Seeking supplemental FDA funds

Executive Summary

Even before Congress completes the fiscal 2008 appropriations process in September, the FDA Alliance is trying to draw congressional attention to FDA as a potential recipient of more money when a supplemental war funding bill is considered this fall. This funding mechanism could be justified based on the need for additional dollars to pay for capital projects or for new responsibilities stemming from FDA reform legislation, Alliance President Steven Grossman suggests. Whether or not the effort ultimately is successful, it will provide "a continuing reminder that FDA matters every day and that a short budget is not the way to solve the [agency's] problems." The alliance, whose members include industry, consumer and patient advocacy groups, is devoted to gaining more resources for FDA (1"The Pink Sheet" July 16, 2007, p. 16)...