical injury by any person who suffers such injury or by any representative of such a person.
(e)
Procedures for suit—
(1)
Exclusive Federal jurisdiction— Any action under subsection (d) shall be filed and maintained only in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia.
(2)
Governing law— The substantive law for decision in an action under subsection (d) shall be derived from the law, including choice of law principles, of the State in which the alleged willful misconduct occurred, unless such law is inconsistent with or preempted by Federal law, including provisions of this section.
(3)
Pleading with particularity— In an action under subsection (d), the complaint shall plead with particularity each element of the plaintiff’s claim, including—
(A)
each act or omission, by each covered person sued, that is alleged to constitute willful misconduct relating to the covered countermeasure administered to or used by the person on whose behalf the complaint was filed;
(B)
facts supporting the allegation that such alleged willful misconduct proximately caused the injury claimed; and
(C)
facts supporting the allegation that the person on whose behalf the complaint was filed suffered death or serious physical injury.
(4)
Verification, certification, and medical records—
(A)
In general— In an action under subsection (d), the plaintiff shall verify the complaint in the manner stated in subparagraph (B) and shall file with the complaint the materials described in subparagraph (C). A complaint that does not substantially comply with subparagraphs (B) and (C) shall not be accepted for filing and shall not stop the running of the statute of limitations.
(B)
Verification requirement—
(i)
In general— The complaint shall include a verification, made by affidavit of the plaintiff under oath, stating that the pleading is true to the knowledge of the deponent, except as to matters specifically identified as being alleged on information and belief, and that as to those matters the plaintiff believes it to be true.
(ii)
Identification of matters alleged upon information and belief— Any matter that is not specifically identified as being alleged upon the information and belief of the plaintiff, shall be regarded for all purposes, including a criminal prosecution, as having been made upon the knowledge of the plaintiff.
(C)
Materials required— In an action under subsection (d), the plaintiff shall file with the complaint—
(i)
an affidavit, by a physician who did not treat the person on whose behalf the complaint was filed, certifying, and explaining the basis for such physician’s belief, that such person suffered the serious physical injury or death alleged in the complaint and that such injury or death was proximately caused by the administration or use of a covered countermeasure; and
(ii)
certified medical records documenting such injury or death and such proximate causal connection.
(5)
Three-judge court— Any action under subsection (d) shall be assigned initially to a panel of three judges. Such panel shall have jurisdiction over such action for purposes of considering motions to dismiss, motions for summary judgment, and matters related thereto. If such panel has denied such motions, or if the time for filing such motions has expired, such panel shall refer the action to the chief judge for assignment for further proceedings, including any trial. Section 1253 of title 28 and paragraph (3) of subsection (b) of section 2284 of title 28 shall not apply to actions under subsection (d).
(6)
Civil discovery—
(A)
Timing— In an action under subsection (d), no discovery shall be allowed—
(i)
before each covered person sued has had a reasonable opportunity to file a motion to dismiss;
(ii)
in the event such a motion is filed, before the court has ruled on such motion; and
(iii)
in the event a covered person files an interlocutory appeal from the denial of such a motion, before the court of appeals has ruled on such appeal.
(B)
Standard— Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the court in an action under subsection (d) shall permit discovery only with respect to matters directly related to material issues contested in such action, and the court shall compel a response to a discovery request (including a request for admission, an interrogatory, a request for production of documents, or any other form of discovery request) under Rule 37, Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, only if the court finds that the requesting party needs the information sought to prove or defend as to a material issue contested in such action and that the likely benefits of a response to such request equal or exceed the burden or cost for the responding party of providing such response.
(7)
Reduction in award of damages for collateral source benefits—
(A)
In general— In an action under subsection (d), the amount of an award of damages that would otherwise be made to a plaintiff shall be reduced by the amount of collateral source benefits to such plaintiff.
