New Jersey Assembly Bill AR183

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/23/23
• Refer: 3/23/23

Caption

Urges U.S. President and Congress to cease funding gain-of-function research.

Impact

The resolution points to significant concerns surrounding gain-of-function research, especially following the emergence of COVID-19. It references theories that the virus could have originated from a laboratory involved in such research. The legislature believes that continuing to fund this type of research poses a severe risk to public health, as it can result in the creation of more virulent strains of pathogens capable of evading both natural immunity and vaccination efforts. Thus, this bill serves as a call to reconsider the funding practices related to potentially hazardous research areas.

Summary

Assembly Resolution No. 183 urges the U.S. President and Congress to halt funding for gain-of-function research. This type of research involves manipulating the genetic structures of organisms, often to increase their transmissibility or pathogenic properties. The resolution emphasizes the potential dangers associated with such research, highlighting that it could lead to the accidental release of dangerous pathogens into the population or even be weaponized, as exemplified by past studies involving the H5N1 virus.

Contention

The primary contention around the resolution lies in the debate over the benefits and risks of gain-of-function research. Proponents argue that it plays a crucial role in understanding and preventing emerging infectious diseases by enabling scientists to explore how pathogens might mutate. Critics, however, emphasize that the risks of creating more dangerous organisms and the potential for unintended consequences outweigh the benefits. This resolution reflects a cautious stance aimed at protecting public health from unintended outcomes of scientific inquiry.