Van Hollen Applauds Passage of the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act

Statement

Today Maryland Congressman Chris Van Hollen issued the following statement on House passage of the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act:

"Today, the House passed legislation that will provide the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) much-needed enhanced authorities to protect the American public from unsafe foods.

"Serious gaps have been exposed in the FDA's ability to protect the American public from outbreaks of food-borne diseases. These outbreaks have shaken consumer confidence in the food we eat. And while I prefer the stronger food safety bill that the House passed last year, the Senate-passed FDA Food Safety Modernization Act will make substantial improvements to our food safety system. It includes critical reforms that will improve the FDA's ability to prevent outbreaks and protect the safety of our food supply. It will allow the FDA to conduct increased inspections, enhance surveillance and traceability of food products, and give the FDA the authority to issue mandatory recalls.

"We must ensure that the FDA has the necessary tools and resources to fulfill its vital mission of helping protect the American public from unsafe products. This food safety bill is an important part of that effort."

Source