![House OKs Bill to Speed Drug Approvals, Boost Bio Research](http://townsquare.media/site/119/files/2015/07/GettyImages-463580748-630x420.jpg?w=980&q=75)
House OKs Bill to Speed Drug Approvals, Boost Bio Research
The House has overwhelmingly approved a bipartisan bill that would speed federal approval of drugs and medical devices and give a big financial boost to biomedical research.
Consumer organizations warn the measure would erode government safeguards against dangerous and ineffective products. But with strong backing from the medical industry and patients' groups, lawmakers approved it on a 344-77 vote.
Supporters say that with advances like genetic mapping and biologic medicines produced in living cells, it is time to streamline how federal regulators assess the safety of new treatments and let them reach markets.
The Obama administration has given the measure mixed reviews but has not threatened a veto. The Senate has yet to write its version of the legislation.
More From Newstalk KGVO 1290 AM & 98.3 FM
![First Responders Leap Into Action to Save People in Danger – False Calls Waste Time and Manpower](http://townsquare.media/site/119/files/2015/07/River-Rescue-1.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Confederate Flag is Removed in South Carolina](http://townsquare.media/site/119/files/2015/07/GettyImages-480220310.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Grant Creek Trail Opening More Than Just a Hit – Plans to Expand Already in the Works](http://townsquare.media/site/119/files/2015/07/grant-creek-trail.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Department of Justice Says UM Police Department Has Fully Implemented Agreement on Response to Sexual Assaults [WATCH]](http://townsquare.media/site/119/files/2015/07/UM-Main-Hall-2-Todd-Goodrich.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![The Most Popular Beer and Liquor in Montana State](http://townsquare.media/site/116/files/2015/07/RS1363_78493944-scr.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Great Weather Forecast for Missoula Marathon](http://townsquare.media/site/119/files/2015/07/Missoula-Marathon-630x472.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Glacier National Park Setting Pace for Record Year](http://townsquare.media/site/119/files/2015/07/150957826.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Scam Robs Elderly man of Life Savings – State Headlines [YouTube]](http://townsquare.media/site/119/files/2015/07/Jason-Johnson-Uniform1.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Almost $2 Million Headed to Montanans as a Result of an Insurance Dispute Over Higher Prices for Sick Consumers](http://townsquare.media/site/119/files/2015/07/GettyImages-151262785.jpg?w=980&q=75)