Domestic Security Using Production Partnerships and Lessons from Yesterday Act of 2023 or the Domestic SUPPLY Act of 2023 This bill establishes a program and sets out other requirements to promote domestic manufacturing of personal protective equipment (PPE) for infectious diseases and other public health emergencies. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) must establish a program to enter into purchasing agreements for PPE produced domestically by manufacturers that are majority-owned and -operated by U.S. citizens. HHS must coordinate with the Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security on this program. In addition, the federal government must only procure, subject to limited exceptions, PPE that is produced domestically to prevent the transmission of an infectious disease. If using federal funds, states or localities must also procure PPE domestically. Further, the bill requires HHS to consult with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration on a report about changes to federal requirements for PPE during the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of those changes on health care workers who cared for patients in 2020 and 2021.
The proposed legislation asserts that the federal government and state localities utilizing federal funding will only procure PPE manufactured in the United States, thereby stimulating domestic manufacturing and potentially reducing dependence on foreign supply chains. This requirement is set to encourage local businesses focused on PPE production, aligning with national efforts to bolster self-reliance in health preparedness. Additionally, the bill enforces quality standards that manufacturers must adhere to, ensuring that the PPE meets safety guidelines established by federal health authorities.
House Bill 170, known as the Domestic Security Using Production Partnerships and Lessons from Yesterday Act of 2023, establishes a program aimed at enhancing the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE) produced domestically in response to public health emergencies. The bill mandates the Secretary of Health and Human Services to form partnerships with eligible manufacturers to ensure that adequate quantities of qualified PPE are accessible during national health crises. This initiative emphasizes the necessity of American-made products in safeguarding public health, particularly in light of challenges faced during previous health emergencies, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, this legislation could raise concerns regarding the potential for increased costs and limitations on suppliers if domestic manufacturers struggle to meet the demand or quality requirements. Opposition may emerge from those worried about the impact on small businesses that might not qualify for these partnerships or those who fear a disruption in available resources during time-sensitive health emergencies. Furthermore, an emphasis on domestic production could lead to discussions about balancing quality, availability, and cost-effectiveness in the context of urgent health care needs.