Congress is moving one step closer to regulating personal care products. In mid-May, S. 1113, a bill to amend the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act to ensure the safety of cosmetics, sponsored by Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), was referred to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, to consider before sending it to the Senate floor for consideration.


However, the Independent Cosmetic Manufacturers and Distributors (ICMAD) Association raised concerns about the legislation. It said the act would stifle innovation and job growth in the cosmetic industry without improving safety. ICMAD reiterated support for the Cosmetic Modernization Amendment (CMA), which is also endorsed by the Professional Beauty Association.


“We appreciate that Senators Feinstein and Susan Collins (R-ME) share a commitment to protecting consumers, however the Personal Care Products Safety Act would do more harm than good in the name of promoting safety,” said Pam Busiek, president and CEO, ICMAD. “We support a different approach that is consistent with other FDA programs to strengthen consumer protections without stifling innovation and affecting jobs.”


Busiek said ICMAD endorses the CMA sponsored by Congressman Pete Sessions, which would enhance FDA oversight, create a national standard, and provide clear direction for all companies. She noted safety is an essential component to members’ businesses and a top priority to ICMAD. 


“We are pleased to share like-minded thinking with our sister association, the Profesional Beauty Association, who also supports H.R. 575, the Cosmetic Modernization Amendment,” she added.