Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, many Americans, including my constituents, fight a terminal illness. Many of them cannot access potentially lifesaving drugs because of the lengthy and bureaucratic Food and Drug Administration's approval process. Last month Congressman Fitzpatrick and I introduced the Right to Try Act, which is a bill that would provide the option for terminally ill patients to receive drugs that have passed the FDA's basic safety testing but are still working their way through the lengthy government process to receive final approval. In 2014, my home State of Arizona passed a similar right-to-try law with nearly 80 percent of the vote, thanks to the heroic efforts of my friend, the late Laura Knaperek. She successfully fought to pass right- to-try at the State level even as she was battling a cancer that would ultimately claim her life. I sponsored this bill in memory of Laura and many others who have championed this legislation around the country. Right-to-try has passed in 33 States, and it needs to be enacted at the Federal level. Our bill gives Americans that right to try. I am grateful for Congressman Fitzpatrick's partnership on this vital issue. I call upon my colleagues to pass this legislation in the House. ____________________”