Frank Pallone

Ranking Member Pallone and I will be releasing a call for ideas following the hearing.

As ranking member of this subcommittee and a member of the Communications and Internet Subcommittee, telehealth has been an interest of mine for some time.

So, Mr. Chairman, obviously reforming TSCA is crucial to protecting Americans from unsafe chemicals, and I am disappointed in the current draft before us today.

But, unfortunately, the version before us today does not reflect sufficient input from Democratic members, including myself.

The Center for Tobacco Products has a lofty task moving forward.

Evidence from GAO, CDC, this committee and others has demonstrated that the use of e-cigarettes, little cigars and other unregulated products has increased dramatically, and this is due on part to inaction on the deeming rule.

I just think it is crucial that FDA acts quickly to deem additional tobacco products.

Well, in fact, members of this committee have repeatedly written to FDA raising the alarm about the various risks that e-cigarettes pose to children and adolescents.

Did you see this CDC report, and if so, what were your impressions?

Over the past few years, we have seen dramatic increases in the use of e-cigarettes and flavored little cigars among youth.

There is a long list of things we need to do. First, FDA must continue implementation of the Tobacco Control Act.

Today we are finally holding a hearing on that law that was passed in 2009, which I authored, but we are focusing on a very narrow issue.

We have known for 50 years about the terrible health effects of smoking.

This year marks 5 years since the Tobacco Control Act became law, which, for the first time, provided FDA the authority to regulate tobacco products.

We also expect industry to step up and do more to minimize the risk of diversion.

I believe these stakeholders--physicians, pharmacies, and distributors who want to do the right thing--stand ready to work with law enforcement in combating prescription drug abuse.

One of the bills under consideration today is one that I am proud to sponsor with Chairman Pitts.

There is no question that DEA has an important role in combatting drug abuse.

This committee has an important balancing act it must play.

OPENING STATEMENT OF HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR.

The laws are very clear when it comes to the illegal drug trade.

I've said many times since I took the lead on this issue over 2 years ago that on this one, the tragic prescription drug abuse epidemic in America, we are all in this together.

Our legislation clarifies two definitions within the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) which is essential to providing a clear path forward for enforcement agencies.

These laws were clearly major steps forward but effective implementation and enforcement are essential.

Equity in coverage is not something that is easily determinable.