SMASH 2.0 Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Neguse, Joe [D-CO-2]
- Committees
- Energy and Commerce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 2, 2026
Bottom line
The bill extends critical funding for vector-borne disease control programs and enhances national preparedness by promoting innovation and strategic stockpiling of essential supplies.
What it actually does
This bill reauthorizes the Strengthening Mosquito Abatement for Safety and Health (SMASH) program, providing $100 million annually for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 for mosquito-borne and other vector-borne disease surveillance and control. It also encourages the use of innovative technology in grant-making, allows up to 5% of funds for continuing education and training for public health entomologists, and directs the Secretary to develop a strategy for stockpiling vector-borne disease control products within the Strategic National Stockpile.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that reauthorizing the SMASH program is essential to continue efforts in combating mosquito-borne and other vector-borne diseases, protecting public health, and preventing outbreaks. They emphasize that the inclusion of innovative technology and strategic stockpiling will strengthen the nation's ability to respond effectively to these evolving threats.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that while disease control is important, the specified funding level of $100 million annually may not be sufficient to address the evolving challenges of vector-borne diseases, or that the allocation of funds could be more efficiently directed. Some might also raise concerns about the scope or cost-effectiveness of expanding the Strategic National Stockpile for these specific products.
The bill is very short and clearly written, making it easy for any interested reader to understand its provisions quickly.
Section 2(4)
Reauthorization of SMASH Program Funding
This provision extends the authorization for appropriations for the Strengthening Mosquito Abatement for Safety and Health (SMASH) program. It allocates $100,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2030, ensuring continued federal support for programs aimed at mosquito-borne and other vector-borne disease surveillance and control.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that consistent funding is crucial for maintaining and expanding effective vector control programs, which are vital for protecting communities from diseases like West Nile virus, Zika, and dengue.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against reauthorizing public health programs, though some might argue for different funding levels or alternative allocation strategies.
Tradeoffs
The primary tension is balancing the need for robust public health funding with overall budget constraints.
Section 2(2)(B)
Encouraging Innovative Vector Control Technologies
This amendment directs the Secretary to consider the use of innovative and novel technology for mosquito prevention and control when making grants under the SMASH program. This encourages grant applicants to propose and implement cutting-edge solutions in their disease control efforts.
Section 2(3)
Support for Public Health Entomologist Training
This provision amends the "Uses of Funds" section to explicitly allow recipients of SMASH awards to use up to 5 percent of their annual funding for continuing education and training. This includes specific support for public health entomologists, who are critical in understanding and controlling insect-borne diseases.
Section 2(6)
Strategic National Stockpile for Vector Control
This provision authorizes the Secretary, through the CDC and Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, to prepare the Strategic National Stockpile for an emergency supply of nonperishable vector-borne disease control products. It also mandates the inclusion of a strategy for this stockpiling in the national strategy on vector-borne diseases, including how to work with manufacturers for timely purchases.