Letter to the Hon. Pete Gaynor, Admin. of the Federal Emergency Management Agency - Allred Urges Swift Action from FEMA on Personal Protection Equipment and Testing

Letter

Dear Administrator Gaynor:

As states and territories, tribes, and local governments across the country move swiftly to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial that their efforts be supported by a coordinated federal response. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has the resources and expertise necessary to address some of the challenges facing those on the frontlines of this outbreak. We write to urge swift action by your agency, and a response that matches the magnitude of this public health emergency.

In recent days, the number of COVID-19 cases in the United States has skyrocketed, causing hospitals and healthcare workers around the country to experience an unprecedented shortage of medical supplies. There is also a growing concern that our hospital system is unprepared for the influx of patients that are expected in the coming weeks. Lastly, there are logistical problems with COVID-19 testing as testing supply has yet to meet the demand of those who may need them.

As you begin to carry out your duties, we respectfully request answers to the following questions:

1. What is FEMA's plan to get personal protection equipment (PPE) to healthcare workers around the country as soon as possible? Does FEMA plan on tracking the PPE equipment it dispenses so that resources can be redirected to areas with the most need?
2. How many temporary hospital facilities does FEMA plan on constructing? How many beds will these facilities provide, and where will these facilities be located?
3. How does FEMA plan to partner with nonprofit and faith-based organizations to direct assistance to high need areas across the country?
4. Will companies that have volunteered to mass produce medical equipment retain the ability to set prices until the President fully invokes the Defense Production Act?

Thank you for your prompt attention to this request.