U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) is a co-founder and co-chair of the newly formed bipartisan Coronavirus Task Force.
“It is incredibly important that Congress and the American public stay up to date on all the facts relating to coronavirus,” Rep. Fitzpatrick said on Feb. 28. “We must provide the public with all available information to provide a full picture of how this has affected other countries, as well as our own.”
Joining Rep. Fitzpatrick to co-chair the congressional caucus are U.S. Reps. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX) and Raul Ruiz (D-CA).
The Coronavirus Task Force will bring together experience and expertise among members of Congress and congressional committees to produce an action plan and provide input into health policy and legislative efforts, according to information provided by Rep. Fitzpatrick’s office.
Additionally, the caucus will serve to regularly receive and disseminate information to Congress and the general public, as well as to advocate for resources and compel the Trump administration to act promptly on all matters related to combating the coronavirus, according to the information.
“As a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, I know that a global crisis can quickly reach our borders, and we must have every resource available to properly respond,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick.
Rep. Jackson Lee pointed out that the spread of the coronavirus requires that all Americans prepare rather than panic.
“We must be certain to utilize all information and federal resources available to ensure that efforts to stem the spread of this virus is successful,” she said. “This task force will monitor all federal efforts to contain, treat and develop drugs necessary to stop the virus.”
Rep. Ruiz, a medical doctor, said he’s “looking forward to bringing my experience as an emergency physician trained in humanitarian and disaster aid to the congressional Coronavirus Task Force.”
“We must prepare for the worst and work for the best,” he said. “Establishing the Coronavirus Task Force is important as our nation addresses the spread of this disease and works to keep Americans safe and healthy.”