On Wednesday, the Biden administration announced it will provide $600 million for the production of new at-home COVID-19 tests and will restart a website allowing Americans to order up to four free tests per household, according to the Wisconsin State Journal. The move aims to prevent potential shortages during the cold months’ typical rise in coronavirus cases.
The Department of Health and Human Services says orders can be placed here beginning Sept. 25. The tests will be delivered for free by the United States Postal Service. They are designed to detect COVID variants currently circulating and are intended for use by the end of the year; they will also, however, come with instructions on verifying extended expiration dates.
Funding has been awarded to 12 manufacturers over seven states to produce 200 million over-the-counter tests, replenishing federal stockpiles for government use and producing enough to meet demand for tests ordered online.
The website will remain functional to receive orders at least through the holidays.
