To Amend The Definition Of "drug" Within The Food, Drug, And Cosmetic Act; And To Declare An Emergency.
Impact
The introduction of SB255 indicates a shift in regulatory measures towards greater transparency in food production and public health safety. If enacted, this bill will require manufacturers to label food that contains vaccine materials, directly impacting the food industry and how products are presented to consumers. The bill highlights the need for informed consumer choices, particularly in light of innovative practices in biotechnology and food production. As such, it aims to protect public health by ensuring consumers are aware of the contents of their food, potentially affecting buyer confidence and market dynamics.
Summary
Senate Bill 255 seeks to amend the definition of 'drug' within the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to include articles intended for use as vaccines or vaccine materials. Specifically, the bill adds a definition for 'vaccine or vaccine material' as substances that stimulate antibody production and provide immunity against diseases. The legislation responds to increasing technological advancements in creating vaccines from edible plants, emphasizing the importance of consumer awareness regarding potential vaccine content in food products. This amendment could significantly influence how food products are labeled and marketed if they contain vaccine components.
Contention
A notable point of contention surrounding SB255 involves the balance between regulatory oversight and consumer rights. Proponents advocate for stringent labeling requirements as a necessary protection for consumers, especially amid growing concerns about biotechnology and its implications for health and safety. However, opponents may argue that such regulations could unduly burden food producers and complicate the labeling process. There may also be broader implications for the relationship between technological innovation in the food sector and regulatory frameworks, raising questions about the speed at which laws can adapt to scientific advancements.
To Exempt The Sale Of Veterinary Drugs And Medicine If Based On A Prescription Of A Licensed Veterinarian From The Licensure Requirements For A Pharmacist And A Pharmacy; And To Declare An Emergency.
To Restrict Wholesale Distributors Of Controlled Substances And Legend Drugs From Limiting Or Terminating Sales Of Controlled Substances To Certain Licensed Professionals; And To Declare An Emergency.
To Prohibit Industrial Hemp That Contain Certain Delta Tetrahydrocannabinol Substances; To Include Certain Tetrahydrocannabinol In The List Of Schedule Vi Controlled Substances; And To Declare An Emergency.
To Amend The Definition Of "qualified Steel Specialty Products Manufacturing Facility" For The Purpose Of The Income Tax Credit For Waste Reduction, Reuse, Or Recycling Equipment; And To Declare An Emergency.
To Amend The Arkansas Constitution Concerning Economic Development Projects; To Amend The Definition Of "economic Development Projects" Under Arkansas Constitution, Article 12, ยง 5; And To Declare An Emergency.
Creating The Fentanyl Enforcement And Accountability Act Of 2023; Concerning Fentanyl And Other Controlled Substances; To Establish Increased Penalties; And To Declare An Emergency.
Creating The Fentanyl Enforcement And Accountability Act Of 2023; Concerning Fentanyl And Other Controlled Substances; To Establish Increased Penalties; And To Declare An Emergency.