WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) today released a discussion draft of legislation aimed at incentivizing the domestic manufacturing of critical battlefield medicines and medical devices. The bill comes amid growing concerns about the reliance of the U.S. on foreign sources, particularly China, for essential medical supplies.
“Millions of Americans rely on medications manufactured overseas, many in China,” Wenstrup, a former combat surgeon, said in a statement. “This creates a national security risk, especially for our military personnel who depend on these supplies during operations.”
The draft bill seeks to address this issue by offering several incentives for domestic production:
- Reduced tax rates: Lowering the tax rate on income generated from manufacturing and selling essential drugs, biologics, medical devices,countermeasures, and active pharmaceutical ingredients within the U.S.
- Investment tax credit: Providing tax breaks for investments in advanced manufacturing equipment and machinery used for domestic production of critical health products.
- Environmental compliance credit:Offering tax credits for equipment needed to comply with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations, aiming to help domestic manufacturers remain competitive while adhering to environmental standards.
These credits are specifically earmarked for the production of essential medicines and devices as defined by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Defense (DOD).
Wenstrup’s proposal joins a growing national conversation about reducing reliance on foreign sources for critical supplies, spurred by concerns about potential disruptions and vulnerabilities. The bill has yet to be formally introduced to Congress, but its release suggests a potential bipartisan avenue for addressing this crucial issue.