Today, Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-5) released the following statement, urging President Trump to use his authority under the Defense Production Act to address the dire shortage of medical supplies and equipment:
“We are at a tipping point in the midst of this global pandemic and we need the President to act. President Trump’s refusal to use the Defense Production Act to address the dire shortage of much-needed emergency medical equipment is putting lives in our district and across the country at risk. The law provides an avenue for the federal government, in times of crisis, to coordinate the manufacturing of essential, life-saving items. There are companies right here in our region who are eager to step up and produce these materials, but without any guidance from the White House, their hands are tied and lives hang in the balance. This is not a time for placing blame or shirking responsibility. The scope of this pandemic, and its potential impact upon Americans, is too immediate and life threatening to await a voluntary response from the corporate sector.
“I urge President Trump to use his authority under the law to coordinate the national effort we need to overcome this challenge, save lives, and protect the vulnerable who are at greatest risk. We don’t have a moment to wait."