Senate passes bill to strengthen emergency preparedness

The Senate passed a bill by unanimous consent Wednesday that would strengthen national preparedness for public health emergencies.

Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Mich.) introduced the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Reauthorization Act, which would require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to submit the National Health Security Strategy to Congress by 2014. 

The HHS strategy would have to include provisions for increasing the preparedness and response capabilities of health facilities across the country, increase coordination between hospitals and trauma units and require drills to make sure medical facilities are prepared for health disasters, such as nuclear attacks, biological terrorism or pandemics. 

The House passed the measure on a 395-29 vote last month, but because the Senate amended the bill, the House has to agree to the changes before it can be sent to President Obama's desk.

This story was updated on Friday, March 1.

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