ICYMI: Congresswoman Schrier Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Cut Bureaucratic Red Tape, Support Lifesaving Blood Centers

WASHINGTON, DC –  Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) and Congressman Tony Wied (WI-08) introduced the BLOOD Centers Act, a bipartisan bill to cut onerous administrative requirements placed on blood centers to help ensure that hospitals have a sufficient blood supply to meet patient needs. Congressman Tom Tiffany (WI-07) was also an original cosponsor.

"As a doctor, I know that donated blood products save lives in dire situations," said Congresswoman Schrier, M.D. “Redundant regulation and red tape make it harder for blood centers to get blood products where they are needed, when they are needed.  I'm proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan legislation to reduce unnecessary administrative hurdles without compromising patient safety." 

“At a time when our nation’s blood supply has reached a critical low, we must do everything we can to cut through red tape to ensure that people who are willing to donate can do so easily and swiftly,” said Congressman Wied. “That is why I am proud to introduce the bipartisan BLOOD Centers Act to expedite the ability of blood centers to open new locations and collect life-saving blood for those who need it.”

Under current Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, blood centers must report changes, including the addition of a new fixed site, to their approved biologics license applications (BLA). This process can include additional steps, further delaying federal approval and preventing blood centers from expanding their operations. Congresswoman Schrier’s bill addresses this issue by instructing the FDA to create an expedited licensure process following passage of the legislation. This will bring much-needed efficiency improvements to the process while maintaining rigorous safety standards. 

“Government red tape and delays can cost lives when every drop counts,” said Congressman Tiffany. “The BLOOD Centers Act streamlines approvals and requires the FDA to act within 30 days so lifesaving donations can reach patients quicker.”

“America’s Blood Centers applauds Rep. Wied and Rep. Schrier for introducing legislation to modernize regulations that impede patient access to life-saving blood products,” said Kate Fry, CEO of America’s Blood Centers. “Current licensure requirements impose redundant FDA reviews every time a new collection site opens, even when the same equipment, staff, and procedures are already approved and in use. By streamlining this process, this legislation will eliminate inefficiencies, help new donation sites open in a timely manner, and ensure patients have access to the safe and available blood supply they depend on.”