Dear Governor:
As I shared in my February 9 letter to you, the U.S. Division of Well being and Human Solutions (HHS) is preparing for the federal Public Well being Emergency (PHE) declared beneath the Public Well being Service Act for COVID-19 to finish on May perhaps 11. When COVID-19 is not more than, we are in a position to finish the emergency phase of our response simply because of the Administration’s entire-of-government strategy to combatting the virus. Along with the February 9 letter, I shared a Truth Sheet explaining some of what will and will not modify as a outcome of the finish of the PHE. As we enter the final month of the COVID-19 PHE and continue the procedure of transitioning the emergency policies enabled by the COVID-19 emergency declarations, I would like to deliver clarity with regards to the future of coverage of COVID-19 countermeasures beneath the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (PREP Act).
The protections supplied by the PREP Act have helped millions of Americans get handy and timely COVID-19 vaccines, remedies, and tests. Recognizing this, I am announcing now that I intend to amend the PREP Act declaration to extend specific critical protections that will continue to facilitate such access. Attached is a Truth Sheet outlining important specifics. This Truth Sheet is not exhaustive, and the amended declaration might address more concerns not covered right here. HHS will share more guidance on any additional extensions of PREP Act coverage when the amended Declaration is published.
Addressing COVID-19 remains a important public wellness priority for the Administration. In the month remaining prior to the finish of the PHE, HHS will continue to operate closely with its partners, such as Governors, state, nearby, Tribal, and territorial agencies, business, and advocates to make sure an orderly transition. Thank you for your sustained partnership as we operate to safeguard and advance the wellness and effectively-becoming of the American individuals.
Sincerely,
Xavier Becerra
Secretary, U.S. Division of Well being and Human Solutions