SC Alaska News

U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska questioned Martin Makary, the nominee for Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), during a session with the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee. The discussion covered several topics including the FDA's Vaccine Advisory Committee, clinical trials for rare diseases, and funding for food safety inspections.

Murkowski expressed appreciation for Makary's assurances about the continuation of meetings by the Vaccine Advisory Committee. She emphasized the importance of these meetings: "So we’re making sure again that important input goes forward is important to many of us."

The conversation shifted to treatments for ALS and other rare diseases. Murkowski highlighted the significance of the FDA’s accelerated approval pathway and asked how common sense could be applied in regulatory decisions. Makary responded by advocating for a customized regulatory process: "We have to customize the regulatory process to what we’re trying to do if our goal is to try to provide safe and effective therapies."

Murkowski also addressed concerns over food safety inspections. She noted that state and local governments conduct a significant portion of these inspections but face potential funding cuts under current plans by the Biden Administration. Murkowski sought a commitment from Makary regarding maintaining funding levels: "I’d like to know that you’re going to be supportive in that regard to state and local governments." Makary indicated his willingness to review this issue with her.

The exchange concluded with Murkowski thanking both Dr. Makary and Mr. Chairman.