H.R. 5191: To direct the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering to issue guidance for private entities on demonstrating how biobased products meet Department of Defense requirements, and for other purposes.

This bill directs the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering to create guidelines for private companies to demonstrate how their biobased products meet the requirements set by the Department of Defense (DoD). Here’s a breakdown of the key components of the bill:

Guidance Development

Within one year of the bill's enactment, the Under Secretary must:

• Work with the military department secretaries to develop publicly available guidance.
• Provide instructions to private entities on how to effectively show that their biobased products fulfill DoD requirements.

Analysis of DoD Processes

The bill requires the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct an analysis of the DoD's process for developing internal requirements. The analysis will focus on whether these processes inadvertently exclude biobased products. The process will involve the following steps:

• A thorough review of DoD’s existing compliance and procurement procedures.
• Identification of any barriers that may prevent the inclusion of biobased products.

Reporting Findings

One year after the enactment of the bill, the Comptroller General must submit a report to the congressional defense committees. This report will include:

• Findings from the analysis regarding the potential exclusion of biobased products.
• Recommendations aimed at improving the inclusion of biobased products in the DoD’s processes if exclusion is found.

Definition of Biobased Products

The bill defines “biobased product” as a product made through the application of living organisms, which may alter living or non-living materials. This broad definition indicates a wide range of products that could qualify as biobased.

Objective of the Bill

The primary objective of the bill is to encourage the use of biobased products in military operations by establishing clear guidelines and addressing any hurdles in the DoD’s current practices. This could lead to an increase in the procurement of environmentally friendly products in defense applications.

Relevant Companies

• DOW - As a major chemical manufacturer that produces biobased materials, DOW could see increased demand for its products if the DoD opens up procurement to biobased options.
• AVY - Avery Dennison produces several products made from biobased materials, which may benefit from greater visibility and procurement opportunities in defense contracts.
• GE - General Electric works on various defense technologies and materials that could include biobased components, potentially influencing its procurement strategies.