ICYMI: Rep. Cisneros Questions Dod on Support for Small Businesses and Domestic Industrial Base Amid Coronavirus

Press Release

Yesterday, Representative Gilbert R. Cisneros, Jr. (CA-39) questioned Department of Defense (DoD) Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment Ellen Lord about the DoD's efforts to support small businesses manufacturing PPE and a more resilient domestic industrial base. In the House Armed Services Committee hearing, Rep. Cisneros raised the concerns of small businesses in the 39th District, including the need for certainty so that small businesses can plan for the future and ensure their viability as they seek to respond to the nation's demand for critical medical supplies. To watch the hearing, click here.

"Small businesses in California's 39th District and across the country have stepped up to make critical PPE during this crisis. However, they're concerned there won't be a demand for it once this pandemic subsides," said Rep. Cisneros. "The DoD can provide the certainty and support our small businesses need through purchase guarantees and small business preferences. These actions would help replenish our depleted Strategic National Stockpile and strengthen our domestic industrial base. Our small businesses have always had our backs, it's time we have theirs."

On May 14th, Rep. Cisneros led a letter to DoD and Health and Human Services urging them to support small businesses producing PPE and replenish the Strategic National Stockpile.

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