Garbarino, Fellow Problem Solvers Announce Support for Standalone Vaccine Distribution Package
WASHINGTON – Today, Andrew Garbarino (NY-02) joined 55 of his fellow members of the House Problem Solvers Caucus in calling for an immediate vote on the $160 billion “Defeating COVID-19” vaccine distribution package, as the broader bipartisan talks and reconciliation process continues.
The “Defeating COVID-19” vaccine distribution package would allocate new federal investment funds for the national distribution and administration of the COVID-19 vaccine, as well as support for expanded testing programs, PPE purchases, and other key initiatives to beat this deadly virus. The package shares similarities with the vaccine portion of the “Direct COVID Pandemic Response” portion of President Biden’s American Rescue Plan and ongoing negotiations. Should negotiations around other portions of a new COVID-19 relief package take longer, whether that's through a bipartisan agreement or reconciliation, this separate $160 billion investment would immediately help boost vaccine deployment and testing nationwide.
More specific details on the “Defeating COVID-19” package can be found below.
“I’m proud to join my colleagues on the Problem Solvers Caucus in our continued efforts to break through the partisan gridlock of Congress and deliver real results for the American people. In order to fully re-open our economy and defeat this virus once and for all, Congress must pass increased funding for testing and vaccine distribution for our constituents. With the health and livelihoods of Long Islanders hanging in the balance, I am joining my colleagues in calling for an immediate vote on this bipartisan package,” said Rep. Andrew Garbarino.
The “Defeating COVID-19” Vaccine Distribution Package
Total - $160B
- National Vaccine Program in partnership with states, tribes, and territories: $20B
- Massive expansion of testing: $50B
- Disaster Relief Fund: $30B
- Defense Production Act Title III: $5B
- PPE for first responders, independent physicians offices, and dentists: $5B
- Rebuilding and restocking the National Strategic Stockpile: $15B
- Provider Relief Fund with 20% set aside for rural hospitals: $35B