Response to the US House Request for Information (RFI) on PAHPA Reauthorization, as Submitted by the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security

We recommend that Congress require ASPR to incorporate the purchase and stockpiling of next-generation reusable respirators into the HPP guidance for its cooperative agreements to improve the surge capacity of the health care system, to respond to large- scale emergencies and disasters, and to make it less susceptible to supply chain shocks. [...] Then CDC/HHS could make the data available to state and local authorities simultaneously, removing the burden on states and localities to establish separate requirements and mechanisms, and relieving the burdens on data providers to comply with the variable and duplicative requirements of today’s patchwork system. [...] To build upon Congress’ actions in the FY23 Omnibus under the heading “Ensuring the Availability of Next Generation Masks and Respirators,” we recommend that Congress require ASPR to assess its stockpile of reusable respirators within the SNS and conduct scenario-based modeling studies to determine the appropriate amount needed for the stockpile. [...] To ensure compliance with regards to international exports and imports, Congress should require ASPR to collaborate with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) and the Department of Commerce (DOC) in crafting such a regulatory regime. [...] Interfacing among executive agencies, including, but not limited to, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of State (DOS), the Department of Justice, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Commerce (DOC).