Congressman Troy Carter recently joined DC Current to discuss critical bipartisan legislation advancing through Congress aimed at protecting consumers, strengthening local economies, and modernizing scientific research.
Cracking Down on Illegal Imports
The House recently passed the Destruction of Hazardous Imports Act, a bipartisan effort co-led by Rep. Troy Carter and Rep. Clay Higgins. This bill empowers the FDA to seize, destroy, and fine importers who attempt to bring unsafe goods into American markets.
Currently, foreign suppliers whose products fail inspection at one port often engage in “port shopping.” They transport rejected goods—such as uninspected seafood containing harmful carcinogens—to other entry points or sell them illegally on the street. This unfair practice undercuts local shrimpers and poses severe health risks. The new legislation eliminates this loophole by forcing violators to pay for the complete destruction of non-compliant products, including illicit vapes and unapproved pharmaceuticals.
Accelerating FDA Modernization
Rep. Carter also highlighted the FDA Modernization Act 3.0. While previous legislation permitted drug developers to use alternatives to animal testing, the FDA failed to establish clear regulatory guidelines for these methods. FDA Modernization Act 3.0 directs the agency to outline acceptable alternative testing processes, paving the way for faster, more effective drug discovery without relying on unnecessary animal testing.
Fortifying Local Infrastructure
Beyond legislative victories, Rep. Carter emphasized hurricane preparedness in Louisiana. Through federally funded Community Lighthouses, local neighborhoods now feature solar-powered resiliency hubs that provide uninterrupted power for medical devices and critical supplies during severe storms and grid failures.
Both legislative bills now head to the Senate, where lawmakers aim to pass them before the congressional session ends.