Takeaways from the AP's report on turmoil surrounding the FDA's new fast-track drug program

Questions remain among top Food and Drug Administration officials over who has the appropriate legal authority to sign off on drugs cleared under a new plan to slash FDA drug review times. The initiative by FDA Commissioner Marty Makary promises ultra-fast reviews for drugs that align with “U.S. national priorities.” It’s at the center of Makary’s stated goal to “cut red tape” and “challenge assumptions” at the agency tasked with assuring the safety of food, medicines, medical devices and other consumer goods. But FDA staffers tell The Associated Press the push for faster approvals is contributing to a climate of anxiety, fear and confusion within the agency’s drug center.