House science hearing urges sustained investment in biotechnology amid security risks and proposed budget cuts

A joint hearing of House Science, Space, and Technology subcommittees on “Pursuing the Golden Age of Innovation: Strategic Priorities in Biotechnology” centered on bipartisan concern that the United States must increase public investment, coordination, and protective standards to preserve scientific leadership and national security.

Members and witnesses said the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) report should guide new federal action. Representative Jay Obernolte, presiding as subcommittee chair, opened the hearing by saying the hearing was “critically important” and framed biotechnology as a cross‑cutting strategic field for health, agriculture, manufacturing and national security.

Why it matters: witnesses and lawmakers repeatedly warned that China is rapidly scaling capabilities in biology and that emerging tools — notably artificial intelligence paired with DNA synthesis and automated laboratories — will accelerate discovery while also creating novel dual‑use risks. Several witnesses urged the federal government to fund long‑term basic research, strengthen standards for biological data and manufacturing, and build secure, U.S.‑based production capacity.

Topline evidence and testimony

- National Security concerns and competition: Multiple committee leaders and witnesses cited the NSCEB report and said China’s whole‑of‑nation approach has narrowed the gap in biotechnology. Representative Stevens (ranking member) described biotechnologies as “the next frontier” for jobs and…