For Immediate Release
Statement from Scott Becker, CEO, Association of Public Health Laboratories
November 19, 2021, Silver Spring, MD — “The Association of Public Health Laboratories applauds the House of Representatives for passing the Build Back Better legislation today with several key provisions for public health.
“We are extremely pleased that the bill includes $1.4 billion for the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to improve laboratory activities, and lists construction for state and local public health laboratories as the first priority. This funding will also improve CDC laboratories and allow public health laboratories to enhance biosafety and biosecurity efforts.
“These funds are an important first step in improving the nation’s public health laboratory capacity and capability, and are a significant complement to the federal funding provided by the American Rescue Plan.
“APHL also welcomes the $150 million for improvements in Food and Drug Administration laboratories, and looks forward to the improved capabilities for this key federal partner.
“We thank the House and administration for their leadership on this legislation, and we urge the Senate to pass the bill quickly so it will become law.”
Contact Michelle Forman at 240.485.2793 or michelle.forman@aphl.org
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The Association of Public Health Laboratories (APHL) works to strengthen laboratory systems serving the public’s health in the U.S. and globally. APHL’s member laboratories protect the public’s health by monitoring and detecting infectious and foodborne diseases, environmental contaminants, terrorist agents, genetic disorders in newborns and other diverse health threats. Learn more at www.aphl.org.
