Animal Health Supplement Act: Proposed Legislation Aims to Create Clear Rules, Protect Supplements

In an effort to create a clear regulatory home for animal health supplements, the National Animal Supplement Council, or NASC, is seeking introduction of legislation to establish a permanent legal category and regulatory framework for these products. Up until now, animal health supplements have been classified as unapproved drugs due to gaps in how U.S. law is currently written. This means supplements are permitted as long as suppliers act responsibly. This could change, as enforcement discretion isn’t a permanent solution, the NASC warns.

“One bad company or product creates risk for the entire industry,” explains Bill Bookout, NASC president. “Passing the Animal Health Supplement Act would solve this problem once and for all. It would remove the threat of animal health supplements being pulled from the marketplace due to unclear laws or changes in discretionary policy. “

Here, Bookout outlines the finer points to this proposed legislation, and the benefits to everyone impacted by these products, from manufacturers and suppliers, to veterinarians, retailers and pet owners.

What will the Animal Health Supplement Act accomplish?

This legislation is meant to be far-reaching. For the industry, it distinguishes animal health supplements from drugs based on intended use. It establishes a defined regulatory category that is predictable, transparent and structured for these specific products. Through passage of this legislation, legal certainty would be created, and a clear, lawful marketing pathway would be established. Clear guidance for quality manufacturing, consistent labeling and claims, adverse event reporting and transparency across the industry would also be addressed. In short, this legislation would support product quality, consistency and innovation, while ensuring consumer protection.

What benefits are specifically tailored to animals and their owners?

First and foremost, this removes the threat of animal health supplements being pulled from the market due to unclear laws and changes in discretionary policy. It also creates more trust through clear rules and transparency that make it easier to know what you’re buying. And lastly, it supports innovation, so new and improved products can be brought to market.

Why is the time right for this action?

Enforcement discretion is never permanent. It is policy, not law. One bad ingredient or irresponsible company can impact hundreds of brands and cast a disparaging shadow on the entire industry. It also creates business uncertainty and discourages long-term investment. It’s simply not a good place to be.

What has been the level of support to date?

The Animal Health Supplement Act has generated strong interest and support from industry stakeholders, who understand the importance of establishing a legal category for animal health supplements. In addition, the NASC has been working with federal legislators and has retained a legal team and advocacy resources to help advance the legislation.

What can the industry do to support this legislation?

When the timing is right, the NASC will launch a coordinated grassroots campaign urging stakeholders, including retailers and pet owners, to contact their elected representatives and voice their support. Until then, visit saveanimalsupplements.org to sign up for updates and to learn more about the legislation.

For 25 years, the NASC has helped to improve the lives of millions of dogs, cats and horses given animal health supplements by their loved ones. Their leadership and advocacy actions have helped to shape and secure the future of an industry so many animals rely on to live their healthiest, happiest lives. This legislation is an important next step in helping to secure a permanent solution that could potentially affect 90 million pet-owning households in the U.S.

(Photo courtesy NASC)