Panel: FDA Needs Clout to Mandate Recalls

WASHINGTON — An advisory commission created in response to concerns about recalls of dangerous toothpaste, dog food and toys will recommend to President Bush that the Food and Drug Administration be empowered to order mandatory recalls of products deemed a risk to consumers, an administration official said Monday.

Currently, the FDA lacks the authority to order recalls, but works with producers on voluntary recalls. The proposal would give the agency far more clout.

The panel also will urge increasing the presence of U.S. inspectors from Customs, the Border Patrol, the Consumer Product Safety Commission and other agencies in countries that are major exporters to the United States.

The official said the proposals would strengthen CPSC's authority by making it illegal for firms to knowingly sell a recalled product; by authorizing the CPSC to issue follow-up recall announcements; and by requiring recalling companies to report supplier and delivery information. Further, CPSC would be able to impose asset forfeiture penalties for criminal offenses.

Read the full Associated Press story here.