In response to a widespread infant formula shortage that troubled families nationwide, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) and U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) have introduced the Infant Formula Made in America Act. This legislation aims to bolster domestic infant formula production through a new tax credit program aimed at supporting small and emerging U.S. formula manufacturers. The move comes as a strategic effort to prevent future shortages and ensure that parents can reliably obtain safe infant formula.
Senator Casey highlighted the profound anxiety experienced by families during the shortage, underscoring the critical need for reliable infant nutrition. The bill seeks to diversify the formula market, which became evident as a necessity following the 2022 shortage, which left shelves empty and parents desperate. Congresswoman DeLauro emphasized the dual challenges of food safety and supply chain consolidation that contributed to the crisis, advocating for a more competitive market to enhance accessibility and safety.
Senator Casey has been at the forefront of addressing the formula crisis, actively engaging with manufacturers and federal agencies to implement safeguards and ensure transparency. His consistent advocacy includes pressing for detailed investigations into past shortages and proposing legislative measures to mitigate future risks.
The proposed tax credit is designed to empower smaller producers, fostering a more robust and resilient domestic industry.