Brooks Leads Passage of H.R. 1791 in Homeland Security Markup

Statement

Congresswoman Susan W. Brooks (R-IN5) led today's passage of House Resolution 1791 -- the Medical Preparedness Allowable Use Act -- during a markup session of the House Committee on Homeland Security. The bill, introduced by the Congresswoman and Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL12), ensures homeland security grant dollars are available for medical preparedness activities, including the purchase of vital medical equipment and supplies used by first responders.

"The importance of medical preparedness was on full display in the aftermath of the horrific Boston Marathon bombings," Rep. Brooks said. "This bill provides clear legislative authority for the continued use of Homeland Security Grants to support vital training exercises and the purchase of equipment that protects first responders and citizens in the event of a catastrophic event such as a chemical or biological attack. I'm proud to be working with Congressman Bilirakis, as well as Congressmen King and Palazzo, on this common-sense solution that will assist preparedness and response efforts in communities across the nation."

The bill does not include any new funding not already provided through current grant programs. It is supported by a coalition of first responder groups including the Emergency Services Coalition for Medical Preparedness, International Association of Emergency Managers and the International Association of Fire Chiefs

"Experts have repeatedly noted that the threat of a WMD attack is real," said Bilirakis. "We must take steps now to ensure the necessary plans, medication and equipment are available to protect the public, especially emergency response providers, in the event of an attack. The legislation passed by the Committee today recognizes the continued importance of ensuring medical preparedness activities remain allowable grant uses. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House to get this bill signed into law."

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