The U.S. House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee on May 16 approved a bipartisan bill sponsored by U.S. Rep. John Moolenaar (R-MI) that aims to prevent outbreaks of tuberculosis (TB) from infected human cell and tissue products.
The Shandra Eisenga Human Cell and Tissue Product Safety Act, H.R. 7188, which Rep. Moolenaar introduced alongside lead original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI), now moves to the full chamber for consideration.
The bill is named in honor of Michigan resident Shandra Eisenga, 57, who died on Aug. 10, 2023 due to complications from TB, which she contracted through a contaminated bone graft she received in April 2023.
“The tragic passing of Shandra Eisenga should have never happened, and I am pleased my bill in her memory is moving forward,” Rep. Moolenaar said. “This vital bipartisan legislation will prevent future tuberculosis outbreaks with additional oversight on donor material providers, and serve as an honor to Shandra’s legacy.”
H.R. 7188 would require the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to conduct research and education campaigns designed to prevent TB outbreaks from infected human cell and tissue products (HCTPs), according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.
Additionally, H.R. 7188 would require the Food and Drug Administration to update guidance for HCTP providers and companies, the summary says.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported last summer that at least two people died after contaminated bone tissue products from the same deceased donor were used in 36 patients who underwent surgical or dental procedures in hospitals and dental offices earlier in 2023, according to media reports, which said a similar outbreak in 2021 killed eight people.
U.S. Sens. Gary Peters (D-MI) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) introduced the same legislation in their chamber, according to Rep. Moolenaar’s staff.