The Defense Production Act (DPA) is a United States federal law enacted in 1950. It allows the government to prioritize and allocate resources for national defense and emergency preparedness. This includes the ability to direct private industry to produce essential goods and services during crises, such as wars or natural disasters. Under the DPA, the government can also provide financial assistance to companies to expand production capabilities. This law has been used in various situations, including the COVID-19 pandemic, to ensure the availability of critical supplies like personal protective equipment and vaccines, thereby supporting public health and safety.