H.R. 7801: Cloud Labs to Advance Biotechnology Act of 2026

This bill, known as the Cloud Labs to Advance Biotechnology Act of 2026, aims to establish a network of cloud laboratories that facilitate research in biotechnology. The following are the key components of the bill:

Purpose of the Bill

The bill seeks to:

• Create a coordinated network of cloud laboratories that can operate both independently and in conjunction with federally supported laboratories.
• Enhance research capabilities in biotechnology by enabling remote experimentation and data collection.

Definitions

Key terms defined in the bill include:

• Cloud Laboratory: A physically-equipped laboratory controlled remotely by scientists to conduct continuous experiments.
• Authorized Researcher: Individuals granted access to the data generated by these laboratories.
• Biological Data: Information derived from biological systems for analysis.

Establishment of Cloud Laboratory Network

The bill requires the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to create a pilot program to establish the cloud laboratory network. This includes:

• Consultation with the Secretary of Energy and the Under Secretary of Commerce for effective implementation.
• Identification and cataloging of biotechnology capabilities across all cloud laboratories.
• Facilitation of connections among researchers to share resources and best practices.

Phased Implementation

The implementation consists of three phases:

• Phase I: The network must be established within 360 days of the bill's enactment, with an implementation plan submitted to Congress detailing the current state of laboratories, funding mechanisms, and access protocols.
• Phase II: Competitive grants will be awarded to develop and operate at least two additional cloud laboratories. This phase must be functional within three years of enactment.
• Phase III: This phase includes establishing at least three more laboratories, with grants awarded in a similar competitive manner, but with adjustments based on previous experiences.

Data and Accessibility

Data generated from these cloud laboratories will be:

• Made publicly available to authorized researchers in a secure and accessible format.
• Guided by an advisory board to ensure data collection prioritization aligns with the needs of the biotechnology community.

Advisory Board

An advisory board will be established to guide the implementation of the program, consisting of:

• NSF employees and representatives from federal agencies.
• Academic researchers across various biotechnology fields.
• Industry representatives from biotechnology sectors.

Funding and Reporting

The bill outlines that:

• Financial support will be governed by appropriations, and annual reports must be submitted to Congress detailing the progress and outcomes of the laboratories.
• Full funding and operational readiness for Phase II and Phase III labs will be subject to the availability of funds and competitive processes.

Duration and Sunset Clause

The cloud laboratory network program will be authorized for a duration of 12 years from the date of enactment, with a requirement for ongoing evaluation of its effectiveness.

Relevant Companies

None found