BIO Statement Regarding Formation of Congressional
Biotechnology Caucus

(Carl B. Feldbaum, president of the Biotechnology Industry Organization [BIO] issued the following statement today regarding the formation of the Congressional Biotechnology Caucus.)

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 20, 2000) --"We are delighted that members of Congress have joined together to educate their colleagues on the benefits and importance of biotechnology.

"Certainly all Americans can enjoy the benefits from the huge advances being made by biotechnology: these include improving human health through the development of new drugs, vaccines and diagnostic tools; improving agriculture by helping farmers grow healthier, stronger crops and feed a growing world population; and improving industrial production by making manufacturing processes cleaner and more efficient.

"To date, more than 270 million people have benefited from drugs and vaccines created through biotechnologyÑthatÕs more than a quarter of a billion. We fully expect that this is only the beginning of extending and improving our quality of life."

BIO represents more than 900 companies, academic institutions and biotech centers in 50 states and 26 nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental products.