BIO President & CEO John F. Crowley announced today that BIO would take several important steps to reaffirm the organization’s position with regards to national security and the role that the industry plays as a vital strategic asset: “As a combat veteran and former Naval Intelligence Officer with JSOC and member of the U.S. Intelligence Community, I have a uniquely vivid perspective on the threats posed to the national security of America and our allies.  Specifically, the United States and our allies need a robust and vibrant American biotechnology industry.  Biotechnology is a vital strategic asset that is essential to strengthen and protect our public health generally, and as well in response to future pandemics and the potential for bioterrorism. It is also an essential element of our ability to project abroad the principles and benefits of a free and democratic society. “The capabilities and capacity to create, manufacture and distribute state-of-the-art newer and better medicines and vaccines is the foundation for America to continue its essential role as the “World’s Medicine Chest.”  Our adversaries abroad have stated that they intend to become the biotechnology center of excellence in the world.  America and our allies cannot let this happen. Securing and advancing our preeminence in biomanufacturing will be one key component of a multi-prong approach to secure and advance this strategic imperative in biotechnology.” As such, BIO is taking the following immediate steps: BIO will support the BIOSECURE Act and will work with Congress as this legislation progresses. BIO has members across the U.S. working on groundbreaking new medicines and biotechnologies. This breadth of experience and expertise provide BIO with unique perspectives into the types of policies and investments needed to ensure that the U.S. can continue to lead the world in this strategically important sector. BIO will work with policymakers on both sides of the…