H.R. 5770: National Security Biotechnology Workforce Training Act

This bill, titled the National Security Biotechnology Workforce Training Act, aims to establish a specialized training program for certain personnel within the Department of Defense (DoD). The primary focus of the training will be on biotechnology and other emerging technologies relevant to national security. Here is a breakdown of the key components of the bill:

Training Program Establishment

Within one year of the bill's enactment, the Secretary of Defense is required to:

• Create and implement a training program for:
• Members of the Armed Forces.
• Civilian employees of the Department of Defense.
• Contractors whose work involves:
• Creating or deploying new biotechnologies.
• Responding to biological threats.
• Research, development, engineering, and testing related to biotechnology.

Consultation for Development

To create the training program, the Secretary of Defense will consult with:

• Leadership and training managers within the Department.
• Identify personnel needing training based on departmental priorities and the relevance of their roles.

Content of the Training Program

The training will cover a variety of topics, including:

• The fundamental science of biotechnology and related technologies, such as artificial intelligence.
• Technological features of biotechnology systems.
• Applications in areas like defense, health, and the environment.
• Integration of advanced technologies like quantum computing to enhance biotechnology.
• Funding and deployment mechanisms used by the Federal Government for biotechnology.
• Ethical, social, and legal considerations associated with biotechnology.
• Risk mitigation strategies to ensure reliability and safety.
• Future trends in biotechnology and its intersections with other technologies.

Requirements and Participation

• The training is mandatory annually for all personnel covered under the bill.
• Interactive learning opportunities will be included, utilizing experts from various sectors.
• The program will be available through military education institutions, like the National Defense University.
• Annual updates will be made to the training content to reflect advancements in the field.
• Continuing education requirements will also be included to keep personnel updated on the latest developments.

Performance Measurement and Reporting

• The Secretary of Defense will implement mechanisms to measure participation and gather feedback for program improvement.
• A report detailing the training program's establishment and implementation plan must be submitted to the relevant Congressional committees within six months of the bill's enactment.

Sunset Clause

The training programs established under the bill will terminate five years after their initiation.

Definitions

Key terms are defined within the bill, such as:

• Artificial Intelligence: Defined as per existing legislation related to AI initiatives.
• Covered Armed Force: Refers to the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force.

Relevant Companies

• AMGN - Amgen Inc.: As a biotechnology company involved in the development of therapies, this legislation could influence their contract work with the government and need for specialized training regarding military applications of biotechnology.
• REGN - Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Their focus on biotechnology for healthcare could lead to increased collaboration with the DoD for training personnel in applicable biotechnological innovations.