Keeping up the FDA funding pace

The House approves a continuing resolution Sept. 24 that funds most of the federal government, including FDA, at fiscal 2008 appropriation levels through March 6, 2009. The money available to FDA will be calculated on the basis of both the level in its appropriations bill and the $150 million added in a supplemental funding package. "Congress is following through with its commitment to provide additional resources for the FDA," notes Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn., Chair of the House Appropriations panel that oversees the FDA budget. At press time, the Senate was scheduled to vote on the measure on Sept. 27. Without the continuing resolution, funding for the government would cease with the start of fiscal 2009 on Oct. 1. As March approaches, it is likely Congress will pass another continuing resolution to fund the government through the end of fiscal 2009, an appropriations staffer notes. By that time, congressional appropriators will be directing their attention to the FY 2010 spending bills