Senate approves Jane Henney to lead FDA

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Senate heeded the recommendation of the Senate Labor and Human Resources Committee and voted to confirm Jane Henney, M.D., as the commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration.

"The discussions I have had with many members of the Senate over the past several weeks have reaffirmed my belief that the FDA serves as a non-partisan arbiter of public policy, with decisions that are grounded in science and law," Henney said.

"As I have made clear in prior statements, my priority as commissioner will be to implement the FDA Modernization Act and to strengthen the agency's scientific base to ensure the best science guides the critical decisions that need to be made," Henney said.

Secretary Shalala said of Henney: "Jane Henney is a seasoned professional who brings substantial management skills and a depth of experience to the agency. The FDA safeguards food and drugs from the factory to the store shelf to every medicine cabinet and kitchen cupboard in America. Dr. Henney has the judgment to carry out that vital responsibility in a changing health marketplace, and I know that she will forge new and productive relationships with consumers and the industry." PR