Hoyer Statement on Lack of Critical Medical Equipment for Maryland
WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today after the House Oversight and Reform Committee released documents from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) showing that the agency has only provided a fraction of the medical supplies requested to Maryland:
"I am extremely concerned by the documents released today, which show that FEMA has only provided the state of Maryland with a fraction of the critical medical supplies our state has requested to fight the coronavirus. The severe shortage of vital medical supplies such as surgical masks, face shields, gloves, swabs to complete coronavirus tests, and respirators is completely unacceptable.
"The Administration's failure to take this pandemic seriously from the onset will cost American lives. Similar lack of medical equipment for the District of Columbia and Virginia is equally alarming. Forcing our medical personnel on the front lines of this crisis to perform their duties without the necessary safety equipment is a travesty. We must get them the critical supplies they need without delay. I will continue to monitor this situation and do whatever is necessary to procure medical supplies for our state."