(B)
Provider of collateral source benefits not to have lien or subrogation— No provider of collateral source benefits shall recover any amount against the plaintiff or receive any lien or credit against the plaintiff’s recovery or be equitably or legally subrogated to the right of the plaintiff in an action under subsection (d).
(C)
Collateral source benefit defined— For purposes of this paragraph, the term “collateral source benefit” means any amount paid or to be paid in the future to or on behalf of the plaintiff, or any service, product, or other benefit provided or to be provided in the future to or on behalf of the plaintiff, as a result of the injury or wrongful death, pursuant to—
(i)
any State or Federal health, sickness, income-disability, accident, or workers’ compensation law;
(ii)
any health, sickness, income-disability, or accident insurance that provides health benefits or income-disability coverage;
(iii)
any contract or agreement of any group, organization, partnership, or corporation to provide, pay for, or reimburse the cost of medical, hospital, dental, or income disability benefits; or
(iv)
any other publicly or privately funded program.
(8)
Noneconomic damages— In an action under subsection (d), any noneconomic damages may be awarded only in an amount directly proportional to the percentage of responsibility of a defendant for the harm to the plaintiff. For purposes of this paragraph, the term “noneconomic damages” means damages for losses for physical and emotional pain, suffering, inconvenience, physical impairment, mental anguish, disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of society and companionship, loss of consortium, hedonic damages, injury to reputation, and any other nonpecuniary losses.
(9)
Rule 11 sanctions— Whenever a district court of the United States determines that there has been a violation of Rule 11 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure in an action under subsection (d), the court shall impose upon the attorney, law firm, or parties that have violated Rule 11 or are responsible for the violation, an appropriate sanction, which may include an order to pay the other party or parties for the reasonable expenses incurred as a direct result of the filing of the pleading, motion, or other paper that is the subject of the violation, including a reasonable attorney’s fee. Such sanction shall be sufficient to deter repetition of such conduct or comparable conduct by others similarly situated, and to compensate the party or parties injured by such conduct.
(10)
Interlocutory appeal— The United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit shall have jurisdiction of an interlocutory appeal by a covered person taken within 30 days of an order denying a motion to dismiss or a motion for summary judgment based on an assertion of the immunity from suit conferred by subsection (a) or based on an assertion of the exclusion under subsection (c)(5).
(f)
Actions by and against the United States— Nothing in this section shall be construed to abrogate or limit any right, remedy, or authority that the United States or any agency thereof may possess under any other provision of law or to waive sovereign immunity or to abrogate or limit any defense or protection available to the United States or its agencies, instrumentalities, officers, or employees under any other law, including any provision of chapter 171 of title 28 (relating to tort claims procedure).
(g)
Severability— If any provision of this section, or the application of such provision to any person or circumstance, is held to be unconstitutional, the remainder of this section and the application of such remainder to any person or circumstance shall not be affected thereby.
(h)
Rule of construction concerning National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program— Nothing in this section, or any amendment made by the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act, shall be construed to affect the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program under subchapter XIX of this chapter.
(i)
Definitions— In this section:
(1)
Covered countermeasure— The term “covered countermeasure” means—
(A)
(B)
(C)
a drug (as such term is defined in section 201(g)(1) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 321(g)(1)), biological product (as such term is defined by section 262(i) of this title), or device (as such term is defined by section 201(h) of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 321(h)) that is authorized for emergency use in accordance with section 564, 564A, or 564B of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act [21 U.S.C. 360bbb–3, 360bbb–3a, 360bbb–3b]; or
(D)
a respiratory protective device that is approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health under part 84 of title 42, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulations), and that the Secretary determines to be a priority for use during a public health emergency declared under section 247d of this title.
