HD31 - A Virginia Biotechnology Research Act

  • Published: 1994
  • Author: Secretary of Commerce and Trade
  • Enabling Authority: House Joint Resolution 516 (Regular Session, 1993)

Executive Summary:
In response to 1993 HJR No. 516 the Secretary of Commerce and Trade initiated a study on the value of enacting a Virginia biotechnology regulatory framework. A committee made up of scientists, business persons, regulators, economic development and university officials, and environmental specialists appointed by the Secretary completed its work and submitted the following report and model legislation on September 1.

The study identified the existing federal, state and local framework for oversight and regulation of biotechnology research, development and commercialization in Virginia. It examined regulatory actions taken by other states and sought options that would be both protective of human health and the environment, and cost-effective and timely. The Committee concluded that an appropriate balance between the protection afforded by the federal rules and the desire of concerned localities and citizens to be involved in the regulatory process was an important objective. This can best be served by a state regulatory approach that relies on the federal Coordinated Framework while also providing notification to the public and creating a participatory role for localities and citizens.

Specifically, the Committee agreed that codification of a responsible and non-burdensome regulatory framework for biotechnology research was a necessary foundation for successful development and recruitment of the industry in Virginia, and made three recommendations:

• Accept the federal Coordinated Framework for Regulation of Biotechnology as the state's substantive policy of oversight and regulation.

• Conduct an outreach/education effort to build understanding and support before General Assembly consideration of the legislation.

• Codify the Commonwealth's position as a responsible partner with the federal government to assure regulatory uniformity, improve notification and communication, give proof of Virginia's interest in developing the industry, and assure protection of public health and the environment.

The Commonwealth faces an opportunity to craft a leadership role in biotechnology from both a business attraction and an environmental protection standpoint. Already, some 40 or more companies, university research centers, agricultural producers, and other organizations in Virginia are engaged in biotechnology research and development activities, with commercialization on the horizon.