Overview
Title
To amend title 31, United States Code, to establish the Life Sciences Research Security Board, and for other purposes.
ELI5 AI
S. 4667 is a plan to create a special team called the Life Sciences Research Security Board that checks if certain science projects get money from the government. They will make sure these projects are safe for people and the country, using some of the money usually given to help keep the country safe.
Summary AI
The bill S. 4667, also known as the "Risky Research Review Act," establishes the Life Sciences Research Security Board. This independent agency within the Executive Branch will review and approve federal funding for high-risk life sciences research. The board will oversee and evaluate research proposals to ensure they do not pose significant threats to public health, safety, or national security, and will issue binding decisions on whether such research may receive federal funding. The legislation also outlines the board's membership, functions, and the processes for reviewing research proposals.
Published
Keywords AI
Sources
Bill Statistics
Size
Language
Complexity
AnalysisAI
The bill titled "Risky Research Review Act," aims to establish the Life Sciences Research Security Board. This Board is designed to evaluate and approve federal funding for life sciences research, especially if the research could have high-risk implications for public health or national security. The Board, made up of appointed experts, will ensure that the research does not threaten health and safety and that the potential benefits outweigh any risks. The bill outlines detailed procedures and requirements for Board operations, including the nomination and appointment of Board members, conflict of interest checks, and interactions with Congress and federal agencies.
Summary of Significant Issues
Several notable issues are raised by the provisions of this bill:
Budget Concerns: The allocation of $30 million annually from 2025 to 2034 for the Board's operations is viewed as excessive by some. The bill does not specify oversight or accountability measures to track how these funds will be used, raising concerns about potential waste.
Potential Overreach: The bill grants the Board significant authority, including the power to make binding decisions on federal funding. This could lead to overreach and conflicts with existing agencies responsible for similar decisions.
Complex Definitions: Key terms such as "dual use" and "high-risk life sciences research" are complex and might be interpreted differently, potentially leading to inconsistency in how the law is applied.
Restrictions on Board Membership: The rules for nominating and confirming Board members, which include restrictions on prior affiliations and requirements for security clearances, could narrow the pool of qualified candidates and delay Board operations.
Procedural Delays: The requirement that all high-risk research undergo Board review and approval could create bureaucratic delays, impacting the timelines of scientific research projects and possibly stifling innovation.
Resource Reallocation: Redirecting $30 million annually from the Department of Homeland Security's grants may affect other important initiatives funded by those grants, potentially impacting critical areas within the department.
Impact on the Public
The bill could have broad implications for public safety and national security by ensuring that federal funding for life sciences research is carefully scrutinized. This increased oversight aims to prevent research from inadvertently creating new threats, such as enhanced pathogens. However, the procedural delays and possible bureaucratic bottlenecks might slow down the pace of scientific innovation, which could be problematic in responding rapidly to health crises or advancing biotechnology.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
For researchers and scientific institutions, the bill could impose additional hurdles in obtaining federal funding for high-risk research, potentially discouraging exploration in critical areas of life sciences. While this oversight aims to mitigate potential misuse of research findings, it could also stifle beneficial scientific advancements by adding layers of complexity and delay to the funding process.
For federal agencies, particularly those involved in research and development, there could be a reduction in autonomy when it comes to making funding decisions. Agencies might face increased administrative responsibilities to comply with the Board’s procedures.
Lastly, the Department of Homeland Security may experience a direct negative impact from the financial reallocations mandated by this bill, which could hinder its capability to fund other vital programs if money is diverted to support the new Board.
Financial Assessment
The proposed bill, S. 4667, includes several financial provisions related to the establishment and functioning of the Life Sciences Research Security Board. The financial aspects of the bill center around appropriations and the sourcing of funds essential for the Board's activities.
Annual Funding Allocation
A significant focus of the bill is the authorization of $30,000,000 annually for the fiscal years 2025 through 2034. This funding is dedicated to the operations of the Life Sciences Research Security Board. These funds are meant to support the Board's mandate to review and approve federal funding for high-risk life sciences research, aiming to mitigate potential risks to public health, safety, and national security.
Source and Redistribution of Funds
The bill specifies that the annual allocation of $30,000,000 should be transferred from the funds that the Secretary of Homeland Security would otherwise award as grants. This transfer, however, expressly excludes the Disaster Relief Fund, ensuring that critical disaster response resources remain intact. The transfer could prompt concerns over potential impacts on Department of Homeland Security programs that typically benefit from these grants, especially given the crucial role such programs play in national safety and security networks.
