DURBIN STATEMENT REGARDING USDA, FDA ANNOUNCEMENT ON
MAD COW DISEASE

I applaud FDA’s announcement today that it will prohibit BSE risk materials from being used in cosmetics and dietary supplements. Most Americans were not aware that there were loopholes in our nation’s prevention system that could put some cosmetics and supplements at risk. This step, which is also included in legislation I introduced in January, will help protect our nation against the spread of BSE in the United States.

The existing loopholes that allow BSE risk materials to be introduced into animal feed must be closed as well. I am pleased that the FDA is exploring proposals to protect against cross-contamination through . . .

DURBIN, LAUTENBERG ANNOUNCE EFFORTS TO TAKE ACTION AGAINST OPEC’S ILLEGAL OIL SUPPLY RESTRICTIONS

A group of lawmakers from the Senate and House has intro-duced legislation to compel the U.S. Trade Representative to file a complaint before the World Trade Organization (WTO) against OPEC for its illegal export quotas on oil. The legislation would require the Bush Administration’s top trade official, Robert Zoellick, to call on the WTO to begin proceedings to force OPEC to cease its current illegal operations. Energy analysts have stated that OPECs actions have contributed to the soaring gas prices in the United States. Senators Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Carl Levin (D-MI) are sponsors of the Senate bill and Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR) is the lead sponsor in the House . . .