On April 11, 2014, Kathleen Sebelius resigned from her post as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), a leadership position that oversees FDA and generally has ultimate authority over the agency's actions (although rarely does the Secretary of HHS opt to exercise such authority). President Obama swiftly nominated Sylvia Mathews Burwell, current director of the Office of Management & Budget, to take over the position and she awaits confirmation.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.