RI H7337

Establishes a biotechnology regulatory sandbox program within the Department of Business Regulation (DBR) allowing companies and research institutions to test innovative biotechnology products or services without obtaining standard state licenses or authorizations

Sandbox participation period lasts up to 24 months, with possible 12-month extensions for participants seeking permanent licensure

Exemptions cannot waive human genetic modification prohibitions (germline editing), environmental protection laws, or ethical standards for human/animal research

Applicants must demonstrate financial/technical expertise, liability coverage, and consumer protection plans; those convicted of crimes involving theft, fraud, or dishonesty are barred from participation

Participants must submit quarterly progress reports and make mandatory consumer disclosures stating the product is experimental, not state-endorsed, and may expose customers to financial risk; DBR must report to the General Assembly by January 1, 2028