US HB5186

Secretary of Defense may establish a Biotechnology Supply Chain Resiliency Program to develop, scale, and transition biotechnology research from military service laboratories, including bio-based chemicals, materials, and fuels relevant to DoD missions

Program activities include assessing DoD supply chain vulnerabilities, conducting applied research in bioindustrials and biomanufacturing, prototyping biologically derived materials to reduce foreign supply chain reliance, and upgrading laboratory infrastructure

Secretary must prioritize technologies addressing critical defense supply chain vulnerabilities, such as field-enabled manufacturing of bio-cement, protective coatings, biologically derived composites, and capabilities that improve cost efficiency

Within 90 days of commencing the Program, Secretary must submit a funding allocation plan to Armed Services Committees; annual reports required detailing research efforts, partnerships, infrastructure enhancements, and program performance

Program authority terminates 10 years after enactment, with extension possible if the President determines continuation necessary for national economic or security needs and notifies Congress