WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congressman Dean Phillips (MN-03) introduced the Material Threat Medical Countermeasure Priority Review Voucher (MCM PRV) Reauthorization Act, legislation that would reauthorize the Food and Drug Administration’s MCM PRV Program, created through the 21^st Century Cures Act.

The MCM PRV Program allows voucher recipients to expedite FDA review of a product that can be used as medical countermeasures in the event of a potential public health emergency stemming from a terrorist attack with a biological, chemical, radiological/nuclear material, or emerging disease. Applications with priority review designation receive FDA action within six months, rather than ten months under standard review.

“The Material Threat Medical Countermeasure Priority Review Voucher Program is a critical component of our national security,” said Rep. Finstad. “FDA review of products that can be used as medical countermeasures will allow for greater public health preparedness in both civilian and military populations. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I am proud to introduce this legislation, which ensures the MCM PRV Program can continue to fuel the research and development of medical advancements crucial to our national security.”

“In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s crucial that our government is prepared to respond to future public health threats quickly and efficiently,” said Rep. Phillips. “This bill provides a necessary incentive to expedite the development of new drugs, expand treatment options for rare diseases, and fight back against threats to our health and our security. I’m grateful to local partners like Humanetics for leading the field in drug development and ensuring that the United States is on the forefront of medical discovery.”