Braun, Kaine Introduce Bill To Promote Access To Medical Countermeasures

WASHINGTON — Senator Mike Braun and Senator Tim Kaine have introduced the bipartisan Promoting Access to Critical Countermeasures by Ensuring Specimen Samples (ACCESS) to Diagnostics Act, which supports quicker research and development of medical countermeasures, including diagnostic tests, vaccines, and therapeutics, in response to emerging infectious diseases.

This bill would require the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services to issue guidance for public and private sector entities’ quick access to specimen samples to ensure a greater supply of diagnostic tests and other countermeasures.

“Diagnostic tests have been a critical component to curbing the spread of COVID-19 and other viruses, and have enabled Americans to stay safe and continue to go to work, school, and attend social gatherings. It’s imperative that diagnostic test developers have quick access to viral samples in order to respond to the growing demand for COVID-19 and other diagnostics, particularly as new variants continue to emerge.”—Senator Mike Braun

“I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan legislation to simplify the process to access specimen samples, like COVID samples, resulting in the faster development of lifesaving products — such as tests, vaccines, and treatments — for people in Virginia and across the nation. Expanding access to specimen samples is critical to stop the spread of viruses, protect our communities, and help Virginians get back to work.”—Senator Tim Kaine