This bill significantly expands the authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services to destroy imported articles. It amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to allow for the destruction of any article refused admission if the Secretary determines it presents a significant public health concern . This broadens the scope of destruction authority beyond just drugs and devices to include "other articles." Furthermore, the legislation establishes a new prohibited act, making it illegal to move or introduce into interstate commerce any article that the Secretary has decided to destroy under this expanded power. The amendments will take effect 180 days after enactment, with the Secretary mandated to finalize implementing regulations within 90 days and ensure consistency with international agreements.
This bill significantly expands the authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services to destroy imported articles. It amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to allow for the destruction of any article refused admission if the Secretary determines it presents a significant public health concern . This broadens the scope of destruction authority beyond just drugs and devices to include "other articles." Furthermore, the legislation establishes a new prohibited act, making it illegal to move or introduce into interstate commerce any article that the Secretary has decided to destroy under this expanded power. The amendments will take effect 180 days after enactment, with the Secretary mandated to finalize implementing regulations within 90 days and ensure consistency with international agreements.