Gene-Edited Plants: Regulation and Issues for Congress (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
Revised Nov. 30, 2024 |
| Report Number |
IF12618 |
| Report Type |
In Focus |
| Authors |
Eleni G. Bickell |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
| Older Revisions |
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Summary:
Plant biotechnology, which includes gene editing and
genetic engineering, allows a more precise and efficient
method for developing desirable traits in crops compared to
conventional breeding, which relies on natural genetic
variation. Gene editing techniques can modify specific
genes in plants without introducing foreign genes, unlike
other genetic engineering methods. Gene-edited plants are
regulated under the U.S. Coordinated Framework for the
Regulation of Biotechnology. The framework coordinates
how three agencies—the U.S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)—regulate
biotechnology products in order to ensure safety. Executive
orders (E.O.s) direct these agencies to update their
regulatory approaches to foster innovation while protecting
human health and the environment. Potential issues for
Congress include evaluating current policies, determining
the potential risks and benefits of gene-edited plants, and
reviewing whether the coordination among USDA, FDA,
and EPA is effective. Options include reviewing the
agencies’ regulatory efforts, considering updated authorities
or clearer definitions, streamlining low-risk innovation, and
assessing the level of funding for research.
