U.S. Senators Propose Rules for Synthetic Gene Sales

Bipartisan bill aims to screen customers and orders to prevent bioweapons misuse

Feb. 4, 2026 at 8:23pm by Ben Kaplan

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Two U.S. senators have introduced a bill that would create new rules around the sale of synthetic gene sequences, requiring labs to screen customers and orders to ensure dangerous genetic material does not fall into the wrong hands and potentially be used to create bioweapons.

Why it matters

The rapid advancement of biotechnology, including the use of AI to design new genetic sequences, has raised concerns about the potential misuse of these powerful tools. This bipartisan legislation seeks to address biosecurity gaps and keep pace with the fast-moving biotech industry.

The details

The bill, introduced by Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), would direct the U.S. Department of Commerce to require gene synthesis labs to screen their customers and orders. It would also task the Commerce Department, with help from other federal agencies, to compile a list of potentially dangerous genetic sequences.

  • The bill was introduced this week by Senators Cotton and Klobuchar.
  • Last year, a House committee raised concerns about a Chinese biotech company's work with U.S. firms.
  • Also last year, a bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced a bill to require export licenses for sending gene sequence data to China.

The players

Sen. Tom Cotton

A Republican senator from Arkansas and the No. 3 Republican in the Senate.

Sen. Amy Klobuchar

A Democratic senator from Minnesota and the No. 3 Democrat in the Senate.

U.S. Department of Commerce

The federal agency that would be tasked with compiling a list of potentially dangerous genetic sequences and requiring gene synthesis labs to screen customers and orders under the proposed legislation.

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What they’re saying

“While access to genetic material allows scientists to study diseases, develop lifesaving medicine, and improve crops, without safety standards it could be misused, including to create bioweapons.”

— Sen. Amy Klobuchar

“American innovations in biotechnology are too important to fall into the hands of bad actors or be hamstrung by outdated federal policies.”

— Sen. Tom Cotton

What’s next

The proposed legislation would need to go through the committee process and be voted on by both the Senate and House of Representatives before potentially being signed into law by the President.

The takeaway

This bipartisan effort to create new rules for synthetic gene sales highlights the growing concerns around the potential misuse of powerful biotechnology tools, and the need to balance scientific innovation with robust biosecurity measures.