Dangerous Viral Gain of Function Research Moratorium Act

Bill 119 s 738, also known as the Moratorium on Dangerous Gain-of-Function Research Act, aims to temporarily halt all Federal research grants to any institution of higher education or research institute that is conducting dangerous gain-of-function research. Gain-of-function research involves altering viruses or other pathogens to make them more transmissible or deadly in order to study their potential impact on human health.

The bill seeks to address concerns about the potential risks associated with this type of research, including the accidental release of dangerous pathogens and the potential for bioterrorism. By imposing a moratorium on Federal funding for institutions engaged in dangerous gain-of-function research, the bill aims to prevent the further development of potentially harmful pathogens and protect public health and safety.

If passed, the bill would require institutions conducting gain-of-function research to halt their activities and comply with the moratorium until further regulations are put in place to ensure the safe and responsible conduct of this type of research. The bill does not seek to ban gain-of-function research altogether, but rather to pause it temporarily while appropriate safety measures are put in place. Overall, Bill 119 s 738 represents a bipartisan effort to address the potential risks associated with dangerous gain-of-function research and to ensure that research in this area is conducted responsibly and in the best interest of public health and safety.