U.S. Lawmakers Push for Licensing on Synthetic DNA Exports

A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers has introduced bills requiring firms to obtain a license before exporting synthetic DNA sequences. The aim is to protect American biotech innovations from foreign adversaries. The proposal has been supported by Senators Tom Cotton, Maggie Hassan, Ted Budd, and Representatives Warren Davidson and Chrissy Houlahan.

This week, bipartisan efforts by U.S. lawmakers led to the introduction of bills that would mandate American firms to secure a license for exporting synthetic DNA sequences. The initiative underscores the significance of safeguarding proprietary DNA research, a cornerstone of the booming biotech industry.

The new legislation requires companies to obtain an export license before sending these digital sequences to nations like China and Russia. Senator Tom Cotton emphasized the importance of protecting American intellectual property from adversaries, including 'Communist China.'

Supporting the bills alongside Senator Cotton are Senator Maggie Hassan, a New Hampshire Democrat, Senator Ted Budd, a North Carolina Republican, and Representatives Warren Davidson and Chrissy Houlahan. The proposed legislation highlights a strategic move to secure the intellectual assets fueling U.S. biotech innovation.

(With inputs from agencies.)