MAJOR FOOD SAFETY BILL MOVES FORWARD
News Date June 16, 2009
The Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health last week marked up a major food safety bill (H.R. 2749, the 2009 Food Safety Enhancement Act). The legislation will give new authority and resources to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to oversee and monitor the nation's food supply. NASDA and its affiliate organization, the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) are working with committee staff to address state needs and concerns.
Seven amendments were offered during the session, but none were accepted. Rep. Matheson (D-UT) expressed support for including provisions on the use of antibiotics in livestock and the possible effects on disease resistance in humans. Two similar amendments were offered and subsequently withdrawn to address FDA's role in the oversight of livestock operations. Since growers are already monitored by USDA and at the state level, several lawmakers believed there would be an overlap of responsibilities. The subcommittee will continue to work on this language at the full committee level. No agreement was reached on the bill's proposed civil monetary penalties and will be addressed during full committee consideration. The full Energy and Commerce Committee is expected to mark-up the legislation on June 17. (Contact: Bob Ehart or Sean McCarver)