To establish the Office of Biotechnology Policy in the Department of Agriculture, and for other purposes.

6/11/2024, 4:13 PM
Congress
118
Number
HR - 8539
Introduced on
2024-05-23
# Amendments
0
Sponsors
+5
Cosponsors
+5

Status of Legislation

Bill Introduced
Introduced to House
House to Vote
Introduced to Senate
Senate to Vote

Purpose and Summary

Agricultural Biotechnology Coordination Act of 2024

This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish the Office of Biotechnology Policy.

Among other things, the office must be responsible for the development and coordination of USDA policies, activities, and services related to biotechnology, including (1) research and development; (2) communication, extension, and education; (3) regulation and labeling; and (4) commercialization, use, and trade.

In addition, the office must coordinate interagency activities with the Environmental Protection Agency, the Food and Drug Administration, other federal agencies, and state agencies.

Bill 118 hr 8539, also known as the "Office of Biotechnology Policy Establishment Act," aims to create a new office within the Department of Agriculture focused on biotechnology policy. The bill outlines the responsibilities of this office, which include coordinating biotechnology policies across various agencies, conducting research on the impacts of biotechnology on agriculture, and providing guidance to farmers and other stakeholders on best practices for utilizing biotechnology in their operations.

The bill also addresses the need for transparency and public input in the development of biotechnology policies, requiring the new office to hold public hearings and solicit feedback from a wide range of stakeholders. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of ensuring that biotechnology policies are science-based and grounded in evidence.

Overall, the goal of Bill 118 hr 8539 is to establish a centralized and comprehensive approach to biotechnology policy within the Department of Agriculture, with a focus on promoting innovation, sustainability, and responsible use of biotechnology in agriculture.
Alternative Names
Official Title as IntroducedTo establish the Office of Biotechnology Policy in the Department of Agriculture, and for other purposes.

Comments

Recent Activity

Latest Summary1/28/2025

Agricultural Biotechnology Coordination Act of 2024

This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish the Office of Biotechnology Policy.

Among other things, the office must be responsible for the dev...

Latest Action5/23/2024
Referred to the House Committee on Agriculture.