Top Appropriators Granger, Cole on Coronavirus Response

Feb 12, 2020
Press Release

WASHINGTON – Today, top Appropriations Committee Republican Kay Granger (R-TX) and Vice Ranking Member and Labor-HHS-Education Ranking Member Tom Cole (R-OK) released the following statement after a briefing by Administration officials on the response to the coronavirus that originated in China in 2019.

“For years, I have fought to ensure that funds are available in case of a public health emergency, and I was assured the Administration has the resources to address the coronavirus and will let Congress know if additional funding is required. The CDC and our national public health infrastructure are working exactly as they are supposed to,” said Ranking Member Granger.

“However, I am deeply concerned that it was reported that up to 90% of the ingredients the United States uses for pharmaceuticals originate from China. This is unacceptable, and we must strengthen our domestic capacity to produce these ingredients.

“I will continue to work with the Administration and my colleagues in Congress to ensure that funds are made available to address the coronavirus and that China’s dominance in the drug supply chain is met with a robust American response.”

Vice Ranking Member Tom Cole added, “As we continue to monitor the coronavirus and identify additional needs for resources, I greatly appreciate the Administration’s efforts in keeping Congress informed on the unfolding situation. Thanks to the Infectious Disease Rapid Response Reserve Fund established by Congress in 2019, I am grateful that the CDC has not been slowed down in addressing the urgent needs thus far.

“After hearing from the Administration today, I am encouraged there are resources available for our public health defenders to do their work. Moreover, I was glad to hear of the rapid pace by which the NIH is working to develop a vaccine to protect lives. I continue to be an ardent supporter of programs to ensure the domestic supply of diagnostics, therapeutics and equipment is available.”

116th Congress