To authorize the Secretary of Defense to carry out a program to support the defense biotechnology supply chain, and for other purposes.
Impact
The bill, if enacted, would lead to significant changes in how the Department of Defense approaches biotechnology and manufacturing processes. By encouraging the development and transition of advanced biotechnologies, the legislation aims to bolster military readiness and address vulnerabilities in the existing supply chain. The focus on enhancing local capabilities and reducing dependency on foreign inputs is expected to foster a more sustainable and responsive defense environment. Furthermore, it supports education and workforce development initiatives, which could help in building a skilled labor force in the bioindustrial sector.
Summary
House Bill 5186 seeks to authorize the Secretary of Defense to implement a program aimed at supporting and enhancing the defense biotechnology supply chain. This legislation emphasizes the importance of biotechnology in defense operations, recognizing its role in ensuring the reliability and resilience of supply chains that are critical to military operations. The bill outlines various activities, including assessments of supply chain vulnerabilities, collaborative research initiatives, and the development of biologically derived materials to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
Contention
Potential points of contention around HB 5186 may arise regarding the balance between national security and the implications of funding biotechnology initiatives. Stakeholders may debate the extent of federal involvement in biotechnology development, particularly concerning private sector partnerships and the potential to stifle innovation through heavy regulation. Additionally, the 10-year timeframe set for the program's authority could lead to discussions on the need for ongoing oversight and assessment to ensure that the developed technologies align with evolving defense strategies and economic realities.
To support the national defense and economic security of the United States by supporting vessels, ports, and shipyards of the United States and the U.S. maritime workforce.
To authorize the Secretary of the Navy to convey or lease certain parcels of land at Defense Fuel Support Point San Pedro, Los Angeles, California, and for other purposes.
To prohibit the Secretary of Defense from entering into information technology contracts with entities that provide certain services to China, and for other purposes.
To require the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of State to monitor efforts by the People's Republic of China to build or buy strategic foreign ports, and for other purposes.
A bill to require the Secretary of the Navy, the Secretary of the Air Force, and the Secretary of the Army to carry out a pilot program on producing parts through reverse engineering, and for other purposes.
To require the Secretary of Defense to enhance the readiness of the Department of Defense to challenges relating to climate change and to improve the energy and resource efficiency of the Department, and for other purposes.
To direct the Secretary of Education to carry out a grant program to support the placement of students and licensed professional social workers in public libraries, and for other purposes.