Issues and Financial Impact
Potential Wastefulness: One of the primary issues with the proposed financial allocation is the absence of outlined oversight or accountability mechanisms to monitor how the Life Sciences Research Security Board uses these funds. Without such measures, there is a risk that the funds could be seen as excessive or mismanaged over the proposed ten-year funding period.
Impact on Other Programs: The shift of $30,000,000 annually from the Department of Homeland Security's grant funds, excluding those from the Disaster Relief Fund, might adversely affect other vital programs that rely on these resources. This reallocation poses a challenge, as it expects the Department to adjust its budget allocations and possibly scale back initiatives that would have otherwise received this funding.
Given these financial allocations and their implications, stakeholders and policymakers may need to carefully balance funding of the Life Sciences Research Security Board with potential drawbacks in other areas supported by the grants from which these funds are redirected. Policymakers would benefit from considering additional measures to ensure the accountability and efficacy of the Board in utilizing these substantial financial resources.
Issues
The proposed allocation of $30,000,000 annually from 2025 to 2034 for the Life Sciences Research Security Board could be seen as excessive or wasteful, particularly since there is no mention of oversight or accountability measures to monitor the use of these funds. (Section 7908)
The establishment of the Life Sciences Research Security Board as an independent entity with broad powers, including the authority to issue binding determinations on federal funding, may lead to potential overreach or conflicts with existing agencies' authorities and responsibilities. (Section 7904)
The language defining 'dual use' and 'high-risk life sciences research' is complex and may lead to varying interpretations, potentially affecting consistency in enforcement and regulatory processes. (Section 7901)
The process for nominating and confirming members of the Board, including restrictions on prior affiliations and requirements for security clearances, could limit the pool of qualified candidates and delay the Board's operations. (Section 7902)
The concentration of authority within the Board, including the final determination power in disputes about the classification of research, could raise concerns about checks and balances and transparency in its decision-making processes. (Section 7906)
The procedures surrounding conflict of interest reviews for Board members, particularly concerning participation in high-risk research, might be insufficient to prevent conflicts from arising and could impact the Board's integrity. (Section 7902)
The requirement that all proposed high-risk life sciences research and funding be reviewed and approved by the Board could create procedural delays and bottlenecks, impacting research timelines and potentially stifiling scientific innovation. (Section 7905)
The shift of $30,000,000 annually from funds used by the Department of Homeland Security for grants, excluding the Disaster Relief Fund, could negatively impact other critical areas and programs funded by these grants. (Section 7907)
Sections
Sections are presented as they are annotated in the original legislative text. Any missing headers, numbers, or non-consecutive order is due to the original text.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The first section of this bill states that it can be called the “Risky Research Review Act.”
2. Life Sciences Research Security Board Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Life Sciences Research Security Board is an independent agency that reviews and approves federal funding for life sciences research, particularly if the research involves high-risk activities that could pose threats to public health or national security. The Board, comprised of appointed experts and led by an Executive Director, ensures stringent oversight and determines if proposed research funding should be granted, considering factors like safety, security, and potential benefits.
Money References
- “(i) disciplinary action consisting of removal, reduction in grade, suspension, or debarment from employment with the United States; “(ii) a civil penalty in an amount that is not less than $10,000; “(iii) ineligibility for any annuity under chapter 83 or 84 of title 5; and “(iv) permanent revocation of any applicable security clearance held by the employee.
- “§ 7907. Funding “(a) Authorization of appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to the Board to carry out this chapter $30,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2034.
- — “(1) IN GENERAL.—Subject to paragraph (2) and notwithstanding any other law, in any fiscal year for which amounts are authorized to be appropriated under subsection (a), of the amounts the Secretary of Homeland Security would otherwise award as grants, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall transfer $30,000,000 to the Board.
7901. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section provides definitions for key terms related to life sciences research, including "agency," "board," "high-risk life sciences research," and "potential pandemic pathogen," among others. It outlines specific criteria and examples for each term, helping to clarify their meaning and usage in the context of the chapter.
7902. Establishment and membership Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The document establishes the Life Sciences Research Security Board, outlining its creation, member appointment guidelines, qualifications, and limitations. It also details procedures for filling vacancies, member removal, conflict of interest reviews, security clearance requirements, compensation, and legislative oversight by congressional committees.
7903. Board personnel Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Executive Director and staff of a Board created by the United States Congress. It specifies the process for the President to appoint the Executive Director, including qualifications, security clearance, and terms, while also describing staff recruitment, their necessary qualifications, and conditions related to security clearances and agency support.
7904. Board mission and functions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The mission of the Board is to decide if an agency can give federal funding for life sciences research, and its decision is final. The Board has the power to make rules, review funding applications and sensitive research, and provide updates to Congress about its work.
