In Opposition of Implications to Medical Research in H.R. 1254

Floor Speech

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring attention to a possible unintentional consequence of H.R. 1254, the Synthetic Drug Control Act of 2011. This legislation would add two categories of synthetic drugs to the list of Schedule I controlled substances.

While I am troubled by news reports involving these drugs and I support restrictions on the sale of these chemicals for purposes of illicit use, I am concerned about the impact the ban would impose on legitimate scientific research, including much needed medical advances.

To maintain our position in the world as the leader in the research and development of pharmaceuticals, we must ensure that researchers have access to the compounds necessary to discover and create new drugs. We cannot afford to stifle these advancements. At a time when other countries continue to make gains in medical research, we must make certain our researchers have all available means necessary to further their studies and uphold our competitive edge.

If enacted into law, should this measure hinder any progress in the arena of medical research, I would urge Congress to re-examine this issue in a way that protects public health while continuing to make much needed medical advancements possible. In the meantime, I would also urge my colleagues in the Senate to thoroughly examine this issue during any consideration of H.R. 1254 or a similar legislative proposal.

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