BIO Welcomes Dr. Crawford’s Confirmation as FDA Commissioner

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 18, 2005) — The Hon. James C. Greenwood, president and CEO of the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), released the following statement regarding Senate confirmation of Dr. Lester Crawford as Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

“Dr. Crawford ably led the agency through a difficult period over the last year, and we welcome his confirmation as Commissioner.  Dr. Crawford recognizes that the FDA’s role as regulatory gatekeeper is pivotal to both fostering innovation and ensuring product safety.

“The FDA must be prepared for the innovations emerging from genomics, proteomics, nanotechnology and other biotechnology applications.  We’re entering an era of personalized medicine and a revolution with the potential to further tame disabling and deadly diseases.  A well-funded, effectively managed FDA is essential to bringing those breakthroughs to patients.

  “FDA is also a key reviewer of biotechnology applications for food and feed to safeguard all foods in the marketplace under the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act.  The agency’s oversight of these products helps to boost consumer confidence at home and abroad.

 “BIO’s staff and our member companies look forward to working with Dr. Crawford and his leadership team.”

BIO represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and 31 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products.

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