SCALE Biology Act
- Bill Number
- H.R. 8981
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Science, Technology, Communications
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-05-21: Referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
- Last Updated
- 2026-06-23T18:31:36Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose This legislation establishes a dedicated program at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to conduct measurement research supporting engineering biology, biomanufacturing, and biometrology. It aims to boost U.S. innovation and competitiveness in these fields while promoting accurate data, safe technology development, and national security.
Key Provisions
- Creates the Biometrology Laboratory Program at NIST with the following goals:
- Advance basic measurement science for understanding biological systems, biomolecular tools, data standards, life-cycle assessments, and biosafety measures.
- Develop technical standards and infrastructure for interoperability in biomanufacturing and related technologies.
- Convene stakeholders to create roadmaps for measuring cellular components.
- Provide access to advanced facilities for research and testing.
- Form partnerships with other agencies, universities, and industry.
- Support training and update common definitions for the bioeconomy.
- Requires an implementation plan, a report to Congress within three years, and coordination with existing federal initiatives like the Manufacturing USA Program.
- Authorizes funding of $55 million in fiscal year 2026, rising to $85 million by fiscal year 2030.
- Adds a new duty for NIST to support voluntary standards for engineering biology and related areas.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
- Amends the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act to add a new paragraph on measurement research for biological technologies and inserts a new Section 36 creating the Biometrology Laboratory Program.
- Repeals Section 10221 of the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act.
- Updates and expands definitions in that Act for terms such as bioeconomy, biomanufacturing, biorisk, biosafety, and engineering biology.
Potential Impacts
- On government agencies: Expands NIST's role in biological measurement science and requires coordination with other federal entities, potentially strengthening interagency efforts on biotechnology.
- On citizens and industry: Supports safer, more reliable development of biological products, which could benefit sectors like healthcare and manufacturing while addressing biosecurity concerns.
- On international relations: Promotes U.S. leadership in voluntary consensus standards, which may influence global cooperation and trade in biotechnology.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- NIST and the Department of Commerce (primary implementers).
- Industry partners in biotechnology and biomanufacturing.
- Institutions of higher education and nonprofit organizations.
- Other federal agencies involved in research and development.
- The broader scientific and manufacturing communities.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- The bill focuses on voluntary standards and research rather than mandatory regulations, aligning with existing NIST authority under the Commerce Clause.
- It includes security controls for sensitive information, reflecting concerns about biosecurity without creating new regulatory frameworks.
- No direct constitutional issues are raised, as the program builds on established federal research powers.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. McClain Delaney, April [D-MD-6]
Cosponsors (4)
Rep. Obernolte, Jay [R-CA-23], Rep. Lofgren, Zoe [D-CA-18], Del. Moylan, James C. [R-GU-At Large], Rep. Vindman, Eugene Simon [D-VA-7]
Recent Actions
- 2026-05-21: Referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
- 2026-05-21: Introduced in House
- 2026-05-21: Introduced in House
Bill Versions
- Standards and Calibration for American Leadership in Engineering Biology Act — issued 2026-05-21 — PDF (14 pages)