To establish a Biotechnology Management Office in the Department of Defense and to provide support for the research and development of bioindustrial manufacturing processes, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 6664 aims to establish a Biotechnology Management Office within the Department of Defense (DoD). This office will be responsible for fostering the development, acquisition, and sustainment of biotechnology capabilities. The bill also supports research and development in bioindustrial manufacturing processes by allowing the DoD to use research and development funds for these activities.
Expected Effects
The establishment of the Biotechnology Management Office will likely lead to increased investment and focus on biotechnology within the DoD. This could accelerate the development and deployment of biotechnology-based products for defense applications. The bill also amends existing legislation to allow for funding of bioindustrial manufacturing research.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced national security through advanced biotechnology capabilities.
- Potential for new jobs in the biotechnology and bioindustrial manufacturing sectors.
- Streamlined regulatory processes for biotechnology adoption within the DoD.
- Increased public-private partnerships in biotechnology research and development.
- Improved coordination of biotechnology efforts across government, industry, and academia.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending on biotechnology initiatives.
- Risk of misuse or unintended consequences of advanced biotechnology applications.
- Possible regulatory hurdles and delays in implementing the new office and its initiatives.
- Concerns about the ethical implications of biotechnology research and development.
- The sunset clause could lead to uncertainty about the long-term sustainability of the office.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the constitutional mandate to provide for the common defense (Preamble). Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States, which includes funding and organizing the military. The establishment of a Biotechnology Management Office within the Department of Defense falls under this purview.
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).