Michigan House Bill HB5261

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/26/23
• Refer: 10/26/23

Caption

Health: research; funding for the prohibition of pathogen enhancement engineering or research; provide for. Creates appropriation act. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5263'23

Impact

HB 5261 will notably affect the operations of the Department of Health and Human Services by allocating resources to enforce laws related to pathogen enhancement engineering. The bill's appropriation enables the health department to issue financial rewards to whistleblowers, thereby fostering an environment where transparent reporting of suspicious activities may improve public safety. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that the appropriated funds cannot be distributed unless linked to the enactment of associated legislation, namely House Bill 5263.

Summary

House Bill 5261 focuses on appropriating $250,000 to support various state departments and agencies in Michigan for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024. Specifically, it aims to fund a whistleblower reward program concerning illicit pathogen enhancement engineering or research, thereby creating a financial incentive for individuals to report such activities. The provisions of this bill signify the state's commitment to public health and safety, ensuring that potentially harmful research practices are monitored and reported.

Contention

A point of contention surrounding HB 5261 revolves around its tie to another bill, HB 5263, as the release of funds is contingent upon its enactment. This interdependence raises concerns about the appropriations being held up if concurrent legislation fails to pass, potentially stalling efforts aimed at overseeing pathogen enhancement practices. Additionally, there could be debates regarding the effectiveness of financial rewards as a means to ensure compliance and encourage reporting in scenarios involving sensitive public health issues.