(2)
Covered person— The term “covered person”, when used with respect to the administration or use of a covered countermeasure, means—
(A)
the United States; or
(B)
a person or entity that is—
(i)
a manufacturer of such countermeasure;
(ii)
a distributor of such countermeasure;
(iii)
a program planner of such countermeasure;
(iv)
a qualified person who prescribed, administered, or dispensed such countermeasure; or
(v)
an official, agent, or employee of a person or entity described in clause (i), (ii), (iii), or (iv).
(3)
Distributor— The term “distributor” means a person or entity engaged in the distribution of drugs, biologics, or devices, including but not limited to manufacturers; repackers; common carriers; contract carriers; air carriers; own-label distributors; private-label distributors; jobbers; brokers; warehouses, and wholesale drug warehouses; independent wholesale drug traders; and retail pharmacies.
(4)
Manufacturer— The term “manufacturer” includes—
(A)
a contractor or subcontractor of a manufacturer;
(B)
a supplier or licenser of any product, intellectual property, service, research tool, or component or other article used in the design, development, clinical testing, investigation, or manufacturing of a covered countermeasure; and
(C)
any or all of the parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, successors, and assigns of a manufacturer.
(5)
Person— The term “person” includes an individual, partnership, corporation, association, entity, or public or private corporation, including a Federal, State, or local government agency or department.
(6)
Program planner— The term “program planner” means a State or local government, including an Indian tribe, a person employed by the State or local government, or other person who supervised or administered a program with respect to the administration, dispensing, distribution, provision, or use of a security countermeasure or a qualified pandemic or epidemic product, including a person who has established requirements, provided policy guidance, or supplied technical or scientific advice or assistance or provides a facility to administer or use a covered countermeasure in accordance with a declaration under subsection (b).
(7)
Qualified pandemic or epidemic product— The term “qualified pandemic or epidemic product” means a drug (as such term is defined in section 201(g)(1) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 321(g)(1)),2biological product (as such term is defined by section 262(i) of this title), or device (as such term is defined by section 201(h) of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 321(h))2 that is—
(A)
(i)
a product manufactured, used, designed, developed, modified, licensed, or procured—
(I)
to diagnose, mitigate, prevent, treat, or cure a pandemic or epidemic; or
(II)
to limit the harm such pandemic or epidemic might otherwise cause;
(ii)
a product manufactured, used, designed, developed, modified, licensed, or procured to diagnose, mitigate, prevent, treat, or cure a serious or life-threatening disease or condition caused by a product described in clause (i); or
(iii)
a product or technology intended to enhance the use or effect of a drug, biological product, or device described in clause (i) or (ii); and
(B)
(i)
approved or cleared under chapter V of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act [21 U.S.C. 351 et seq.] or licensed under section 262 of this title;
(ii)
the object of research for possible use as described by subparagraph (A) and is the subject of an exemption under section 505(i) or 520(g) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act [21 U.S.C. 355(i), 360j(g)]; or
(iii)
authorized for emergency use in accordance with section 564, 564A, or 564B of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act [21 U.S.C. 360bbb–3, 360bbb–3a, 360bbb–3b].
(8)
Qualified person— The term “qualified person”, when used with respect to the administration or use of a covered countermeasure, means—
(A)
a licensed health professional or other individual who is authorized to prescribe, administer, or dispense such countermeasures under the law of the State in which the countermeasure was prescribed, administered, or dispensed; or
(B)
a person within a category of persons so identified in a declaration by the Secretary under subsection (b).
(9)
Security countermeasure— The term “security countermeasure” has the meaning given such term in section 247d–6b(c)(1)(B) of this title.
(10)
Serious physical injury— The term “serious physical injury” means an injury that—
(A)
is life threatening;
(B)
results in permanent impairment of a body function or permanent damage to a body structure; or
(C)
necessitates medical or surgical intervention to preclude permanent impairment of a body function or permanent damage to a body structure.

