Last week, Life Science Washington in partnership with Arzeda hosted a field visit by the NSCEB Commission. The National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology was established by Congress to conduct a thorough review of how advancements in emerging biotechnology and related technologies will shape current and future activities of the Department of Defense. Much of their work has focused on what the US needs to do to compete with China.
Life Science Washington President & CEO Marc Cummings led a panel of biotech leaders to discuss what the Commission’s report means for the Washington life science ecosystem. It was both a chance to highlight the unique attributes of region to Federal policy makers, while also providing input on the investments and policy reforms necessary to help the U.S. maintain its global leadership in biotech.
The report’s findings warn that falling behind means Americans could lose access to the medicines they need. The Commission’s action plan calls for at least $15B in federal investment over five years to mobilize private capital, with an approach that would:
- Foster competition without picking winners
- Counter competitors’ economic tactics
- Streamline regulations for biotech innovation
- Position the U.S. to continue leading in biotech
The Commission’s report “Charting the Future of Biotechnology” can be found here.