The Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) applauds members of the House of Representatives for passing the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness and Advancing Innovation Act (PAHPAI) of 2019.

Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) President and CEO Jim Greenwood released the following statement today on the departure of United Airlines’ “Flight for the Planet.” The flight, which is traveling on World Environment Day from Chicago O’Hare to Los Angeles, is the most eco-friendly commercial flight of its kind in the history of aviation. 

Washington, D.C. (June 5, 2019) – The Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) released the following statement on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) announcement of proposed revisions to its biotechnology regulations, referred to by the agency as the “SECURE” rule. The following statement may be attributed to Dana O’Brien, executive vice president of BIO’s food & agriculture section: “BIO appreciates USDA’s diligent approach in undertaking this important biotechnology rulemaking and the agency’s overall commitment to improving predictability and pre-market oversight based on actual risk. We are thoroughly reviewing the proposal with our members as well as with key stakeholders and look forward to engaging with USDA in the coming weeks. “A functional, predictable, legally defensible, and science-based regulatory infrastructure must be accompanied by credible, proactive transparency measures if we are to spur continued investment in and long-term success for the biology-driven innovations that are improving our planet, health, and food. These advancements, driven by a deep understanding of biology and genetics, are at the very heart of BIO’s mission and membership. “Looking forward, BIO will continue its emphasis on bolstering the benefits-driven dialogues that are helping identify shared values and energize consumer understanding and acceptance.” ### Download BIO's comments on USDA's proposed Part 340 rule here:

A new slate of officers and Board members were elected during the 2019 BIO International Convention

Philadelphia, PA (June 4, 2019) – The Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) released “Transforming Ideas into Advances: Best Practices in State and Regional Bioscience Economic Development Initiatives” today at the 2019 BIO International Convention. The fifth edition of the Best Practices Guide is the bioscience industry’s leading comprehensive analysis of state legislative and regulatory initiatives in support of economic development. Almost every state in the country has continued to actively engage in building bioscience infrastructure. Throughout the last decade, understanding of the economic potential of the industry has led to policies and programs that provide supportive tax environments in capital formation, technology transfer, and funding for a workforce to facilitate research, development, and manufacturing. “The policies our elected officials pursue directly impact the ability of bioscience companies to turn breakthroughs in the lab into life-saving medications on the pharmacy shelf,” said Jim Greenwood, President and CEO of BIO. “This report demonstrates that amid challenging budget environments, state elected officials continue to lead and support economic development initiatives that encourage the type of innovation that leads to new bioscience products and continued job growth.” The report, which conducted a review of all 50 states and their initiatives to support the bioscience companies highlights key examples of state efforts to grow and sustain the bioscience industry while emphasizing the importance of developing trained workforces that will create, grow, and retain bioscience companies. In evaluating initiatives put forth by the states, the report also explores the rational behind current legislative efforts and offers a reference guide showing the application of specific legislation in certain states and outcomes. "Nationwide, our industry directly employs more than 1.7 million people. These are high-quality jobs, paying…

BIO announces the hiring of Rich Masters as BIO's new Executive Vice President (EVP) for Public Affairs. Rich officially will join BIO on June 17th. 

The Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) today released the following statement after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized its rule allowing for the year-round use E15 gasoline.

Washington, D.C. (May 31, 2019) – Today, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) released the 2019 Emerging Therapeutic Company Trend Report, highlighting ten years (2009-2018) of biotechnology funding and deal making across five areas: venture capital, Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), follow-on public offerings, licensing, and acquisitions. The report also contains a 2019 snapshot of the industry’s clinical pipeline to highlight the significant contribution of emerging companies.

BIO announces the winner of this year’s Henri A. Termeer Biotechnology Visionary Award: Emil D. Kakkis, MD, PhD, President and Chief Executive Officer, Ultragenyx (NASDAQ: RARE) and Founder, EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases. The award, which will be presented to Dr. Kakkis on June 5 during the BIO 2019 International Convention keynote session, recognizes Dr. Kakkis’ transformative work to accelerate research and development of novel treatments for rare diseases.