WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a bid to prevent future infant formula shortages and ensure the safety of babies around the nation, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) and U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) introduced a new bill. The Infant Formula Made in America Act aspires to fortify our domestic infant formula industry by supporting new or burgeoning small manufacturers.
What is the real-world impact of such a bill? The Act could mean significant relief for families who have had to grapple with an infant formula shortage that swept the nation more than two years ago. Parents, desperate to feed their children, found themselves in a dreadful reality when a massive recall of infant formula impacted formula supply and left them in fear of using potentially contaminated products.
“Too many parents and caregivers were left tired and scared, and we need to make sure this never happens again—there is no greater fear than not being able to feed your child,” Senator Casey remarked powerfully on the issue.
This recent legislation follows on the heels of a concentrated effort by Senator Casey to rectify and prevent infant formula shortages. Throughout 2022, Casey took the lead in addressing a harrowing series of events, which included dangerous bacterial contamination of powder infant formula products resulting in multiple hospitalizations and a reported death, purported price gouging by major retail chains, and a distressing whistleblower report from inside a major formula producer.
The new bill, if enacted, would create a tax credit program designed to bolster new and expanding small U.S. infant formula producers, those who earn less than $750 million in revenue. This move has two potential benefits. Firstly, it would help these smaller manufacturers compete in an industry dominated by giants, consequently improving market diversity. Secondly, it would ensure a secure, diversified domestic industry capable of meeting the needs of American families.
The Infant Formula Made in America Act aims to address two key issues that contributed to the 2022 infant formula shortage: food safety and supply. Congresswoman DeLauro expressed that “No parent should face this,” referring to the shortages and fears of the past.
Alongside baby’s safety, the Infant Formula Made in America Act could also have an indirect economic impact. Encouraging the growth of small formula producers could lead to job creation in the industry and a boost to the American economy.
Endorsements for the legislation have come from diverse groups including the National Milk Producers Federation and the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, and co-sponsorship from U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM) further underscores its significance.
Ultimately, the Infant Formula Made in America Act has the potential to provide peace of mind for families. The Act wouldn’t merely facilitate the growth of small domestic producers; it would contribute to building a more resilient and diversified industry, making it better prepared to weather future challenges and ensure the health and safety of our nation’s children.
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