60 
or states to set their own stricter regulations, including even 
a complete ban on this type of research. It is reasonable for 
the local community to participate in supervising adherence 
to regulations. But the question concerns speculative rather 
than known dangers and these would not vary from one 
locality to another. 
The research institutions of the country constitute an im- 
portant national resource, and differing local options could 
subject that resource to arbitrary regulations. Overly re- 
stricting this type of research would severely degrade the 
capability of biomedical research and limit its contribution 
to the public welfare. In essence, it would allow a local com- 
munity to affect a critical component of national policjn 
Above all, local option would set a dangerous pattern for 
the regulation of basic research in a manner that might de- 
prive society of substantial future benefits. 
Some of the legislation proposes to establish a national 
regulatory commission expressly to govern recombinant DNA 
research. Its broad powers for controlling basic research 
represent a wholly new and unfortunate departure. We are 
also concerned that it would set a precedent for the regula- 
tion of other areas of science. A much simpler and more 
flexible mechanism allowing for public participation could 
carry out those functions that may be needed. 
Therefore, be it resolved that we voice concern about legis- 
lative developments in this area and ask the president of 
the National Academy of Sciences to relay these concerns 
to appropriate officials in the government. 
D. Baltimore, B. D. Davis, H. Eagle, J. T. Ed- 
sall, C. Grobstein, D. M. Horstmann, R. 
Hotchkiss, R. J. Huebner, A. Rich, W. A. 
Rosenblith, F. N. Ruddle, R. L. Sinsheimer. 
E. L. Smith. 
Thus, while I agree with the intent of S. 1217, I have serious res- 
ervations about its approach, based on scientists' concerns that it will 
impose unnecessarily burdensome controls on scientific research. My 
concerns are as follows : 
(1) Commissi ov . — The bill will create a new and expensive bureauc- 
racy that is unwarranted. 
Section 1801 of S. 1217 establishes an independent Commission to 
license, regulate and make policy decisions regarding recombinant 
DNA activities. Members would be appointed by the President, with 
Senate approval for the Commission Chairman. A majority of the 
members would be public, nonscientists. Section 1801(b) prohibits a 
majority of members on the Commission who are or have been engaged 
in recombinant DNA research. This would severely limit the expertise 
of a Commission whose major purpose is to protect health and safety 
from untoward effects of such research. 
Furthermore, all members would have other primary responsibilities 
besides their Commission activities. Given the number and the highly 
technical nature of the assigned tasks, such a part-time Commission 
would be unworkable, in mv view. Section 181fi(e) permits the Com- 
mission to delegate technical matters to its staff or to ad hoc working 
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