White House office would lead U.S. biotech coordination

What does this do?

This bill directs the president to set up a new office inside the White House to coordinate biotechnology work across more than a dozen federal agencies. The office would be led by a presidentially appointed Director and would oversee things like research funding, regulations, worker training, biological security, and international trade for biotech products. The government would also be required to publish a public website with plain-language information and regulatory guidance, and to produce regular reports and a national strategy.

Who does it affect?

Federal agencies including the Departments of Defense, Agriculture, Health and Human Services, and Energy would take part in this effort. Researchers, businesses, students, workers, and members of the general public who interact with biotechnology in any form would also be affected.

Why does it matter?

The coordination role is designed to run intensively for 20 years and then shift to a lighter support function. Without a coordinated effort, the U.S. government's biotechnology activities across many agencies would continue to operate separately.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• ~$132M authorized over 5 years
• Funds new White House office