Sponsor Statement for HJR 31

This resolution requests Congress to amend the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act to facilitate the rapid review and approval of innovative new drugs, biological products and medical devices without compromising patient safety of product effectiveness. Congress made it clear that the Act should be liberally construed to protect public health.

Pharmaceutical companies have complained that there is too much government "red tape" acting as a barrier to market entry for new pharmaceutical products. This situation results in effective drugs being held from consumers for years before they are allowed on the market. This resolution urges Congress to look at the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act and make appropriate changes to the Act allowing drugs and medical devices to move onto the market more rapidly.

More rapid approval of drugs and medical devices without compromising patient safety could save lives and improve the quality of lives. I urge you to support this resolution.