See the summary on the USMA "laws" page
Specifically as passed by Congress, section 1459 exempts drugs that fall under
certain classifications (which I didn't track down definition of)
Section 1453 allows FDA (over authority of Secretary of Health and Human
Services) to exempt certain categories of products.
Finally, I think medical devices would generally be durables and not fall in
the
category of consumables comsumed or used up.
Note that sec. 1459 exempts broad swaths of other things that fall under other
Federal agencies.
Also, note for drugs, net contents is often a count, and the strength of the
pill is a descriptor.
________________________________
From: Team Metric Info <i...@metricrules.org>
To: U.S. Metric Association <usma@colostate.edu>
Sent: Fri, April 5, 2013 3:51:32 PM
Subject: [USMA:52602] FPLA question
Does anyone know how drug and medical devices became exempt from FPLA- they are
metric-only correct? Did the FDA just give them a waiver or did someone seek
congressional approval/ amendment?
* Basic Requirements: The FPLA requires each package of household
"consumer
commodities" that is included in the coverage of the FPLA to bear a label on
which there is:
* a statement identifying the commodity, e.g., detergent, sponges, etc.;
* the name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer, or
distributor;
* and the net quantity of contents in terms of weight, measure, or
numerical
count (measurement must be in both metric and inch/pound units).
* Purpose of the Act: The FPLA is designed to facilitate value
comparisons and
to prevent unfair or deceptive packaging and labeling of many household
"consumer commodities."
* FDA: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) administers the FPLA with
respect
to foods, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices. The FTC administers the FPLA
with respect to other "consumer commodities" that are consumed or expended in
the household.
