Agricultural Biotechnology Coordination: New Policy Office in USDA
This Act establishes the Office of Biotechnology Policy within the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to prioritize and coordinate activities related to biotechnology, biomanufacturing, and synthetic biology. The goal is to streamline research, regulation, labeling, and trade of agricultural biotech products, potentially affecting food quality and innovation. The Office is also mandated to coordinate with the EPA and FDA, aiming for clearer and more consistent rules for products entering the market.
Key points
Establishment of the Office of Biotechnology Policy within the USDA to centralize biotechnology-related activities.
The Office will coordinate policies concerning research, labeling, regulation, and commercialization of agricultural biotechnology products.
Requirement for interagency coordination with federal bodies like the EPA and FDA to ensure regulatory consistency.
Prioritization of biotechnology, biomanufacturing, and related emerging technologies within the Department of Agriculture.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_4421
Sponsor: Sen. Padilla, Alex [D-CA]
Process start date: 2024-05-23