John Dingell

Many of us in the Great Lakes have sent a letter to the Appropriations Committee requesting $300 million for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative.

We do want to work with the majority. We want to see that we get the time, we want to see that we get the witnesses, and we want to see that we have a record that gives us the ability to look at things properly.

I have concerns that EPA is not doing enough to address the water quality in the Great Lakes.

Our fundamental goal in establishing a federal system should be to prevent Americans from being harmed by counterfeit and substandard medicines.

Now, do you agree that a federal traceability system with a phased-in approach should include clear requirements and a clear time frame for a second phase? Yes or no.

That is unacceptable to me as a California member, but it should be unacceptable to all members.

Unfortunately, the House discussion draft under consideration here today doesn't take that approach.

And we have to see to it that it is of course workable?

I thank you for these hearings. I commend you and also my dear friend, Mr. Pallone.

Do you agree that the goal of any federal traceability system should be unit-level tracking? Yes or no.

Do you agree that a traceability system would improve the efficiency and effectiveness of recalls or returns?

Do you agree that a traceability system would help to better secure our drug supply chain from counterfeits, theft and intentional adulteration? Yes or no.

I believe having a system at the federal level makes sense, if done correctly.

Do you agree that a federal traceability system should include participation from everyone in the supply chain?

This legislation, which I authored, included a dedicated source of funding for the implementation of food safety through a facility fee, a reinspection and recall fee and a fee for importers and exporters.

Another area of interest to me is cosmetics. FDA's authorities over this industry are woefully outdated.

I want to take a moment to thank you for the fine work you have been doing to implement the Affordable Care Act in the face of some rather nasty opposition by all kinds of folks including some members of this committee.

the way we deliver health care in America has to change.

Madam Secretary, do you believe these fees help FDA to implement the food safety law effectively and in a timely manner? Yes or no.

the Republicans in essence take that safety net away entirely.

Huge imports occupy a very high proportion of American consumption.

there is a very important contrast in the visions for this country for our older neighbors.

This business of fees for FDA began when this committee worked out a deal with the pharmaceutical industry.

this new innovative plan for brain research... is necessary and important.

Particularly in the area of new drug approvals. Is that right?