The House Agriculture Committee forwarded a draft of a five-year Farm Bill with numerous measures supporting biotech by a 33-21 bipartisan vote early this morning.
Why it matters: “By including provisions that advance biotechnology innovation in the Farm Bill, we as a country commit to advancing science-based solutions that help us feed and fuel our world while protecting the environment,” said John Torres, BIO Director of Federal Government Relations, Agriculture & Environment. “We are proud of BIO’s input and influence on this draft.”
What we know so far: BIO is still analyzing the impacts of amendments to H.R. 8467. Overall, the draft speaks directly to BIO’s membership, supporting innovative work in the lab, field, and marketplace, Torres said. It would:
- Advance and enlarge the “virtuous circle” of biotechnology-driven innovation.
- Treat biotechnology as a national security imperative.
- Identify and break down barriers to accessing medicines, in animal health and pandemic preparedness provisions.
- Support biotech’s unique role in food security and climate impact.
What’s next: “Today’s markup is just one of many steps yet to be taken to achieve a bipartisan agreement that will guide the work of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA),” said John Torres. The bill would need to pass the full House and Senate before it can be signed into law.
BIO’s take: “BIO commends the leadership of Glenn Thompson (R-PA), the members of the House Agriculture Committee, and Committee staff on their hard work and dedication to advancing a new Farm Bill,” said Torres. “We look forward to continuing our work with members, association partners, coalitions, agencies, and our friends in Congress to get a bipartisan bill passed and sent to the President.”
