NOT IF, WHEN. A LITTLE-KNOWN AGENCY IS KEY TO PROTECTING AMERICANS FROM CBRN THREATS

The next chemical, biological, or natural disaster is coming. It’s a question of when, not if, and the U.S. must be prepared. HHS’ Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) leads this effort. They ensure the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) of medical countermeasures  has the tools needed to protect Americans from public health and medical threats. But support for ASPR and the SNS remains critical to safeguard the U.S. 

John Knox, Principal Assistant Deputy Secretary for ASPR, explained the critical work ASPR does to protect Americans in a recent Washington Examiner op-ed:

“From pandemics to bioterrorism, from chemical attacks to natural disasters, ASPR leads the entire federal government in preparedness because waiting is not an option...Thanks to the bold vision of the second Trump administration and the steadfast guidance of HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., ASPR has not merely responded to crises; it has built a shield of readiness that protects every American, every day.”

ASPR struggled under the Biden administration, as Knox explains. In 2024, Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc for Americans in states like Florida. 

President Trump has shown Americans what true preparedness looks like. In partnership with over 50 organizations, ASPR “test[ed] patient movement and unveil[ed] the cutting-edge Portable Biocontainment Unit” in June. ASPR also showed its responsiveness by “answer[ing] 13,000 technical assistance requests and support[ing] over 70 active incidents, proving that help is always just one call away.”

But we must ensure the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) is the best the U.S. has ever had. Continued support for ASPR and maintenance and expansion of the SNS is critical to ensure Americans are protected from the next threat.