HR-5186 : Still Just a Bill

H.R. 5186, titled "To authorize the Secretary of Defense to carry out a program to support the defense biotechnology supply chain, and for other purposes," seeks to enhance the resilience, sustainability, and responsiveness of the United States' defense supply chain through the strategic development and utilization of biotechnology.

Key provisions of this bill include:

• Authorization of a Program: The Secretary of Defense may establish and implement a Biotechnology Supply Chain Resiliency Program. This program aims to develop, scale, and transition biotechnology research from military service laboratories, focusing on biotechnology-based chemicals, materials, fuels, and other products relevant to the Department of Defense's mission.
• Program Activities: Under the program, the Secretary of Defense may:
  • Conduct assessments of existing supply chain vulnerabilities within the Department of Defense.
  • Direct military service laboratories to collaboratively conduct applied research in bioindustrials, biomanufacturing, and related disciplines.
  • Develop, prototype, test, and transition biologically derived materials and products to reduce reliance on foreign and vulnerable supply chains.
  • Upgrade, expand, or construct physical and digital infrastructure, including laboratory facilities, to support bioindustrial research, development, testing, prototyping, and production.
  • Enter into contracts, cooperative agreements, grants, or other transactions with relevant federal and non-federal entities, such as commercial entities, research institutions, and academic organizations.
  • Support education, training, and workforce development initiatives to build and sustain a skilled bioindustrial and biomanufacturing workforce.
• Prioritization and Collaboration: The program prioritizes technologies and capabilities that address critical defense supply chain vulnerabilities and enhance military readiness, including those that reduce logistics, improve material performance, and enhance cost efficiency. It also mandates consultation with representatives from industry, academia, and other federal agencies, and encourages cross-service and public-private partnerships.
• Reporting Requirements: The Secretary of Defense is required to submit an initial plan for funding allocation within 90 days of commencing the program, and annual reports thereafter. These reports will detail research efforts, partnerships, infrastructure enhancements, program performance against established metrics, identified challenges, and recommendations for improved effectiveness.
• Sunset Provision: The authority to carry out the program is set to terminate 10 years after the bill's enactment. However, the President may extend the program if it is deemed necessary to meet national economic or national security needs, with prior notification to Congress.