BIOSECURE Act Clears House Hurdle, Heads to Senate for Vote on Restricting Chinese Biotech Ties

House Passage:
The BIOSECURE Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives with a 306-81 vote, indicating strong bipartisan support.

Senate Vote:
The bill now moves to the Senate, where similar bipartisan support is expected, having already passed a similar bill in the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs in March 2024.

Targeted Companies: The legislation specifically targets five Chinese biotech companies:
WuXi AppTec, WuXi Biologics, Beijing Genomics Institute, MGI, and Complete Genomics, citing national security concerns.

Restrictions:
The bill prohibits U.S. biopharma companies from working with these Chinese contractors, potentially impacting the drug supply chain and clinical trials.

Grandfather Clause:
Existing contracts with these companies are allowed until January 1, 2032, providing a transition period for affected companies.

Industry Impact:
Analysts warn of potential disruptions to the U.S. drug supply chain and clinical trials, highlighting the need for domestic manufacturing capabilities.

Support and Opposition:
The bill is supported by the Biotechnology Innovation Organization but opposed by the targeted Chinese companies, which deny allegations of ties to the Chinese government and military.