Director of Pandemic and Biodefense Preparedness and Response Act

Director of Pandemic and Biodefense Preparedness and Response Act

This bill establishes the position of the Director of Pandemic and Biodefense Preparedness and Response in the executive branch and sets forth the qualifications for and responsibilities of the position. Among other tasks, the director shall

• advise the President, relevant councils, and others with respect to pandemics and other health threats;
• oversee the development of a National Pandemic and Biodefense Preparedness and Response Strategy and, in consultation with the Office of Management and Budget, submit biennial reports to Congress on the implementation of the strategy; and
• plan for and coordinate specified preparedness and response activities.

The director must also (1) identify existing federal agencies charged with elements of pandemic and biodefense preparedness and response, and (2) provide recommendations to Congress for reorganizing such agencies under the Office of the Director of Pandemic and Biodefense Preparedness and Response.

The director may not simultaneously serve as the head of any other agency in the federal government and must be a member of the National Security Council.