Mississippi Gulf News

Congressmen Mike Ezell (MS-04) and John Garamendi (CA-08) have introduced a bipartisan bill called the Facilitate Access to Swiftly Transport Goods during a Publicly Announced State of Emergency Situation (FAST PASS) Act. The bill aims to expedite the movement of critical cargo during an emergency while ensuring minimal impact on non-critical cargo.

In a statement, Congressman Ezell highlighted the importance of having a responsive supply chain during times of emergencies. He mentioned past events like Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic, stating that "our supply chains must be ready to respond." He expressed gratitude for Congressman Garamendi's collaboration on the FAST PASS Act, emphasizing that the bill will help ensure critical supplies are transported quickly and efficiently across the country.

Congressman Garamendi emphasized the urgency of the matter, referring to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the transportation of medical supplies. He stated, "congestion and supply chain crunches at American ports for medical supplies and other critical cargo can be a matter of life and death." He expressed satisfaction in co-authoring the bill with Congressman Ezell, highlighting the importance of expedited delivery when American jobs and lives are at stake.

The proposed FAST PASS Act would require the Department of Transportation (DOT) to conduct a study on strategies for swiftly transporting critical cargo in declared emergencies. The focus would be on mitigating delays and ensuring the prioritization of essential medical supply shipments. Matthew J. Rowan, President and CEO of the Health Industry Distributors Association (HIDA), commended the bill, stating that it would play a crucial role in expediting medical supplies during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.

The need for improved emergency supply chains has become evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, with tens of thousands of containers of critical medical supplies facing significant delays throughout the transportation system. These delays have also been observed in the aftermath of natural disasters across the country.

Congressmen Ezell and Garamendi serve together on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, highlighting their expertise and dedication to addressing transportation issues that impact healthcare.

In conclusion, the introduction of the FAST PASS Act by Congressmen Ezell and Garamendi aims to expedite the transportation of critical cargo during emergencies, ensuring the timely delivery of vital supplies. The bill has garnered support from various stakeholders, including the Health Industry Distributors Association, who recognize the importance of prioritizing essential medical supplies. With their bipartisan collaboration and expertise in transportation matters, Congressmen Ezell and Garamendi are taking a proactive step towards improving emergency supply chains in the United States.