GOP Doctors Caucus Offers Amendments to COVID-19 Spending Bill to Protect Patients, Strengthen Emergency Preparedness

Strategic Insights -

The House Rules Committee meeting saw the GOP Doctors Caucus offer nine amendments to the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which were rejected by House Democrats. The caucus, led by Dr. Brad Wenstrup, Dr. Andy Harris, and Dr. Michael Burgess, aimed to incorporate measured policy proposals to improve COVID-19 spending, access to quality care, education, emergency preparedness, and protection for healthcare heroes. Despite their efforts, Democrats opted for a completely partisan spending bill.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rep. Michael Burgess's Amendment #1 ensures the FDA considers real-life data outside of clinical trials when evaluating standard approval for products granted Emergency Use Authorization.
  • Rep. Michael Burgess's Amendment #2 provides $35 billion for the Provider Relief Fund to support healthcare providers struggling during the pandemic.
  • Rep. Larry Bucshon's Amendment offers Good Samaritan liability protections for medical volunteers in all public health emergencies.
  • Rep. Brad Wenstrup's Amendment protects healthcare heroes from frivolous lawsuits while providing liability protections for COVID-19 care in long-term care facilities.
  • Rep. John Joyce's Amendment requires the Medicare trustee to confirm that the bill does not negatively impact the Medicare Trust Fund or reduce payments to healthcare providers and rural hospitals.
  • Rep. Neal Dunn's Amendment sets aside $100 million for the FDA to review additional applications for COVID-19 therapeutics.
  • Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks' Amendment funds diagnostic standardized testing to evaluate student comprehension levels after a year of COVID-19, while ensuring no penalties for school districts conducting this testing.
  • Rep. Buddy Carter's Amendment aims to bolster national stockpile reserves through the Strengthening America's Strategic National Stockpile Act.
  • Rep. Drew Ferguson's Amendment redirects obligated funds towards vaccines for rural and underserved seniors, as well as corresponding mental health programs, to address the challenges and mental health issues caused by COVID-19.
  • Rep. Tom Reed's Amendment makes nursing home funds conditional on governors providing accurate data reporting, and requires GAO to investigate any discrepancies.

Statistics:

  • $35 billion is allocated for the Provider Relief Fund to support healthcare providers struggling during the pandemic.
  • $100 million is reserved for the FDA to review additional applications for COVID-19 therapeutics.
  • $130 billion is provided in funding for K-12 schools, with Rep. Ashley Hinson's Amendment aiming to require governors to produce a comprehensive plan to re-open schools safely.
  • 9 amendments were offered by the GOP Doctors Caucus to the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.
  • The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 aims to allocate funds to various initiatives, including healthcare, education, and emergency preparedness.

Sources:

  • United States House of Representatives -- Congressman Brad Wenstrup (OH-02)
  • GOP Doctors Caucus statement
  • American Rescue Plan Act of 2021
  • Strengthening America's Strategic National Stockpile Act (H.R. 7574)
  • Congressional testimony and committee meetings
  • House Rules Committee meeting records