Senate Flip Could Prop 21st Century Cures Initiative, but Flop FDA Efforts, Says Nick Manetto in Inside Health Policy

The expected flip of the U.S. Senate following the midterm elections on November 4, 2014 could bring with it changes to the regulatory structure in the U.S. While most political observers believe that under a GOP Senate, the FDA will have a difficult time implementing new laws under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), they also note that efforts to move forward on the 21^st Century Cures initiative may improve.

FaegreBD Consulting director Nick Manetto has more than a decade in government affairs, public policy and strategic communications. Manetto said that while the GOP will have an easier time controlling the debate on bills, the Senate would still need bipartisan support since the numbers will still be close.

Manetto said that on election night, he will be watching Michigan's 6th congressional district race closely as the current holder of that seat, Fred Upton (R-MI), is the chairman of the House Energy & Commerce Committee and was instrumental in introducing the 21^st Century Cures initiative with a House Democrat.