The Biden administration has unveiled plans to allocate $600 million in funding for the production of new at-home COVID-19 tests. Additionally, they are reopening a website that allows

Americans to order up to four free tests per household. This initiative aims to prevent potential shortages during the upcoming colder months, when a surge in coronavirus cases is anticipated.

Starting on September 25, individuals can place their orders for free tests at COVIDTests.gov, with delivery provided by the United States Postal Service at no cost.

Twelve manufacturers operating in seven states have received funding and will produce 200 million over-the-counter tests. These tests will replenish federal stockpiles for government use while meeting the demand for online orders, reducing the risk of supply chain disruptions that have caused shortages of overseas-made at-home COVID tests during previous surges in cases.

Dawn O’Connell, Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response at HHS, stated that the website will remain operational throughout the holiday season, with the possibility of extending its availability if case numbers rise.

The tests are designed to detect current COVID variants and are intended for use by the end of the year. Instructions for verifying extended expiration dates will also be included.

This initiative follows four prior rounds where federal officials and the U.S. Postal Service distributed more than 755 million free tests to homes across the country. It is part of ongoing federal efforts to provide free COVID tests to various groups, including long-term care facilities, schools, low-income senior housing, uninsured individuals, and underserved communities.

Manufacturers will have the flexibility to produce the 200 million tests for federal use over 18 months. This allows them to cater to increasing demand for home tests when cases surge, and they can continue production during periods of lower demand.

HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra highlighted the administration's efforts to reduce reliance on overseas manufacturing and strengthen domestic production of at-home COVID-19 rapid tests. The goal is to mitigate the spread of the virus during the upcoming fall and winter seasons.