S.1387 - National Biotechnology Initiative Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The National Biotechnology Initiative Act of 2025 (S.1387) aims to advance national security, economic productivity, and competitiveness through the coordination of federal activities related to biotechnology. The bill establishes the National Biotechnology Coordination Office within the Executive Office of the President and designates an Interagency Committee to oversee the initiative. It outlines various activities for participating agencies, including research and development, data management, regulatory streamlining, and workforce development.
Expected Effects
The Act would lead to increased federal investment and coordination in biotechnology. This could result in faster innovation, new products and services, and a stronger domestic biotechnology workforce. It also aims to address national security implications and streamline regulations.
Potential Benefits
- Economic Growth: Fosters innovation and commercialization in biotechnology, leading to new industries and job creation.
- National Security: Addresses potential threats from foreign adversaries in biotechnology and strengthens domestic capabilities.
- Public Health: Advances research and development in areas such as disease prevention and treatment.
- Workforce Development: Creates training programs and educational opportunities in biotechnology.
- Regulatory Streamlining: Reduces regulatory burdens for biotechnology products, accelerating their development and market entry.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Overregulation: The creation of new offices and committees could lead to bureaucratic inefficiencies and increased regulatory burdens.
- Funding Concerns: The Act relies on future appropriations, which may not be guaranteed, potentially hindering the initiative's effectiveness.
- Privacy Risks: Increased data collection and sharing could raise concerns about the privacy and security of biological data.
- Ethical Concerns: Rapid advancements in biotechnology may raise ethical and social implications that need careful consideration.
- Unintended Consequences: Streamlined regulations could potentially lead to unforeseen risks associated with new biotechnology products.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Constitution's broad goals of promoting the general welfare (Preamble) and providing for the common defense (Preamble). Congress has the power to enact legislation necessary and proper for carrying out these enumerated powers (Article I, Section 8). The establishment of offices and committees within the Executive Branch is consistent with the President's executive power (Article II).
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).