Statement of the Hon. Rosa L. DeLauro Senate Committee Vote on Lester Crawford

Statement of the Hon. Rosa L. DeLauro Senate Committee Vote on Lester Crawford

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (Conn.-3) voiced concerns as the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee today recommended the nomination of Lester Crawford to head the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Crawford's nomination now goes to the Senate floor for consideration. DeLauro is ranking member of the House Appropriations Agriculture Subcommittee, which has jurisdiction over FDA's budget in the House.

DeLauro recently raised concerns that Dr. Crawford did not testify before the Appropriations Agriculture Subcommittee. The Fiscal Year 2006 Agriculture Appropriations bill recently passed by the House included an amendment offered by DeLauro to withhold 5 percent of funds from the FDA central offices until the head of the agency testifies regarding their budget request.

"Serious scientific and management challenges face the Food and Drug Administration. These challenges have plagued the agency during the time that Dr. Crawford served as acting commissioner.

"This year, despite requests, no hearings were held on the FDA while we were trying to make critical budget decisions. To assure that FDA and the Administration understood what a critical omission this was, the subcommittee unanimously fenced off 5% of the budget of the leadership offices of FDA - not the budget of the Centers investigating food, drugs, medical devices or biological products.

"My office has recently received a great deal of information from the FDA. As we review it, we have serious concerns about Dr. Crawford's actions as acting head of FDA. These concerns must be addressed before he is given this important position permanently."

Source