US Congress--Cheerleaders for Biotech

U.S. Senate Declares May 13-20 National Biotechnology Week

WASHINGTON, May 11 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Senate passed a
resolution declaring May 13 - 20 National Biotechnology Week, thereby
recognizing biotechnology's importance to research and development of
medical, agricultural, industrial and environmental products.

"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.