Footnotes

  1. 1 So in original. Probably should be chapter “V”.
  2. 2 So in original. A third closing parenthesis probably should appear.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319F–3, as added Pub. L. 109–148, div. C, § 2, Dec. 30, 2005, 119 Stat. 2818; amended Pub. L. 113–5, title IV, § 402(g)(2), (3), Mar. 13, 2013, 127 Stat. 196; Pub. L. 116–127, div. F, § 6005, Mar. 18, 2020, 134 Stat. 207; Pub. L. 116–136, div. A, title III, § 3103, Mar. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 361.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, referred to in subsecs. (b)(8)(B), (c)(5)(A), (B)(i), (ii)(I), (C)(i), and (i)(7)(B)(i), is act June 25, 1938, ch. 675, 52 Stat. 1040, which is classified generally to chapter 9 (§ 301 et seq.) of Title 21, Food and Drugs. Chapter V of the Act is classified generally to subchapter V (§ 351 et seq.) of chapter 9 of Title 21. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 301 of Title 21 and Tables.

The Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, referred to in subsec. (e)(6)(B), (9), are set out in the Appendix to Title 28, Judiciary and Judicial Procedure.

The Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act, referred to in subsec. (h), is div. C of Pub. L. 109–148, Dec. 30, 2005, 119 Stat. 2818, which enacted this section, section 247d–6e of this title, and provisions set out as a note under section 201 of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title of 2005 Amendment note set out under section 201 of this title and Tables.

Amendments

2020—Subsec. (i)(1)(D). Pub. L. 116–136 amended subpar. (D) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (D) read as follows: “a personal respiratory protective device that is—

“(i) approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health under part 84 of title 42, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations);

“(ii) subject to the emergency use authorization issued by the Secretary on March 2, 2020, or subsequent emergency use authorizations, pursuant to section 564 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (authorizing emergency use of personal respiratory protective devices during the COVID–19 outbreak); and

“(iii) used during the period beginning on January 27, 2020, and ending on October 1, 2024, in response to the public health emergency declared on January 31, 2020, pursuant to section 247d of this title as a result of confirmed cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV).”

Pub. L. 116–127 added subpar. (D).

2013—Subsec. (i)(1)(C). Pub. L. 113–5, § 402(g)(3)(A), inserted “, 564A, or 564B” after “564”.

Subsec. (i)(7)(A)(iii). Pub. L. 113–5, § 402(g)(2), added cl. (iii).

Subsec. (i)(7)(B)(iii). Pub. L. 113–5, § 402(g)(3)(B), inserted “, 564A, or 564B” after “564”.

