I am writing to express my strong opposition to any legislation that would implement Adverse Event Reporting (AER) for dietary supplements (S.3546/H.R.6168).

     AER for dietary supplements is both unnecessary and irrational. Dietary supplements already have a safety record unmatched by any other consumables.  Any American is more likely to die from a bee sting or a lightning strike than they are from dietary supplements. Implementing AERs for dietary supplements is providing a "solution" for a non-problem.

     More importantly, AER for dietary supplements treats them as if they are drugs.  This is a dangerous precedent and, as mentioned above, completely unnecessary.  Food, which causes thousands of deaths a year, has no AER system and yet certain legislators are trying to impose an AER system on dietary supplements, which cause at worst 2 or 3 deaths a year!  This is nonsense. AER implementation will limit my option for effective health care that my family and I count on.

     I am also deeply concerned about S.3807 which gives the FDA more power to speed dangerous drugs onto the market and does not solve the grave risk posed by unmonitored medications.  This issue of drug safety is of paramount importance and must be fully addressed and debated in the new legislative year.  Efforts to rush bad legislation through in the lame duck session,

under the false pretense of consumer safety, are unacceptable.

     In this era of skyrocketing healthcare and insurance costs, I consider nutritional supplements to be an inexpensive, effective way to maintain my own health and support the health of my entire family.  AER will violate my health freedom by compromising my right to be healthy and make choices as to the best possible care that I desire for my family and me.

     I strongly oppose S.3546/H.R. 6168 and S.3807.  This is bad legislation for the health of Americans.

     Please stand up for our right to take safe, natural nutritional supplements - oppose AER.  When you join the fight for health freedom, millions of Americans who take nutritional supplements will thank you with their votes and ongoing support.

    Sincerely,

    [Your Name & Address]