29 
Dr. Martin said the December 31, 1984, Federal Register proposal is an 
"enormous can of worms.” He thought it posed significant threats to recom- 
binant DMA technology, medical research, and the U.S. economy. He argued 
that if U.S. industries are not successful in first applying this technology 
and capturing markets, the U.S. will experience a loss of jobs, particularly 
for skilled and academically trained individuals. 
Dr. Jcklik agreed with Dr. Martin, and supported Dr. Clcwes ' suggestion; 
he thought expanded use of working groups and subcommittees under RAC's 
purview would be much preferable to the plan proposed in the December 31, 
1984, Federal Register . 
Dr. Pramer said a consistent feature of those comments he had seen is a 
recognition of RAC and its activities. The American Society for Microbiology 
(ASM j comment on the Federal Register, proposal spoke in favor of continuing 
with a single review body rather than with a number of separate units. ASM 
expressed concern that differences in policy and procedures might exist 
with separate oversight bodies, and it wouldn't take long for individuals or 
institutions to find the path of least resistance. 
Mr. Mitchell asked Dr. Talbot hew RAC might appropriately continue to have 
a meaningful role in the development of oversight of biotechnology. RAC 
has a unique background of experience and should continue to play a role 
in this process. 
"Dr. Talbot said the ccmments made at the RAC meeting will be transmitted to 
the NIH Director. The Director represents the NTH at the Cabinet Council 
Working Group. 
Dr. Talbot said if the other responses received by the Cabinet Council 
Working Group con tad n similar carmen ts , strong pressure will exist to 
revise the preposed structure towards a single RAC or a modified RAC. 
Negotiations between the various agencies must be held. 
Dr. Gottesiran said it might be useful to have some formal discussion of the 
issues with representatives of the Cabinet Council. She said RAC would be 
eager to participate in an exchange of concerns. 
Dr. Edwin Shy kind who identified himself as a member of the Cabinet Council 
Working Group said he would report RAC's request. He said the RAC and the 
Cabinet Council Working Group should attempt to work together closely. 
Dr. Carl Mazza of the EPA said the ccm m ents received in response to the 
December 31, 1984, Federal Register are being read very carefully by the 
various regulatory agencies. 
Dr. Mazza said U.S. regulatory laws are complex, and it's no surprise that 
a complex document developed from the attempt to describe all of these 
regulations in one document. 
[149] 
