Journal or Publishing Institution: Drake Journal of Agricultural Law
Study: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2175622
Author(s): Lee-Muramoto, M.R.
Article Type: Report
Record ID: 1696
Abstract: This Article will focus on how the United States can reform the current regulatory system for agricultural biotechnology given the significant political, economic, and social challenges the regulations governing this industry pose. The proposed reform will emphasize four key objectives to be achieved through legislative mandates. First, the Coordinated Framework was built upon dated scientific principles that have since proven to be flawed, and the doctrine of “substantial equivalence,” the premise and driving force behind the U.S. regulatory system, is no longer credible and should be abandoned. Second, systematic risk assessment and safety testing must be incorporated into the pre-release or pre-market review process. Third, post-market monitoring must be instituted as part of the overall risk management program. Lastly, a system of coordination should be developed for the three agencies involved in biotech monitoring. Aside from legislative changes, policy objectives should strive to encourage independent research and investments. Transparency should be improved because continual success for the industry will depend on society’s willingness to purchase and consume food produced through biotechnology. In order for this to take place, consumers must trust that regulators are being forthright with them while exercising proper oversight.
Citation: Lee-Muramoto, M.R., 2012. Reforming the uncoordinated framework for regulation of biotechnology. Drake Journal of Agricultural Law, 17(2), p.311.
