U.S. Senate Declares May 13-20 National Biotechnology Week
“There have been phenomenal advancements in science over the last few years that are allowing us to improve health care, increase crop yields, reduce the use of pesticides and replace costly industrial processes involving harsh chemicals with cheaper, safer biological processes,” said Sen. Tim Hutchinson (R-AR), the resolution’s sponsor. “These advancements have occurred due to the hard work and diligence of scientists and researchers in the United States, and all around the world, who have spent their lives promoting and perfecting the practice of biotechnology.”
Carl B. Feldbaum, president of the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), thanked Sen. Hutchinson for his efforts, which were key to winning the unanimous consent of the Senate.
“This resolution is but one example of the support Sen. Hutchinson has given the industry over the years, and we plan to honor him next week with a BIO Legislator of the Year Award,” said Feldbaum. The award ceremony, slated for Wednesday, May 16, is part of BIO’s Legislative Day event, which will bring more than 150 biotech executives to the U.S. Capitol for a blitz of 200 meetings with representatives and senators.
BIO represents more than 950 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations in all 50 U.S. states and 33 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of health care, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products.
107th CONGRESS
1st Session
S. RES. 75
Designating the week beginning May 13, 2001, as `National Biotechnology Week'.
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
RESOLUTION
Designating the week beginning May 13, 2001, as `National Biotechnology Week'.
Whereas biotechnology is increasingly important to the research and development of medical, agricultural, industrial, and environmental products;
Whereas public awareness, education, and understanding of biotechnology is essential for the responsible application and regulation of this new technology;
Whereas biotechnology has been responsible for breakthroughs and achievements that have benefited people for centuries and contributed to increasing the quality of human health care through the development of vaccines, antibiotics, and other drugs;
Whereas biotechnology is central to research for cures to diseases such as cancer, diabetes, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, heart and lung disease, Alzheimer's disease, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), and innumerable other medical ailments;
Whereas biotechnology contributes to crop yields and farm productivity, and enhances the quality, value, and suitability of crops for food and other uses that are critical to the agriculture of the United States;
Whereas biotechnology promises environmental benefits including protection of water quality, conservation of topsoil, improvement of waste management techniques, reduction of chemical pesticide usage, production of renewable energy and biobase products, and cleaner manufacturing processes;
Whereas biotechnology contributes to the success of the United States as the global leader in research and development, and international commerce;
Whereas biotechnology will be an important catalyst for creating more high-skilled jobs throughout the 21st century and will lead the way in reinvigorating rural economies; and
Whereas it is important for all Americans to understand the beneficial role biotechnology plays in improving quality of life and protecting the environment:
Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the Senate--(1) designates the week beginning May 13, 2001, as `National Biotechnology Week'; and(2) requests that the President issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States to observe the week with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
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