Summary of Bill HRES 403
Bill 117 H.Res. 403 is a resolution that provides for the consideration of two separate bills in the US Congress. The first bill, H.R. 1629, aims to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act in order to place limitations on the exclusive approval or licensure of orphan drugs. Orphan drugs are medications that are developed to treat rare diseases or conditions that affect a small number of people. This bill seeks to ensure that these drugs are more readily available to those who need them, rather than being held back by exclusive approval or licensure agreements.
The second bill that will be considered under this resolution is H. Res. 275, which condemns the horrific shootings that took place in Atlanta, Georgia on March 16, 2021. The resolution reaffirms the House of Representatives' commitment to combating hate, bigotry, and violence against the Asian-American and Pacific Islander community. This bill aims to address the rise in hate crimes and discrimination against the AAPI community, particularly in the wake of the Atlanta shootings.
Overall, Bill 117 H.Res. 403 provides for the consideration of two important pieces of legislation that address issues related to healthcare access and racial discrimination. The resolution seeks to promote inclusivity and equality, while also ensuring that orphan drugs are more readily available to those who need them.
Congressional Summary of HRES 403
This resolution sets forth the rule for consideration of H.R. 1629 (Fairness in Orphan Drug Exclusivity Act) and H. Res. 275 (condemning the acts of gun violence that led to the tragic loss of eight lives in Georgia on March 16, 2021). In addition, the resolution adopts H. Res. 398 (recognizing the forthcoming centennial of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre and reaffirming the House of Representative's opposition to violence against Asian Americans).
The resolution also extends through July 1, 2021, the waiver of certain procedural requirements regarding journal approval, adjournment, suspension of the rules, and consideration of certain resolutions.
Finally, the resolution authorizes the Speaker of the House at any time through the legislative day of Thursday, May 20, 2021, to suspend the rules on multiple measures that were the object of a motion to suspend the rules on the legislative day of May 17, 2021, or May 18, 2021.