Bill > S2695

This bill establishes a National Synthetic Biology Center to advance agricultural innovation through cutting-edge biotechnology research. The center, to be run by the Secretary of Agriculture, will award competitive grants to eligible land-grant institutions (including 1862, 1890, and 1994 institutions) to develop synthetic biology solutions for food and agricultural challenges. Key research priorities include cellular biology, gene editing, digital agriculture, and creating new protein sources, with a focus on improving crop and animal performance, climate resilience, and food system sustainability. The center will require grant recipients to partner with other entities like nonprofits, state agencies, or national laboratories, and must coordinate research efforts and technology transfer. The bill mandates that the center create a user-friendly website to share findings and connect researchers, and submit biennial reports to Congress detailing research progress and recommendations. The legislation authorizes $5 million annually through 2030 for grant awards and an additional $1 million annually for center establishment and operations, highlighting the government's commitment to supporting synthetic biology as a critical tool for national security, economic development, and global food production.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2695/all-info