U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith representing Virginia's 9th Congressional District | Official U.S. House headshot
U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith representing Virginia's 9th Congressional District | Official U.S. House headshot
U.S. Senator Rand Paul and Congressman Morgan Griffith have introduced legislative measures aimed at increasing oversight and transparency within federal health agencies. The proposed Risky Research Review Act seeks to establish an independent review board to evaluate high-risk life sciences research proposals that seek federal funding. This board will oversee, monitor, and approve or decline these proposals, with reports made available to Congress and the public.
"We must demand accountability for the grave oversights that were revealed by the COVID-19 pandemic," said Dr. Paul. "The safety of our nation and the trust in its institutions depend on it."
Representative Griffith highlighted concerns regarding gain-of-function research: "As someone who has extensively investigated COVID-19 origins and biosafety concerns in foreign labs, it is clear to me that greater oversight measures are needed." He noted previous inadequacies by the National Institutes of Health in reviewing such research applications.
Additionally, the Royalty Transparency Act was introduced to require financial disclosure from executive branch officials regarding royalty payments they receive. This information would be publicly accessible.
"One way to restore trust is to make sure that public policy isn’t influenced by personal gain," said Dr. Paul.
Representative Griffith added, "For too long, federal bureaucrats concealed the royalties they received... The Royalty Transparency Act will foster greater government transparency."
In his capacity as chair of various subcommittees during the 118th Congress, Rep. Griffith conducted hearings on biosafety and risky research topics. His efforts included examining figures like EcoHealth Alliance President Dr. Peter Daszak concerning grant inconsistencies linked to coronavirus research.
President Trump is reportedly considering an Executive Order related to gain-of-function research funding policies, a move supported by Rep. Griffith.
Both legislative texts can be found online for further details.
Alerts Sign-up