§247d–6e. Covered countermeasure process

42 U.S.C. § 247d–6e

(a)
Establishment of Fund— Upon the issuance by the Secretary of a declaration under section 247d–6d(b) of this title, there is hereby established in the Treasury an emergency fund designated as the “Covered Countermeasure Process Fund” for purposes of providing timely, uniform, and adequate compensation to eligible individuals for covered injuries directly caused by the administration or use of a covered countermeasure pursuant to such declaration, which Fund shall consist of such amounts designated as emergency appropriations under section 402 of H. Con. Res. 95 of the 109th Congress, this emergency designation shall remain in effect through October 1, 2006.
(b)
Payment of compensation—
(1)
In general— If the Secretary issues a declaration under 247d–6d(b) of this title, the Secretary shall, after amounts have by law been provided for the Fund under subsection (a), provide compensation to an eligible individual for a covered injury directly caused by the administration or use of a covered countermeasure pursuant to such declaration.
(2)
Elements of compensation— The compensation that shall be provided pursuant to paragraph (1) shall have the same elements, and be in the same amount, as is prescribed by sections 239c, 239d, and 239e of this title in the case of certain individuals injured as a result of administration of certain countermeasures against smallpox, except that section 239e(a)(2)(B) of this title shall not apply.
(3)
Rule of construction— Neither reasonable and necessary medical benefits nor lifetime total benefits for lost employment income due to permanent and total disability shall be limited by section 239e of this title.
(4)
Determination of eligibility and compensation— Except as provided in this section, the procedures for determining, and for reviewing a determination of, whether an individual is an eligible individual, whether such individual has sustained a covered injury, whether compensation may be available under this section, and the amount of such compensation shall be those stated in section 239a of this title (other than in subsection (d)(2) of such section), in regulations issued pursuant to that section, and in such additional or alternate regulations as the Secretary may promulgate for purposes of this section. In making determinations under this section, other than those described in paragraph (5)(A) as to the direct causation of a covered injury, the Secretary may only make such determination based on compelling, reliable, valid, medical and scientific evidence.
(5)
Covered countermeasure injury table—
(A)
In general— The Secretary shall by regulation establish a table identifying covered injuries that shall be presumed to be directly caused by the administration or use of a covered countermeasure and the time period in which the first symptom or manifestation of onset of each such adverse effect must manifest in order for such presumption to apply. The Secretary may only identify such covered injuries, for purpose of inclusion on the table, where the Secretary determines, based on compelling, reliable, valid, medical and scientific evidence that administration or use of the covered countermeasure directly caused such covered injury.
(B)
Amendments— The provisions of section 239b of this title (other than a provision of subsection (a)(2) of such section that relates to accidental vaccinia inoculation) shall apply to the table established under this section.
(C)
Judicial review— No court of the United States, or of any State, shall have subject matter jurisdiction to review, whether by mandamus or otherwise, any action by the Secretary under this paragraph.
(6)
Meanings of terms— In applying sections 239a, 239b, 239c, 239d, and 239e of this title for purposes of this section—
(A)
the terms “vaccine” and “smallpox vaccine” shall be deemed to mean a covered countermeasure;
(B)
the terms “smallpox vaccine injury table” and “table established under section 239b of this title” shall be deemed to refer to the table established under paragraph (4); and
(C)
other terms used in those sections shall have the meanings given to such terms by this section.
(c)
Voluntary program— The Secretary shall ensure that a State, local, or Department of Health and Human Services plan to administer or use a covered countermeasure is consistent with any declaration under 247d–6d of this title and any applicable guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and that potential participants are educated with respect to contraindications, the voluntary nature of the program, and the availability of potential benefits and compensation under this part.
(d)
Exhaustion; exclusivity; election—
(1)
Exhaustion— Subject to paragraph (5), a covered individual may not bring a civil action under section 247d–6d(d) of this title against a covered person (as such term is defined in section 247d–6d(i)(2) of this title) unless such individual has exhausted such remedies as are available under subsection (a), except that if amounts have not by law been provided for the Fund under subsection (a), or if the Secretary fails to make a final determination on a request for benefits or compensation filed in accordance with the requirements of this section within 240 days after such request was filed, the individual may seek any remedy that may be available under section 247d–6d(d) of this title.
(2)
Tolling of statute of limitations— The time limit for filing a civil action under section 247d–6d(d) of this title for an injury or death shall be tolled during the pendency of a claim for compensation under subsection (a).
(3)
Rule of construction— This section shall not be construed as superseding or otherwise affecting the application of a requirement, under chapter 171 of title 28, to exhaust administrative remedies.
(4)
Exclusivity— The remedy provided by subsection (a) shall be exclusive of any other civil action or proceeding for any claim or suit this section encompasses, except for a proceeding under section 247d–6d of this title.
(5)
Election— If under subsection (a) the Secretary determines that a covered individual qualifies for compensation, the individual has an election to accept the compensation or to bring an action under section 247d–6d(d) of this title. If such individual elects to accept the compensation, the individual may not bring such an action.
(e)
Definitions— For purposes of this section, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
(1)
Covered countermeasure— The term “covered countermeasure” has the meaning given such term in section 247d–6d of this title.
(2)
Covered individual— The term “covered individual”, with respect to administration or use of a covered countermeasure pursuant to a declaration, means an individual—
(A)
who is in a population specified in such declaration, and with respect to whom the administration or use of the covered countermeasure satisfies the other specifications of such declaration; or
(B)
who uses the covered countermeasure, or to whom the covered countermeasure is administered, in a good faith belief that the individual is in the category described by subparagraph (A).
(3)
Covered injury— The term “covered injury” means serious physical injury or death.
(4)
Declaration— The term “declaration” means a declaration under section 247d–6d(b) of this title.
(5)
Eligible individual— The term “eligible individual” means an individual who is determined, in accordance with subsection (b), to be a covered individual who sustains a covered injury.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319F–4, as added Pub. L. 109–148, div. C, § 3, Dec. 30, 2005, 119 Stat. 2829.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

