Charles W. Stenholm: “H.R. 2508 is an example of how serious reform can and should occur. The Animal Drug Availability Act of 1995 enjoys…”

“H.R. 2508 is an example of how serious reform can and should occur. The Animal Drug Availability Act of 1995 enjoys broad support from camps that do not always see things from the same viewpoint, however, both the FDA and the regulated community agree on the reform embodied in H.R. 2508. Additionally, the users of animal drugs, the veterinarians, and the various animal agriculture groups representing farmers and ranchers that raise beef, pork, and poultry all support this bill. The Animal Drug Availability Act represents what can be accomplished when all involved, regulators, those regulated, and the end users sit down and sincerely listen to each other. Unfortunately, the larger issue of FDA reform has been slowed for a variety of reasons. Hopefully, this bill should serve as an example of how future Congresses can approach larger FDA reform and of the progress that can result from bipartisan discussion open to all stakeholders. H.R. 2508, the Animal Drug Availability Act of 1995, represents common sense reform that reduces regulatory hurdles for efficacy testing and preserves safety testing. Let me say that again. The Animal Drug Availability Act does not reduce evaluation of products on the basis of human safety, nor does it reduce the FDA's ability to require target animal safety information. Essential safety standards for humans and animals would not be weakened in any way.”