Bill > HR10797

This bill, titled the Aerial Transport and High Consequence Infectious Diseases Act, directs the Secretary of the Air Force—working alongside other defense and health officials—to establish a specialized Department of Defense program by October 1, 2027, for the safe, long-range aerial transport of individuals who are known or suspected to be infected with high-consequence infectious diseases, which are dangerous pathogens that pose severe public health and operational risks. The program will act as the military's primary capability for moving such patients while also providing support to other federal agencies, state and local governments, and civilian partners when appropriate. To ensure readiness, the legislation requires the Air Force to train and certify medical personnel, establish strict safety and infection control protocols, manage specialized equipment like transport isolation systems (specialized containment units designed to prevent the spread of contagions during flight), and develop overarching military doctrine. Additionally, the bill mandates that the program coordinate specialized response teams, address capability gaps through research and development, and ensure seamless integration across military and civilian sectors to effectively handle future infectious disease threats.