Opened the debate
Green moved that the bills be read a second time, outlining measures to manage medicines shortages and discontinuations more effectively. Green argued that the legislation would require sponsors to notify the Department of Health of permanent discontinuations at least 12 months in advance, allowing better planning for patients and practitioners. Green stated that the changes would enable the Secretary to request availability information for any approved medicine, not just those designated as reportable. Green also highlighted provisions to allow similar biologicals to share a single register entry, thereby reducing costs and administrative burden for industry. Green noted that technical amendments would clarify powers for inspecting clinical trial sites and keep the Medicines Watch List current.