Biotechnology for All High School Students Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. McBride, Sarah [D-DE-At Large]
- Committees
- Science, Space, and Technology Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 14, 2026
Bottom line
The bill aims to bolster biotechnology education for high school students by providing federal grants for curriculum, teacher training, equipment, and partnerships, guided by a new national consortium.
What it actually does
This bill, titled the "Biotechnology for All High School Students Act," amends the CHIPS and Science Act to authorize the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to make competitive awards to eligible entities. These awards would support the implementation of new and expansion of existing biotechnology education programs for secondary school students, including those in informal learning environments. It also establishes a National Biotechnology Education Consortium to provide support and recommendations to the Director.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill is crucial for preparing the next generation workforce in the rapidly growing biotechnology sector. They contend that early exposure and robust education in biotechnology will foster innovation, address future workforce demands, and ensure American competitiveness in a critical scientific field. Proponents highlight the importance of equitable access to such education, especially in underserved communities.
Opponents contend
Critics might express concerns about the potential for federal overreach into local education decisions or question the effectiveness of a new federal grant program versus existing state and local initiatives. Some may argue that without specific appropriations, the bill is largely symbolic, or that the administrative costs of establishing and managing a new consortium and grant program could be inefficient.
The bill is short and clearly written, making it accessible for a quick read and easy to understand its core provisions within the given timeframe.
Section 2(a), new Section 10311A(a)
Biotechnology Education Grant Program
This provision authorizes the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF), in consultation with the Secretary of Education, to establish a competitive grant program. The grants will be awarded to eligible entities, such as schools, higher education institutions, and non-profits, to create new or expand existing biotechnology education programs for secondary school students, including those outside traditional classroom settings.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this program is essential to build a skilled workforce for the growing biotechnology industry, ensuring students are prepared for future careers and national competitiveness. They believe it will democratize access to high-quality STEM education.
Critics contend
Some critics might argue that establishing a new federal grant program duplicates efforts that could be handled by existing state or local educational funding mechanisms, potentially leading to administrative inefficiencies rather than direct educational impact.
Tradeoffs
The tension lies between the desire for a nationally coordinated effort to boost biotech education and the potential for federal programs to overlap with or dictate local educational priorities. It also balances the need for broad access with the reality of limited funding.
Section 2(a), new Section 10311A(c)
Authorized Uses of Grant Funds
This section outlines specific ways the grant funds can be used. These include professional development for teachers in biotechnology, development and distribution of curricula, acquisition of laboratory equipment, establishment of partnerships between educational institutions and private sector entities, and the creation of transferable biotechnology credentials for students.
Section 2(a), new Section 10311A(f)
National Biotechnology Education Consortium Establishment
This provision mandates the establishment of a National Biotechnology Education Consortium within 180 days of the bill's enactment. This Consortium, composed of representatives from federal agencies, eligible entities, and biotechnology stakeholders, will advise the NSF Director and the Secretary of Education on biotechnology education programs for secondary school students. The Consortium is set to terminate five years after its establishment.