Scott’s push to decouple China-U.S. cell therapy R&D could cost both sides

Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) is proposing a major expansion of biosecurity-driven decoupling of the U.S. and Chinese life sciences sectors. He has proposed a framework that would extend national security screening into FDA designations, clinical trial oversight and cross-border data flows.

The proposals go much farther than the Biosecure Act. While Biosecure focuses on supply chain dependencies and data security involving contract manufacturers and research organizations, Scott is calling for restrictions on clinical research and product development. If adopted, his ideas could reduce U.S. patients’ access to innovative therapies and restrict Chinese companies’ access to the U.S. market. ...