DeLauro Statement on Food Safety Funding in President’s Budget

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (Conn. -3), chairwoman of the Agriculture-FDA Appropriations Subcommittee, issued the following statement on food safety funding in President Barack Obama's proposed budget for fiscal year 2010.

"It is very encouraging to have the Obama Administration express a strong commitment toward improving our food safety system. As chair of the subcommittee that oversees the FDA budget, I am pleased that Congress has increased FDA's funding by almost 40 percent since Democrats took control in 2007. A substantial early investment in food safety by the Administration will be critical toward building upon this foundation that Congress has established.

"The numerous foodborne illness outbreaks the past few years has demonstrated the FDA's inability to protect our food supply. I look forward to working with the Administration to ensure we restore and strengthen the food safety functions at the agency."