If passed, the Paws Off Act would introduce new labeling requirements for food manufacturers, necessitating them to provide clear warnings about xylitol content. This change in legislation would not only enhance consumer awareness but also potentially lead to a reduction in veterinary emergencies related to xylitol poisoning. The bill reflects a broader trend in food regulations favoring transparency and consumer protection, particularly concerning products that are at risk of being ingested by pets.
Summary
House Bill 617, known as the Paws Off Act of 2023, seeks to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act regarding foods that contain xylitol. The bill proposes that any food containing xylitol must clearly label the product with a warning about the toxic effects of xylitol on dogs if ingested. This regulation aims to mitigate the risks associated with accidental ingestion by pets, specifically addressing the growing concern for pet safety in relation to consumer foods that may be harmful to them.
Contention
While the bill is primarily aimed at protecting pet health, it may raise concerns among some food manufacturers regarding compliance costs and the implications of additional labeling requirements. There could be discussions surrounding what constitutes appropriate labeling and how this bill might affect small businesses versus larger corporations. Furthermore, the bill’s sponsor may need to address any opposition related to the existing regulations and the effectiveness of current protocols in preventing xylitol poisoning cases.
Paws Off Act of 2025 This bill forbids the sale of food that contains xylitol unless the food's label contains a warning about the toxic effects of xylitol for dogs if ingested.
Support And Value Expectant Moms and Babies Act of 2023 or the SAVE Moms and Babies Act of 2023 This bill prohibits the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from approving any new drug (either as a brand-name drug or a generic) intended to terminate a pregnancy and imposes additional restrictions on such drugs that are already approved. Under the bill, an already-approved drug intended to terminate a pregnancy may be dispensed to a patient only with a prescription. Furthermore, the FDA may not approve any labeling change that would authorize (1) using the drug after 70 days of gestation, or (2) dispensing the drug by any means other than in-person administration by the prescribing health care practitioner. The FDA must also impose additional restrictions on such already-approved drugs, including by (1) requiring the prescribing health care practitioner to receive a special certification, (2) prohibiting the practitioner from also acting as the dispensing pharmacist, and (3) requiring the practitioner to have the ability to provide surgical intervention to the patient. The bill also rescinds any investigational use exemption already granted to such a drug if the bill would have prohibited the FDA from granting the exemption. (Currently, the FDA may grant an exemption to certain market approval requirements if a drug is intended solely for use in safety and effectiveness investigations.)