Senators call for FDA nanotech program

Bill introduced by Sens. Mark Pryor (D-Ark.) and Benjamin L. Cardin (D-Md.) would establish an FDA program "to assess the health and safety implications of nanotechnology in everyday products and develop best practices for companies that employ nanotechnology." In a Jan. 21 release, Pryor states: "As these products are developed and used, we must understand any potential risks to human health, safety or the environment." He maintains that FDA's involvement "will help ensure public safety and confidence in the marketplace" and support firms using nano-sized materials. Legislation would authorize $25 million annually from 2011 through 2015 to fund the program. FDA already has facilities in place to conduct studies required under the bill, including the National Center for Toxicological Research in Arkansas and its consolidated headquarters in Maryland, Pryor notes. In August 2009, the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies had netted more than 600 health and fitness products - including cosmetics and personal-care items - in its database of nanotechnology-containing consumer goods marketed worldwide (1"The Rose Sheet" Sept. 7, 2009)