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Today, two of Congressman Bob Latta’s (R-OH5) bipartisan health-focused bills were approved by the House Energy and Commerce (E&C) Committee after being approved by E&C’s Subcommittee on Health last week.

Latta’s Helping Evaluate Appropriate Logistical Infrastructure for National Government (HEALING) Response Act – co-led with Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL2) – was included in the broader Pandemic and All-Hazard Preparedness (PAHPA) Reauthorization Act. Latta’s bill will ensure the United States is prepared to mass produce medical countermeasures, such as medicines and medical supplies, in the case of a public health emergency or public health threats.

Latta’s Trauma-Informed Care Task Force Reauthorization Act – co-led with Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA25) – was included in the broader Substance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment (SUPPORT) for Patients and Communities Act. Latta’s bill will extend a task force to give rehabilitation professionals the tools needed to help curb the overdose crisis.

“As a senior member of the Energy and Commerce Committee and Subcommittee on Health, I’m committed to advancing commonsense solutions that improve health care services and outcomes for those I represent in Ohio’s Fifth District,” Latta said. “With the advancement of these bills today, we are one step closer to better preparing the U.S. for future public health emergencies and curbing the overdose epidemic claiming tens of thousands of lives each year. I look forward to the next legislative step for these bills: consideration before the full U.S. House of Representatives.”

“The Energy and Commerce Committee is continuing to lead on solutions that will help individuals struggling with substance use disorder and keep Americans safe from all types of public health hazards,” House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Chair Rodgers said. “I thank Rep. Latta for his leadership on key policies contained in the Support for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act and the Preparing for All Hazards and Pathogens Reauthorization Act.”