Sherman to Introduce Emergency Infant Formula Act -- Focuses on Increasing Supply

Statement

Today Congressman Brad Sherman (D-Sherman Oaks) announced he will introduce the Emergency Infant Formula Act -- legislation that focuses on increasing the supply of infant formula amid the national shortage crisis.

This bill would give the President the authority, during periods of shortage, to specify that certain baby formulas may be imported and sold in the U.S. This applies only to formula legally sold in the E.U., Canada, the U.K., and Japan. The President would have the authority to limit the authorization to particular brands, manufacturers, or particular manufacturing facilities. The President could modify or suspend labeling requirements.

The bill also authorizes the President to suspend tariffs on baby formula, and baby formula ingredients, and instructs customs to give such products priority processing.

Finally, the bill clarifies that the Defense Production Act applies to infant formula.

Chairman Bobby Scott (D-VA) is also working on legislation. His legislation will deal with the additional problems faced by businesses of WIC and other government programs. Current law allows such beneficiaries to purchase only some of the brands currently sold in the U.S.

See the Bill Text here.

Click here for an article from the Atlantic that explains why this bill is necessary. Even if this bill is adopted, we may not be able to import sufficient supplies, but Congressman Sherman believes this would be a major step in the right direction.

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