Dear Mr. Zydney:

Thank you for writing me concerning the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). On May 9, the Senate passed S. 1082, the Food and Drug Administration Revitalization Act. I am confident that this legislation will improve the FDA's ability to protect consumers and ensure the health and safety of individuals nationwide.

I supported this bill because it will expedite the review and approval of new prescription drugs, bringing them to market without unnecessary delay. Additionally, the bill improves the safety and efficacy of pharmaceuticals and medical devices for children and addresses weaknesses in our current system for ensuring the safety of both the human and pet food supplies.

I cosponsored an amendment to S. 1082 that would allow the importation of FDA-approved drugs from Canada and countries in Europe. Citizens in these countries regularly pay half the price Americans do for the same drugs. Although this amendment passed, a subsequent amendment essentially nullified the provision by requiring certification from the Secretary of Health and Human Services, which will almost certainly not happen. However, I will continue my work to make prescription drugs affordable and widely available for all Americans.

I appreciate hearing your informed policy suggestions. Please do not hesitate to contact me again on this or any other matter.

P.S. From time to time, I compile electronic news briefs highlighting key issues and hot topics of particular importance to Floridians. If you'd like to receive these e-briefs, visit my Web site and sign up for them at http://billnelson.senate.gov/news/ebriefs.cfm