Abbott Labs, FDA just took a step to getting more baby formula on shelves. How soon?

The maker of the baby formula recalled earlier this year, contributing to nationwide shortages, says it agreed to enter into a consent decree with the Food and Drug Administration that could lead to a restart in production.

Abbott Laboratories said the agreement, which will need court approval, outlines steps necessary to resume formula production at its plant in Sturgis, Michigan. It could take eight to 10 weeks after approval for new shipments of formula to arrive in stores.

“Our number one priority is getting infants and families the high-quality formulas they need, and this is a major step toward re-opening our Sturgis facility so we can ease the nationwide formula shortage,” Abbott said in a statement.

It was unclear how soon the FDA might approve the plant reopening, the New York Times reported.

Texas Sen. Ted Cruz urged President Biden and his administration to move swiftly so manufacturers can reopen and expand operations.

“For parents who rely on formula to feed their infant or small child, this shortage is nothing short of a crisis and I strongly urge you and your administration to take immediate action,” Cruz wrote Monday.