Bill > S272

This bill, titled the "Protect Infant Formula from Contamination Act," aims to enhance the safety of infant formula by mandating stricter testing and reporting protocols for manufacturers. Specifically, it requires infant formula manufacturers to notify the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) within one business day of confirming a positive test result for any microorganism that requires finished product testing, regardless of whether the product has left their facility. Manufacturers must also consult with the Secretary to isolate affected products, potentially cease distribution, and dispose of contaminated items, while also providing test results and genetic sequencing data. The Secretary is then required to respond to manufacturers within one business day to discuss investigations and corrective actions, and within 90 days, confirm that manufacturers have conducted appropriate investigations and corrective measures, considering the testing methods and potential for cross-contamination. Furthermore, the bill mandates that the Secretary issue a progress report on implementing recommendations to improve infant formula safety and supply, and provide quarterly reports on critical supply chain data for five years to relevant congressional committees. The Secretary will also consult with other federal agencies to address immediate formula needs and build long-term market resilience, and will conduct reports at one, three, and five years after enactment to identify evidence-based practices for maximizing infant formula supply and safety, including the value of frequent testing and the impact of corrective actions.

Health and Social Services

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/272/all-info