FDA Funding Debate Reframed By GAO Reports On Strategic Planning

Republican senators argue reports show that FDA needs significant reform; discussion of Cures and User Fee legislation will now likely focus on what the plan should be.

Skeptics of the 21st Century Cures Act have made several tactical retreats during the debates on the legislation, even as they have influenced the shape of the legislation as it advanced in the House and Senate. Now Republican senators seem to be hoping that two reports from General Accounting Office can provide enough ammunition to break through the last primary roadblock – the argument that FDA needs more funding as much as it needs structural reforms.

As the Cures package progressed in the House last year and the Senate this year, sponsors have had to drop...

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