MINORITY VIEWS OF SENATOR HARRISON SCHMITT 
I cannot agree with the general thrust toward the excessive regula- 
tion of a form of basic scientific research that is inherent in the ma- 
jority’s recommendations. The suggested risk cited for recombinant 
DNA research is purely theoretical and hypothetical. This suggestion 
is not supported by our knowledge of recombinant processes that have 
occurred in nature since life began billions of years ago or by other 
scientific considerations. 
Many of the conclusions and recommendations made by the majority 
are unwarranted and not supported by the weight of the testimony 
presented during the 8 days of hearings held by the Science, Tech- 
nology, and Space Subcommittee. Because of the debilitating effect 
that over-regulation of basic research would have on all science and 
technology in the United States, the following dissenting views are 
offered for the benefit of committee members and others. 
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS 
At the outset, it is important to emphasize that the potential risk sur- 
rounding research with recombinant DNA molecules was brought to 
the public’s attention by the specific group of research scentists in- 
volved in such research. This was done at a very early stage in our 
understanding of recombinant processes. The end result was the cre- 
ation of the present National Institutes of Health (NIH) guidelines 
governing publicly funded DNA research. This is an aspect of the re- 
combinant DNA controveisv that should not be ignored, for it demon- 
strates both a high level of professional responsibilitv and the fact 
that the system can work without unnecessarily restrictive regulations. 
( See attachment A.) 
Moreover, it is significant that some of the scientists who first called 
attention to the conjectural hazards, after more research and after 
consultation with scientists in related disciplines, have since reas- 
sessed the situation and changed their perception of the risk. (See at- 
tachment B.) The NIH is presently considering proposed revisions to 
the guidelines that would have the effect of further relaxing the stand- 
ards to take into account this new understanding. These factors dem- 
onstrate the preliminary nature of our knowledge in this relatively 
new field of scientific inquiry. Any actions taken by the Congress or 
the executive branch should be considered as an interim measure until 
further information is obtained from which we can make an accurate 
assessment of the hazards, if any. associated with such research. 
The use of recombinant techniques to modify fundamental genetic 
material offers great promise for all mankind through improved under- 
standing of biological processes, and varied applications in such fields 
as medicine, production of enzymes for industry, and agriculture. It 
is now one of our foremost weapons in the search for an inexpensive 
(50) 
[Appendix B — 309] 
