Bill > S854

This bill establishes the Life Sciences Research Security Board (LSRSB), an independent agency within the Executive Branch tasked with reviewing and potentially blocking federal funding for high-risk life sciences research. The board will consist of 9 members appointed by the President, including scientists, national security experts, and a biosafety expert, who will serve 4-year terms. The board's primary mission is to independently determine whether an agency can award federal funding for proposed high-risk life sciences research, with a decision that will be binding on the agency. Key provisions include requiring researchers to disclose potential high-risk research, mandating agency certification of research proposals, and establishing a comprehensive review process that considers potential threats to public health, safety, and national security. The board will have the authority to request additional information, pause ongoing research, and recommend biosafety and biosecurity controls. Researchers and agencies that fail to comply with the board's requirements may face significant penalties, including suspension of funding, debarment, and potential employee discipline. The bill authorizes $30 million in funding annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2035 and requires periodic GAO audits of the board's activities. The legislation aims to create a robust oversight mechanism for potentially dangerous life sciences research that could pose risks to public health or national security.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/854/all-info