# The BIOSECURE Act: What You Need to Know

The BIOSECURE Act is a law designed to prevent the U.S. government from doing business with certain Chinese biotechnology companies that the government believes pose national security risks. Specifically, it targets companies like BGI (Beijing Genomics Institute), MGI, Complete Genomics, and WuXi Apptec—firms that the U.S. government says have connections to China's military and intelligence agencies. The core concern is that these companies collect genetic data from people around the world, including Americans, and that Chinese law could force them to hand over this sensitive information to the Chinese government.

Here's what the law actually does: Federal agencies cannot buy biotechnology equipment or services from these companies of concern, and they cannot hire contractors who use this equipment or services to do government work. The ban also applies to any government loans or grants that would go toward purchasing from these companies. For example, if a research hospital receives federal funding, it couldn't use that money to buy genetic sequencing machines from BGI. Similarly, if a private company wants to win a government contract, it can't rely on equipment from these banned companies to fulfill that contract. The law gives agencies about two to six months to implement these rules, depending on which companies are involved.

There are some narrow exceptions built into the law. Intelligence agencies can still work with these companies if it's part of authorized spy operations. Additionally, Americans working overseas for the government—like military personnel or diplomats—can still access healthcare services that might use this equipment. The law also allows government officials to grant temporary waivers in specific cases if they believe it's necessary for national security, though they have to notify Congress when they do this.

The practical impact for most Americans will likely be limited and indirect. If you work for a government agency or contractor, your employer may need to find alternative suppliers for certain biotechnology services. Researchers at universities or hospitals that receive federal funding might face restrictions on which equipment they can purchase. However, the law doesn't directly restrict what private companies or individuals can do—it only affects government spending and contracts. The broader goal is to prevent American taxpayer dollars from supporting companies the government views as security threats and to reduce the risk that genetic data collected in the U.S. could end up in Chinese government hands.

BIOSECURE Act

Gallagher, Mike

BIOSECURE Act This bill prohibits federal contracting with certain biotechnology providers connected to foreign adversaries, with exceptions. Specifically, the bill prohibits executive agencies from (1) procuring or obtaining any biotechnology equipment or service produced or provided by a biotechnology company of concern, or (2) entering into a contract or extending or renewing a contract that uses such equipment or service or that will require the direct use of such equipment or services. Those agencies may not obligate or expend loan or grant funds for such purposes. A biotechnology company of concern includes BGI, MGI, Complete Genomics, WuXi AppTec, and any subsidiary, parent affiliate, or successor of such entities, and any entity that <ul> <li>is subject to the jurisdiction, direction, control, or operates on behalf of the government of a foreign adversary;</li> <li>is involved in the manufacturing, distribution, provision, or procurement of a biotechnology equipment or service; and</li> <li>poses a risk to U.S. national security based on specified activities.</li> </ul> Executive agencies may waive the prohibitions on a case-by-case basis under specified circumstances. The Office of Management and Budget must develop and periodically update a list of the entities that constitute biotechnology companies of concern.