9 
scale experimentation and production using rDNA technology. 
With this change, the guidelines cover large and small scale 
uses of rDNA technology in the laboratory and production plant. 
Overall, the NIH guidelines have worked well and all PMA 
companies voluntarily comply with them. 
In addition to NIH, other federal agencies are examining 
their existing responsibilities and developing policies with 
regard to rDNA and other genetic technologies. Thus, industry 
is in a position to demonstrate responsible action and contribute 
to the formulation policy. 
C. Congress 
Congressional activity over the years has reflected the 
ebb and flow of the public debate. In 1977, several attempts 
werq made to focus attention on the recombinant DNA issues 
through hearings, legislation, and special evaluations of 
progress. Proposals were put forth to create a special 
commission to study the rDNA research issue. At least two 
committees identified the evolution of this issue over the past 
several years as a matter of vital public policy concern and 
suggested the need to monitor the research continuously in order 
to be prepared for further legislative action if necessary. In 
1978, legislation to regulate and study the implications of 
research involving the rDNA techniques was introduced but never 
progressed beyond committee evaluation. 
Biotechnology, however, remains a vital legislative 
issue. In 1981 and 1982, the House Science and Technology Sub- 
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