Hoosier State Today

Recent developments have highlighted the growing importance of biotechnology on the global stage. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) expressed concerns over international advancements in this field, particularly pointing to Russia's efforts to rebuild a biological weapons research center and China's significant involvement in critical biotech supply chains.

Senator Young, who chairs the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB), emphasized that "emerging biotechnologies — from novel therapeutics to agricultural advances to defense applications — have the capability to reshape our economy and national security." He warned that if the United States does not take a leadership role, adversaries could leverage biotechnology against global priorities.

The NSCEB is preparing a report for Congress detailing necessary actions to maintain America's leadership in biotechnology. Currently, U.S. biotech companies face vulnerabilities due to reliance on Chinese products and services. The BIOSECURE Act aims to address these issues by enhancing domestic resilience.

Young criticized China's approach, stating, "They’re playing to win, and often playing dirty by stealing the intellectual property of innovative American companies and labs." He advocated for more U.S.-based production of biotech innovations as a means of strengthening supply chains and creating jobs.

The senator also called for reducing regulatory barriers that hinder biotech innovation. He stressed collaboration with allies to set global standards and prevent misuse of biological data. "Our advantage is in our private sector," he noted, urging government support for industry growth.

Looking ahead, Young envisioned advancements such as improved biomanufacturing capabilities for defense applications. However, he cautioned that current federal support structures are inadequate for competing globally in biotechnology.

He concluded by urging policymakers to enact supportive policies and enhance military use of novel biotechnologies. These themes will be central in the NSCEB’s Final Report due in 2025.