Michigan Senate Bill SB0622

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: SB 0620'23

Impact

If enacted, SB0622 will provide resources to the Department of Health and Human Services to reward individuals who report illegal pathogen enhancement activities, as outlined in section 2670 of the public health code. The acknowledgments and assurances incorporated in the bill stipulate that funds unspent at the conclusion of the fiscal year will not lapse, allowing them to be utilized for continuing projects until their completion, which provides a degree of financial stability for public health efforts.

Summary

Senate Bill No. 622 (SB0622) proposes appropriations for various state departments and agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024. A significant aspect of this bill is the allocation of $250,000 specifically aimed at funding a whistleblower reward program related to the illegal conduct of pathogen enhancement engineering or research. This initiative seeks to encourage individuals to report illicit activities related to public health safety, thereby reinforcing the state's commitment to maintaining health standards and preventing potential public health crises.

Contention

While the bill aims to bolster public health through financial incentives for whistleblowers, there may be discussions regarding the ethical implications of incentivizing reports of potentially sensitive or speculative research activities. Critics may raise concerns about the potential for misuse of the rewards system or the chilling effect it may have on legitimate scientific inquiry. Further, the effectiveness of this funding in genuinely uncovering unlawful practices versus the potential for fostering distrust between researchers and regulatory bodies is a notable point of contention.