Bipartisan bill aims to boost U.S. disease testing after COVID-19 shortfalls

U.S. Congresswoman Kim Schrier (WA-08)

WASHINGTON — A bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced legislation on Thursday aimed at strengthening the nation's diagnostic testing capabilities during public health emergencies, drawing on lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Diagnostics Testing Preparedness Plan Act, spearheaded by Rep. Kim Schrier, D-Wash., would require the Department of Health and Human Services to develop and maintain a strategic plan for rapid deployment of diagnostic tests during health crises.

"Diagnostics are an essential part of public health preparedness," said Schrier, a physician representing Washington's 8th congressional district. She pointed to disparities in testing capabilities during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that "South Korea was doing thousands of drive-thru tests daily" while the United States struggled to provide adequate testing.

The legislation, co-sponsored by Representatives Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa), Carson (D-Ind.), and Crenshaw (R-Texas), would establish a framework for collaboration between government agencies and private sector stakeholders in developing, procuring, and distributing both laboratory and at-home diagnostic tests.

Rep. Miller-Meeks, also a physician, emphasized the critical role of testing in public health response. "During the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw how critical diagnostic tests were for the public health response," she said.

The bill has garnered support from lawmakers representing districts with significant healthcare industry presence. Rep. Carson, whose district includes Roche Diagnostics, highlighted the broader implications for public health preparedness.

"Whether it's a bad flu season or the outbreak of a new infectious disease like the bird flu, our bill will ensure my district and cities across the country are better coordinated and better prepared to tackle the world's most serious health problems," Carson said.

The legislation comes as public health officials continue to emphasize the importance of robust testing infrastructure in managing both routine health concerns and emerging threats. The Department of Health and Human Services would be required to regularly update the strategic plan to address evolving public health challenges.

The bill is currently awaiting committee assignment.