The trajectory of the US Biosecure Act through the House of Representatives encountered unexpected turbulence this week, as opposition emerged from a prominent legislator. Democrat Jim McGovern, a senior congressman representing Massachusetts and the ranking member of the House Rules Committee, has voiced his dissent against the act, as reported by Reuters. Despite his past criticisms of China, McGovern has labeled the law as ‘lousy’ and criticized the hurried voting process.
McGovern’s concerns extend to the perceived lack of transparency in the selection of companies targeted by the bill. The inclusion of WuXi Biologics, a company with a manufacturing facility in Worcester, Massachusetts, has been particularly contentious. WuXi Bio has recently announced plans to expand the facility, increasing the workforce from 400 to 600 employees, a move that could be impacted by the legislation.
The congressman has indicated his intentions to lobby fellow legislators to vote against the Biosecure Act, which is scheduled for consideration by the House of Representatives on Monday, September 9, 2024.- Flcube.com
