OKC Standard

Today, a significant report and action plan were delivered by the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) to Congress, indicating a need for immediate legislative effort to harness American innovation in biotechnology. Representative Bice (R-OK-05), one of the Commissioners, underscores the necessity for such action to retain the United States’ leadership in this critical sector.

The report warns that the U.S., traditionally a leader in biotech innovation, risks being surpassed by China. According to NSCEB Chair Senator Todd Young (R-IN), "The United States is locked in a competition with China that will define the coming century. Biotechnology is the next phase in that competition."

Highlighting dependence on China's supply chains as a critical security risk, Senator Young emphasized biotechnology’s potential in fortifying national defense and economic resilience. "Biotechnology can ensure our warfighters continue to be the strongest fighting force on tomorrow’s battlefields," he stated.

Dr. Michelle Rozo, NSCEB Vice Chair, reiterated the strategic importance of U.S.-led biotech development. "Technology is not inherently good or bad, but who uses it matters," Rozo noted, stressing the urgency of setting standards globally.

The report describes biotechnology’s rapid expansion beyond healthcare, significantly impacting agriculture, infrastructure, manufacturing, and defense. The fusion of artificial intelligence also amplifies its reach. Commissioner Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) remarked on the sector's promise, "Biotechnology holds immense potential to transform numerous key sectors of our economy."

The Commission emphasizes biotechnology's pivotal role in military innovation, enhancing logistics and supply chain security, as pointed out by Commissioner Representative Stephanie Bice (R-OK-5). She stressed the necessity for the U.S. to "take the lead in biotechnology."

Strategic federal action to enable innovation and investment is deemed vital to maintain biotech leadership. "American ingenuity is stifled by outdated regulations in this sector. Only Congress can open the door to the American-led biotechnological future," remarked Commissioner Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA-17).

The NSCEB report proposes six pillars and 49 recommendations, aiming to elevate biotechnology on a national scale and outpace strategic competitors through private sector mobilization and global partnerships. Full details are available at www.biotech.senate.gov/final-report.