Washington— U.S. Rep. John Katko (R, NY-24) today introduced the COVID-19 Vaccine Developers Gold Medal Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation that would award the Congressional Gold Medal to the developers of the COVID-19 vaccines, including researchers at SUNY Upstate Medical University. Rep. Katko introduced the bill alongside U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush (D, IL- 01). Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Roy Blunt (R-MO).
The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions by individuals or institutions. Rep. Katko’s bill would award this medal to the individuals who contributed to the development of the COVID-19 vaccines, including researchers at SUNY Upstate, including Dr. Stephen Thomas, who led clinical trials for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.
“Today I introduced legislation that would award the Congressional Gold Medal to those who contributed to the development of COVID-19 vaccines, including the COVID-19 researchers at SUNY Upstate Medical University who led critical clinical trials for the Pfizer vaccine. Because of this work, our nation was able to develop safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines in record time,” said Rep. Katko. “The pandemic has proven to be one of the greatest challenges our nation has ever faced. The individuals who helped develop COVID-19 vaccines that are now saving lives and putting our nation on the road to recovery are well deserving of this high honor.”
