House proposes $3.2 billion for FDA in FY 2021
On Monday, the US House Committee on Appropriations’ Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies held a markup session for fiscal year 2021 appropriations.Of the total budget of $23.98 billion – a 2.3% increase from the prior fiscal year -- the bill allocates $3.212 billion for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This amount is an increase of $40.8 million over the prior fiscal year’s approximate $3.2 billion budget. FDA funding will total $5.99 billion when user fee revenue is included.
The FDA budget hike contained in the 2021 budget represents a smaller increase than the $91 million, or 3%, boost in appropriations the agency received in fiscal year 2020 compared with the prior fiscal year.
Influenza vaccine manufacturing technology advancement received a targeted boost; money was also allocated to develop a regulatory framework for cannabidiol products.
Medical product and food safety activities received targeted increases in funding. Specifically, $70 million is appropriated in the bill for further medical product development acceleration according to the provisions of the 21st Century Cures Act.
Other specific areas with increased funding include measures to speed the agency’s response to foodborne illness outbreaks, and to take measures to increase safety and cybersecurity of medical devices.
Nita Lowey (D – N.Y.), Chairwoman of the House Committee on Appropriations, said during the markup session that the 2021 budget will provide a “much-needed $31 million boost to continue to review therapies – and one day, vaccines – for COVID-19, sooner rather than later.”
Ranking member Jeff Fortenberry (R – Neb.) commented on the importance of a renewed focus on ensuring the safety of imported drugs. He pointed out that 80% of active pharmaceutical ingredient manufacturers are housed outside of the United States, and that safety of the nation’s drug supply is of paramount importance. “FDA is a part of the solution – an important one,” said Fortenberry.