FDA, Others Warned on Finalizing Regs Before Trump in Office

FDA may be on cruise control until president-elect Donald Trump takes office in January. On 11/15, House Republican leaders wrote FDA commissioner Robert Califf and other federal agency heads to caution them against finalizing pending rules or regulations until after Trump is sworn in. “By refraining from acting with undue haste, you will ensure that agency staff may fully assess the costs and benefits of rules, making it less likely that unintended consequences will harm consumers and businesses,” a letter to the agencies says. “Moreover, such forbearance is necessary to afford the recently elected Administration and Congress the opportunity to review and give direction concerning pending rulemakings. Should you ignore this counsel, please be aware that we will work with our colleagues to ensure that Congress scrutinizes your actions — and, if appropriate, overturn them — pursuant to the Congressional Review Act.”