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States can approve diagnostic tests during public health emergencies.

This act allows state authorities to approve and use diagnostic tests, like disease tests, without waiting for federal FDA approval, but only during a declared public health emergency. This means that in emergencies, such as pandemics, citizens can get faster access to needed tests as states can act independently. After the emergency ends, the FDA has 180 days to make a final decision on these tests.
Key points
States can independently approve diagnostic tests during public health emergencies, speeding up their availability.
The FDA cannot block the use of state-approved tests during an emergency, unless the state requests it.
After an emergency, the FDA has six months to decide on permanent approval for tests used by states.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_152
Sponsor: Sen. Cruz, Ted [R-TX]
Process start date: 2021-02-02
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Right to Test Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_152.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-02-02.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • States can independently approve diagnostic tests during public health emergencies, speeding up their availability.
  • The FDA cannot block the use of state-approved tests during an emergency, unless the state requests it.
  • After an emergency, the FDA has six months to decide on permanent approval for tests used by states.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Cruz, Ted [R-TX].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-29.

CATEGORIES

Health