Bill > S1387

This bill establishes the National Biotechnology Initiative, a comprehensive federal effort to advance and coordinate biotechnology activities across multiple government agencies. The initiative will involve 14 different federal departments and agencies, creating an Interagency Committee and a National Biotechnology Coordination Office to oversee and streamline biotechnology research, development, and policy. The bill defines key terms like biotechnology, bioliteracy, and biomanufacturing, and outlines specific responsibilities for participating agencies, including supporting research and development, addressing national security implications, developing workforce capabilities, promoting product commercialization, ensuring biosafety and biosecurity, and creating international partnerships. The initiative aims to enhance U.S. competitiveness in biotechnology by coordinating federal efforts, reducing regulatory barriers, supporting innovation, and developing a robust domestic biotechnology workforce. The bill authorizes funding of approximately $132 million over five years and establishes a 20-year timeline for the initiative, with provisions for annual reports, a comprehensive national biotechnology strategy, and periodic reviews by the Comptroller General to assess the program's effectiveness.

Health and Social Services

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1387/all-info