Georgia Mountain News

Reps. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA), Marc Veasey (D-TX), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), and Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA) have reintroduced the State Strategic Stockpile Act in Washington, D.C. This legislation aims to support states in establishing and maintaining stockpiles of essential drugs, vaccines, and medical supplies for public health emergencies or major disasters.

Recent natural events such as hurricanes affecting Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and the wildfires in California underscore the necessity of statewide emergency response resources. The proposed pilot program will complement the federal Strategic National Stockpile by allowing states to acquire products specific to their needs.

Rep. Carter emphasized the importance of preventing future shortages: “As a result of a pandemic and devastating hurricanes, Georgia’s health care providers and patients have struggled to access critical medical supplies. We can never let this happen again.”

Rep. Veasey highlighted the broader implications for national security: “National security is about more than defense; it’s about protecting the well-being of every American, especially in times of crisis.”

Dr. Miller-Meeks pointed out the urgency for state-level preparedness: “We’ve seen firsthand how critical it is for states to be prepared for public health emergencies—whether it’s a pandemic, natural disaster, or another crisis."

Rep. Houlahan stressed the need for localized resources: "In the event of another national public health emergency, the nation must be prepared...each state needs its own resources close at hand."

Rep. Mackenzie noted lessons learned from recent crises: “Covid reminded us that first responders rely on their states to secure the resources that they need in order to save lives.”

The bill seeks bipartisan support to enhance state readiness for future public health challenges.