Senator Blanche Lincoln Named BIO Legislator of the Year

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 20, 2005) -- The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) has named Senator Blanche Lambert Lincoln (D, AR) as a "Legislator of the Year" for 2004-2005.

"BIO commends Senator Lincoln for her role in shaping favorable Senate consideration of key agricultural and health care issues," BIO President Jim Greenwood stated.  "As a member of the Biotech Caucus, the Senator has steadfastly demonstrated her support for biotechnology.  She has been active in promoting farm exports and in supporting renewable biofuel energy."

Senator Lincoln received the award in her office this morning during a meeting with biotechnology industry representatives.

More than 200 industry representatives from 33 states will participate in approximately 300 meetings with key members of the House and Senate today as part of the BIO Legislative Day event.  Participants will discuss the critical issues facing the biotechnology industry, including drug safety, Medicare reimbursement, tax and capital formation, and reducing trade barriers for American farmers.

BIO represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and 31 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products.

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