H. Con. Res. 95 of the 109th Congress, referred to in subsec. (a), is H. Con. Res. 95, Apr. 28, 2005, 119 Stat. 3633, which is not classified to the Code.

§247d–6f. Provision of medical countermeasures to Indian programs and facilities

42 U.S.C. § 247d–6f

In the event that the Secretary deploys the contents of the Strategic National Stockpile under section 247d–6b(a) of this title, or otherwise distributes medical countermeasures to States to respond to a public health emergency declared by the Secretary under section 247d of this title, the Secretary shall, in consultation with the applicable States, make such contents or countermeasures directly available to Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations (as such terms are defined in section 5304 of title 25), which may include through health programs or facilities operated by the Indian Health Service, that are affected by such public health emergency.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319F–5, as added Pub. L. 117–328, div. FF, title II, § 2408(b), Dec. 29, 2022, 136 Stat. 5789.)

§247d–7a. Grants regarding training and education of certain health professionals

42 U.S.C. § 247d–7a

(a)
In general— The Secretary may make awards of grants and cooperative agreements to appropriate public and nonprofit private health or educational entities, including health professions schools and programs as defined in section 295p of this title, for the purpose of providing low-interest loans, partial scholarships, partial fellowships, revolving loan funds, or other cost-sharing forms of assistance for the education and training of individuals in any category of health professions for which there is a shortage that the Secretary determines should be alleviated in order to prepare for or respond effectively to bioterrorism and other public health emergencies.
(b)
Authority regarding non-Federal contributions— The Secretary may require as a condition of an award under subsection (a) that a grantee under such subsection provide non-Federal contributions toward the purpose described in such subsection.
(c)
Authorization of appropriations— For the purpose of carrying out this section, there are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 2002 through 2006.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319H, as added Pub. L. 107–188, title I, § 106, June 12, 2002, 116 Stat. 607.)

§247d–7b. Emergency system for advance registration of volunteer health professional

