Buchanan, Soto Introduce Bill to Strengthen U.S.-Israel Ties in Healthcare Field

Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL) has introduced the Maximizing Israel-U.S. Research Advancement and Collaborative Leadership in Emerging Medical Technology (MIRACLE) Act alongside Representatives Darren Soto (D-FL) and Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA).

The bill is designed to do eight things according to Rep. Buchanan's Office:

1. Promote research and development between the U.S. and Israel
2. Support innovation hubs to accelerate the development and commercialization of new and emerging health technologies
3. Protect intellectual property in the health care field for biological products shared between the countries
4. Facilitate best practices for health care system strengthening, including hospital cybersecurity efforts
5. Enhance telemedicine infrastructure between the two countries
6. Increase disease prevention initiatives
7. Promote exchange programs and training initiatives
8. Establish a U.S. Israel Health Care Collaboration Center

The Florida Republican shared his thoughts on the bill that has garnered support from the Jewish community, stating that Israel is on the rise as it relates to the healthcare field.

“Similar to the United States, Israel is a leading hub for new and innovative health-related technology,” said Rep. Buchanan. “I am pleased to introduce this important bipartisan legislation with Congresswoman Miller-Meeks and Congressman Soto to help foster and build stronger ties in health care between the United States and our greatest ally in the Middle East, Israel.”

Furthermore, Rep. Soto said he was “proud” to work on strengthening the ties between America and Israel in the field.

“I am proud to work with Congressman Buchanan on this effort to strengthen collaboration between the United States and Israel in the healthcare space,” said Rep. Soto. “As the U.S. secures itself as a leader in the global community, we must welcome opportunities to improve our development of medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and other solutions such as early-stage clinical trials. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to move this innovative proposal forward.”

Finally, Rep. Miller-Meeks described Israel as an innovative and “technological powerhouse.”

“Israel is not only an outpost of freedom in the Middle East, it is an innovation and technological powerhouse. Our bipartisan bill would enhance cooperation with our great ally and advance important research in health technology to benefit humanity,” said Rep. Miller-Meeks. “At a time when Israel is under attack, it is critical that potential medical breakthroughs are not stifled. I am proud to join Reps. Buchanan and Soto in this bipartisan effort and I will continue to stand with Israel.”

The bill has the support of AIPAC, the Combat Antisemitism Movement, the Conference of Presidents of Major Jewish Organizations, and the Jewish Federations.