On the recordDecember 8, 2010
The House passed the food safety bill a year ago July. Not this July, but the July in 2009. And we waited for the Senate to act, and they recently acted by 73-25 in favor of the legislation. When we had it before us it was 283 supporters. Now, the Senate made some changes in the bill. But all advocacy groups, all the public interest groups, have told us that FDA needs this legislation to be able to protect the American people from unsafe food, whether it's domestic or foreign imported foods. This legislation gives them important tools. They have clear authority to issue and require manufacturers to meet strong, enforceable standards to ensure the safety of various types of foods. This bill does not create unnecessary burdens for farmers and small businesses. It would allow FDA to exercise their new authorities and require manufacturers to implement actions like preventive systems to stop outbreaks before they occur. I would have preferred the House bill rather than the amendment in the Senate bill. But sometimes you have to accept a change that you may not favor at first blush. But to have us defeat this bill and have the American people go without the tools in FDA's hands to stop unsafe foods would be irresponsible. I urge support for the legislation.