7905. Agency procedures; referral to Board Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines procedures for Federal agencies related to funding life sciences research, emphasizing high-risk projects. It requires entities to attest whether their research involves select agents or is high-risk, mandates agency certification and Board approval, ensures compliance with established processes, and sets strict enforcement rules for violations, including penalties and disciplinary actions.
Money References
- — (A) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding any provision of title 5, and subject to subparagraph (B), the head of an agency employing an employee who violates any provision of subsection (b)(3) (or, in the case of the head of an agency who violates any provision of subsection (b)(3), the President) shall impose on that employee— (i) disciplinary action consisting of removal, reduction in grade, suspension, or debarment from employment with the United States; (ii) a civil penalty in an amount that is not less than $10,000; (iii) ineligibility for any annuity under chapter 83 or 84 of title 5; and (iv) permanent revocation of any applicable security clearance held by the employee.
7906. Board review Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Board is responsible for reviewing federal funding for life sciences research, particularly when it is deemed high-risk. This involves deciding on safety measures, determining funding approvals, and consulting with scientific expert panels. They must also keep Congress informed about their decisions and operate according to established procedures to ensure transparency and accountability.
7907. Funding Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section authorizes $30 million to be given to the Board for each fiscal year from 2025 to 2034. Additionally, the Secretary of Homeland Security is required to transfer $30 million to the Board from grants, except those from FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund, in any fiscal year when the appropriation is authorized.
Money References
- (a) Authorization of appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to the Board to carry out this chapter $30,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2034.
- — (1) IN GENERAL.—Subject to paragraph (2) and notwithstanding any other law, in any fiscal year for which amounts are authorized to be appropriated under subsection (a), of the amounts the Secretary of Homeland Security would otherwise award as grants, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall transfer $30,000,000 to the Board.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The first section of the bill states that it can be officially called the “Risky Research Review Act.”
2. Life Sciences Research Security Board Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes the Life Sciences Research Security Board as an independent agency within the U.S. government, with the authority to review and approve federal funding for high-risk life sciences research. The Board will ensure research does not pose threats to public health, safety, or national security, and it includes detailed processes for appointment of members, conflict of interest checks, security clearances, and cooperation with Congress.
Money References
- “There is authorized to be appropriated to the Board to carry out this chapter $30,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2034.”
7901. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section defines key terms used in the chapter, including "agency," "appropriate congressional committees," "Board," and various types of life sciences research such as "dual use research of concern" and "gain of function research." It specifies what qualifies as "high-consequence pathogens" and "high-risk life sciences research," and outlines the definitions for "select agent or toxin" as per specific sections of the Code of Federal Regulations.
7902. Establishment and membership Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes the independent "Life Sciences Research Security Board" within the Executive Branch to oversee federal funding for life sciences research. The Board consists of members appointed by the President, including scientists and experts in national security and biosafety, and includes strict guidelines on appointment, conflict of interest review, oversight, compensation, and requirements for security clearances.
7903. Board personnel Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the appointment and responsibilities of the Executive Director and staff for the Board, specifying that the President will appoint a qualified individual as Executive Director with Senate approval for a 4-year term, who will serve as a key liaison and manage Board activities. It also details the qualifications for Board staff, their security clearance processes, and terms of compensation, while ensuring that they remain independent from influencing agency-funded life sciences research.
7904. Board mission and functions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the Board's mission to independently decide if an agency can give federal funding for risky life sciences research, along with its powers to set rules, review processes, request information, and make final decisions. It also includes requirements for quick responses to Congress, updates on select agents or toxins, and regular briefings to congressional committees.
7905. Agency procedures; referral to Board Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section outlines the procedures federal agencies must follow before awarding funding for life sciences research, particularly if the research is considered high-risk. Entities seeking funding must disclose risks and use of select agents, while agencies are required to work with a Board to review these disclosures, ensure compliance, and maintain records; penalties apply for false attestations or violations.
7906. Board review Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the Board's responsibilities and procedures for reviewing high-risk life sciences research funded by federal agencies. It details considerations such as public health and safety threats, the benefits and risks of the research, requirements for biosafety and security measures, and processes for expedited and ongoing reviews, as well as establishing expert panels to assist with assessments.
7907. GAO Audits Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires that the Comptroller General of the United States regularly conduct audits of the Board to ensure accountability and oversight.
7908. Funding Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill authorizes a budget of $30 million each year, from 2025 to 2034, for the Board to carry out its responsibilities as outlined in the chapter.
Money References
- There is authorized to be appropriated to the Board to carry out this chapter $30,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2034.