Federal researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) currently have limited formal guidance for screening synthetic DNA and RNA (nucleic acid) orders to catch potentially dangerous genetic sequences before they are manufactured. This bill directs NIST to develop technical standards and best practices for that screening, including how labs and biotech companies verify orders and manage watchlists of concerning sequences. It also requires NIST to convene a consortium of industry, universities, and nonprofit groups to build consensus guidelines and report back to Congress within 18 months of the group's first meeting. The bill authorizes $5 million per year from 2026 through 2030 to fund this work, aimed at reducing the risk that biotechnology tools could be misused to create harmful biological agents.
Transparency & Accountability
- Reporting requirement — NIST must report to Congress on consortium findings within 18 months of its first meeting
Congressional Summary
Nucleic Acid Standards for Biosecurity ActThis bill explicitly requires the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to support the development of best practices and technical standards for nucleic acid synthesis.Nucleic acids, including deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA) carry genetic information within cells. Nucleic acid synthesis is the process of designing and creating custom nucleic acids; it is used in the development of medications and agricultural products. However, this technology also poses a risk of misuse (e.g., the intentional or unintentional creation of dangerous biological agents).The bill requires NIST to carry out measurement research to support the development and improvement of biosecurity best practices and technical standards related to nucleic acid synthesis. This effort must address specified topics including nucleic acid synthesis screening, operational security, and conformity assessment. (A 2023 executive order titled Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence directed NIST to develop and refine similar specifications and best practices for use by synthetic nucleic acid providers. NIST's work on this topic is ongoing.)In carrying out this effort, NIST must convene stakeholders to develop and periodically update consensus priorities and best practices for synthetic nucleic acid screening mechanisms. Within a specified period, NIST must submit a summary of the stakeholder group’s findings to Congress.NIST must also take steps to advance risk management best practices and technical standards for engineering biology and biomanufacturing, including with respect to risks associated with the use of artificial intelligence.
Legislative Subjects
Details
- Congress
- 119th
- Chamber
- House
- Status
- summarized
- Action
- Introduced in House
- Action Date
- 2025-04-28
- Date Added
- 2026-07-16
- Source
- Congress.gov →
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