The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) today lauded Congress for approving legislation to reauthorize an animal drug review law and to add a new generic animal drug review statute, providing pork producers with access to products that safeguard animal and public health.
The Animal Health Institute (AHI) also commended legislators’ quick efforts in passing H.R. 6432, the Animal Drug User Fee Amendments (ADUFA) that provide industry resources to support the science-based animal drug review process at the Food and Drug Administration.
The Senate today approved both H.R. 6432 and the Animal Generic Drug User Fee Act (AGDUFA) unanimously. The House of Representatives approved the measures by voice vote on July 30.
“We want to commend the leadership on both sides of the aisle in the Senate and House for approving this important legislation,” remarks NPPC President Bryan Black, Canal Winchester, OH, pork producer. “Congress’ action will help ensure that pork producers have access to products that keep our pigs healthy and our products safe and wholesome.”
H.R. 6432 reauthorizes the program first enacted in 2003, according to the AHI. It builds upon the existing performance goals for FDA review of new animal drug applications and provides $98 million of industry user fees over five years for program support.
Since ADUFA was signed into law, four new swine health products have been approved, helping producers fight the growing challenges from swine respiratory diseases. And last year alone, nine new products were approved to help pets live longer, healthier lives.
“Pork producers have always supported science-based efforts to protect public health,” says Black. “Today’s bill included enhanced animal health company reporting requirements to further promote public health. These additional requirements do not limit producer access to important animal health products.”