Trump Acts on Drug Manufacturing, Research Oversight

President Trump signed several executive actions to strengthen U.S. health policy, including a crackdown on federally funded gain-of-function research and measures to boost domestic drug manufacturing. The actions enhance oversight and enforcement against gain-of-function research due to concerns about pandemic risks. On pharmaceutical manufacturing, the executive order directs the FDA to expedite approvals for domestic plants, raises fees for foreign plant inspections, and instructs the EPA to accelerate construction of facilities and ingredient production in the U.S. The administration is also considering tariffs on imported pharmaceuticals, which may alter supply chain dynamics. Proponents of the measures argue they will secure the U.S. drug supply, while critics warn of potential higher costs and shortages. Additionally, Trump proclaimed May as National Mental Health Awareness Month, expanding the administration's health agenda.