H.R.1405 - Enhancing Domestic Drug Manufacturing Competitiveness Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1405, the "Enhancing Domestic Drug Manufacturing Competitiveness Act," directs the Comptroller General to study regulatory barriers hindering the expansion or siting of new pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities in the U.S. The study aims to identify these barriers and assess their impact on time and cost, relative to other countries. The bill also requires stakeholder engagement and a report to Congress with recommendations for streamlining regulations and fostering increased pharmaceutical manufacturing in the United States.
Expected Effects
The likely effect is a comprehensive report identifying regulatory obstacles to domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing. This could lead to legislative or regulatory changes aimed at boosting domestic production. The goal is to make the U.S. more competitive in pharmaceutical manufacturing and strengthen the pharmaceutical supply chain.
Potential Benefits
- Increased domestic pharmaceutical production: By identifying and addressing regulatory barriers, the bill could lead to more pharmaceutical manufacturing in the U.S.
- Enhanced supply chain resilience: The study will assess the impact of regulations on pharmaceutical supply chain resiliency, potentially leading to improvements.
- Economic growth and job creation: Increased manufacturing could create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
- Reduced reliance on foreign drug manufacturers: Boosting domestic production could reduce dependence on other countries for essential medicines.
- Streamlined regulatory processes: The report's recommendations could lead to more efficient and effective regulatory processes.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential weakening of environmental regulations: Streamlining regulations could lead to the weakening of environmental protections.
- Increased costs for taxpayers: The study itself will cost taxpayer money, and any subsequent regulatory changes could also have financial implications.
- Uncertainty of outcomes: The study may not identify significant barriers or lead to effective solutions.
- Risk of prioritizing industry interests over public health: Focus on competitiveness could lead to compromises on drug safety or efficacy.
- Potential for unintended consequences: Changes to regulations could have unforeseen negative impacts on the pharmaceutical industry or public health.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce. By addressing regulatory barriers to pharmaceutical manufacturing, the bill aims to promote economic activity and ensure access to essential medicines, potentially aligning with the "general Welfare" clause of the Preamble. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).