I continue to be inspired by breakthroughs in scientific research coming out of the 21^st century, and I am committed to smart policies that advance these breakthroughs and pave the way for new possibilities.

I wanted to let you know the House Energy and Commerce Committee met this week to consider a slew of bipartisan bills that bring innovative solutions to an array of issues, ranging from furthering the FDA review process for sunscreen to modernizing Muscular Dystrophy research and education activities.

Here’s a list of the bipartisan legislation, which passed via voice vote at this week’s meeting:

1.     H.R. 4250, the bipartisan Sunscreen Innovation Act modernizes the FDA’s sunscreen approval process for new sunscreen while adhering to strict safety standards. It has been nearly over a decade since the FDA has approved a single new sunscreen ingredient, and this legislation fosters innovation while allowing new sunscreen products to reach the marketplace.

2.     H.R. 4771, the bipartisan Designer Anabolic Steroid Control Act, which addresses new designer anabolic steroids that are marketed as dietary supplements. Through the Controlled Substances Act, this bill makes it easier for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to identify and list new drugs or substances and protect consumers from purchasing potentially harmful products.

3.      H.R. 594, the bipartisan Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Community Assistance, Research and Education Amendments of 2014 updates research and education activities to reflect scientific developments and continues the support of Muscular Dystrophy research and patient support initiatives.

4.      H.R. 4290, the Wakefield Act, which improves the quality of all emergency medical and emergency surgical care children receive.

5.     H.R. 669, the bipartisan Sudden Unexpected Death and Data Enhancement and Awareness Act, which helps standardize reporting and data collection.