Delegating Additional Authority Under the Defense Production Act With Respect to Health and Medical Resources To Respond to the Spread of COVID-19

What it means

This order expands government authority to address COVID-19 medical supply shortages. It delegates Defense Production Act powers to the Secretaries of Health and Human Services and Homeland Security to boost production of critical medical resources like protective equipment and ventilators.

Expected impact

• Increased domestic production of essential medical supplies through government-backed loans and purchases
• Enhanced coordination between private businesses to manufacture and distribute health resources
• Greater federal control over allocation of medical supplies to areas with highest need
• Faster response capabilities as officials can bypass certain regulatory requirements during the national emergency
• Strengthened supply chains for protective equipment, ventilators, and other critical healthcare resources