The coronavirus pandemic needs a long-term policy response. The $2 trillion relief package is an example of short-term “flash policy” at its worst. There is a better approach. Governments across the world are removing regulations that are preventing a full coronavirus response. But it is also important to take a long-term view. Many positive examples of longer-term reform are available with the #NeverNeeded hashtag on Twitter. They cover restrictions on everything from healthcare and restaurants to education and communications technology.

Once some semblance of normalcy returns, Congress should appoint a standing independent commission to comb through the Code of Federal Regulations and identify rules that could get in the way of responding and adapting to the disruptions a future outbreak could cause. There is even pending legislation, the Regulatory Improvement Act, that would implement a version of such a commission.