42 U.S.C. § 247d–7b

(a)
In general— Not later than 12 months after December 19, 2006, the Secretary shall link existing State verification systems to maintain a single national interoperable network of systems, each system being maintained by a State or group of States, for the purpose of verifying the credentials and licenses of health care professionals who volunteer to provide health services during a public health emergency. Such health care professionals may include members of the National Disaster Medical System, members of the Medical Reserve Corps, and individual health care professionals.
(b)
Requirements— The interoperable network of systems established under subsection (a) (referred to in this section as the “verification network”) shall include—
(1)
with respect to each volunteer health professional included in the verification network—
(A)
information necessary for the rapid identification of, and communication with, such professionals; and
(B)
the credentials, certifications, licenses, and relevant training of such individuals; and
(2)
the name of each member of the Medical Reserve Corps, the National Disaster Medical System, and any other relevant federally-sponsored or administered programs determined necessary by the Secretary.
(c)
Other assistance— The Secretary may make grants and provide technical assistance to States and other public or nonprofit private entities for activities relating to the verification network developed under subsection (a).
(d)
Accessibility— The Secretary shall ensure that the verification network is electronically accessible by State, local, and tribal health departments and can be linked with the identification cards under section 300hh–15 of this title.
(e)
Confidentiality— The Secretary shall establish and require the application of and compliance with measures to ensure the effective security of, integrity of, and access to the data included in the verification network.
(f)
Coordination— The Secretary shall coordinate with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Secretary of Homeland Security to assess the feasibility of integrating the verification network under this section with the VetPro system of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the National Emergency Responder Credentialing System of the Department of Homeland Security. The Secretary shall, if feasible, integrate the verification network under this section with such VetPro system and the National Emergency Responder Credentialing System.
(g)
Updating of information— The States that are participants in the verification network shall, on at least a quarterly basis, work with the Director to provide for the updating of the information contained in the verification network.
(h)
Clarification— Inclusion of a health professional in the verification network shall not constitute appointment of such individual as a Federal employee for any purpose, either under section 300hh–11(c) of this title or otherwise. Such appointment may only be made under section 300hh–11 or 300hh–15 of this title.
(i)
Health care provider licenses— The Secretary shall encourage States to establish and implement mechanisms to waive the application of licensing requirements applicable to health professionals, who are seeking to provide medical services (within their scope of practice), during a national, State, local, or tribal public health emergency upon verification that such health professionals are licensed and in good standing in another State and have not been disciplined by any State health licensing or disciplinary board. In order to inform the development of such mechanisms by States, the Secretary shall make available information and material provided by States that have developed mechanisms to waive the application of licensing requirements to applicable health professionals seeking to provide medical services during a public health emergency. Such information shall be made publicly available in a manner that does not compromise national security.
(j)
Rule of construction— This section may not be construed as authorizing the Secretary to issue requirements regarding the provision by the States of credentials, licenses, accreditations, or hospital privileges.
(k)
Authorization of appropriations— For the purpose of carrying out this section, there are authorized to be appropriated $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2023.
Notes, amendments, and revision history

(July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title III, § 319I, as added Pub. L. 107–188, title I, § 107, June 12, 2002, 116 Stat. 608; amended Pub. L. 109–417, title III, § 303(b), Dec. 19, 2006, 120 Stat. 2857; Pub. L. 113–5, title II, § 203(b)(1), Mar. 13, 2013, 127 Stat. 175; Pub. L. 116–22, title II, § 207(a), June 24, 2019, 133 Stat. 926.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2019—Pub. L. 116–22, § 207(a)(1), substituted “volunteer health professional” for “health professions volunteers” in section catchline.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–22, § 207(a)(2), inserted at end “Such health care professionals may include members of the National Disaster Medical System, members of the Medical Reserve Corps, and individual health care professionals.”

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 116–22, § 207(a)(3), inserted at end “In order to inform the development of such mechanisms by States, the Secretary shall make available information and material provided by States that have developed mechanisms to waive the application of licensing requirements to applicable health professionals seeking to provide medical services during a public health emergency. Such information shall be made publicly available in a manner that does not compromise national security.”

Subsec. (k). Pub. L. 116–22, § 207(a)(4), substituted “2019 through 2023” for “2014 through 2018”.

2013—Subsec. (k). Pub. L. 113–5 substituted “$5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2014 through 2018” for “$2,000,000 for fiscal year 2002, and such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 2003 through 2011”.

2006—Subsecs. (a), (b). Pub. L. 109–417, § 303(b)(2), added subsecs. (a) and (b) and struck out former subsecs. (a) and (b) which related to establishment of a verification system and provisions regarding its promptness and efficiency.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 109–417, § 303(b)(3), substituted “network” for “system”.

Subsecs. (d) to (k). Pub. L. 109–417, § 303(b)(1), (4), (5), added subsecs. (d) to (i), redesignated former subsecs. (e) and (f) as (j) and (k), respectively, substituted “2011” for “2006” in subsec. (k), and struck out heading and text of former subsec. (d). Text read as follows: “The Secretary may encourage each State to provide legal authority during a public health emergency for health professionals authorized in another State to provide certain health services to provide such health services in the State.”