Montgomery County Police Chief Thomas Manger + On The Fast Track: The FDA And Drug Approvals




WAMU-FM: WAMU: The Kojo Nnamdi Show Podcast show

Summary: <p>MONTGOMERY COUNTY POLICE CHIEF THOMAS MANGER: Among the ballot questions Montgomery County voters face on Tuesday is a matter related to the collective bargaining rights of the police union. The county's police chief argues it's necessary to change "effects bargaining" rules that he feels limit his ability to manage the department effectively. He joins us to explore the issue and follow up on our conversation with union officials who oppose the ballot question from earlier this year. (15 min.) ON THE FAST TRACK: THE FDA AND DRUG APPROVALS: In the past year, the Food and Drug Administration approved 35 new medicines — a near-record for the last decade. After years of slow but steady drug approvals, the FDA is considering speedier review and acceptance of innovative medicines, especially obesity treatments, antibiotics and drugs to fight infectious diseases. But scientists warn expedited approvals come with enhanced risks. We explore the push for new medications and the struggle to balance risks and benefits. (35 min.)</p>