Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today released the following statement after President Obama signed into law a bipartisan bill that will modernize the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA Safety and Innovation Act includes several Bennet-backed provisions to improve drug safety, bring breakthrough treatments to patients more quickly, advance medical device innovations and prevent critical drug shortages.

“Families in Colorado and across the country can rest assured that the FDA has new tools available to ensure that the drugs in their medicine cabinet will help them get better, not cause harm.

“This new law makes much-needed changes to outdated regulations and allows the FDA to focus on the safety and quality of drugs and therapies that Coloradans have come to rely on.  The more efficient regulatory structure will spur innovation allowing bioscience companies and entrepreneurs in Colorado and across the globe to more quickly advance lifesaving breakthrough drugs and medical devices to patients faster while maintaining a commitment to safety. “

As a member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, Bennet worked closely with Chairman Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Ranking Member Mike Enzi (R-WY) to secure several provisions  that are included in the new law.  Bennet’s work on the bill was born out of numerous discussions with doctors, patients, families, and other stakeholders who detailed their stories about why FDA regulations need updating.