Support Healthcare Workers with Hazardous Duty Pay and Protections

The United States is currently facing a public health crisis that has strained our healthcare system and put essential healthcare workers at risk. To safeguard these vital workers, it is imperative that Congress take action by passing H.R. 3645, which establishes emergency grants to provide hazardous duty compensation and safety measures for eligible healthcare workers during emergencies or disasters. This bill authorizes grants to healthcare facilities and home health agencies to provide up to $13 per hour in hazardous duty pay for essential workers whose jobs cannot be done remotely and whose work or commute is deemed hazardous by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. It also allows these funds to be used for safety measures like alternative transit options, personal protective equipment, and other safeguards. Ensuring the well-being and safety of our healthcare workforce is crucial to maintaining a resilient public health infrastructure. By compensating these workers for the risks they face and providing resources for their protection, we can better retain and support the dedicated professionals who serve on the frontlines during crises. This bill represents a vital step in prioritizing the health and welfare of those who care for us, and I urge its swift passage to strengthen our emergency preparedness and response capabilities.