United States of America: Introduced Bill to Prohibit Contracting with Certain Biotechnology Providers (HR 7085)

On 25 January 2024, a Bill to prohibit contracting with certain biotechnology providers (HR 7085) was introduced to the House of Representatives. The Bill accompanies Senate Bill 3558, which was introduced to the US Senate to prohibit contracts with specific biotechnology providers. The proposed legislation seeks to prevent federal agencies from entering into contracts with entities such as BGI Group, MGI, Complete Genomics, WuXi AppTec, and their subsidiaries and other biotechnology companies. Furthermore, the Bill intends to prevent the government from engaging in contracts with companies using the equipment or services of the mentioned entities. Additionally, it includes provisions restricting the head of an executive agency from using funds to acquire biotechnology equipment or services from companies of concern or from entering, extending, or renewing contracts with such entities.