Contact Congress about H.R. 1864: Risky Research Review Act

Federal agencies could not fund certain risky life sciences research unless a new board approves it first. Researchers would have to flag risky work, share funding details, and pause projects if the work becomes riskier.

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Risky Research Review Act is a House bill in committee. The latest recorded action: Referred to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

Latest action on H.R. 1864: Referred to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

Who this affects: This bill mainly affects researchers, universities, labs, and companies that seek federal money for life sciences work. It also affects federal agencies that fund this research, because they would have to screen applications and get board approval before funding high-risk projects. The public could be affected if the system lowers safety risks, slows useful research, or changes which projects receive support.

Why this matters: Some life sciences research can help fight disease, but it can also create safety or security risks if it involves dangerous pathogens. This bill would move key funding decisions to one independent board instead of leaving them only to each agency. That could make oversight more consistent. It could also add delays, paperwork, and harder calls about which research is worth the risk.

Key provisions in H.R. 1864

• Creates the Life Sciences Research Security Board as a new independent federal agency. The board would have binding power over federal funding for high-risk life sciences research.
• Defines high-risk life sciences research in two main ways. It covers dual-use research involving dangerous pathogens and gain-of-function work that may make a pathogen spread more easily or cause worse disease.
• Gives the board the final say on what counts as high-risk research. It also decides how key terms apply and whether a proposed federal award must go through board review.
• Federal agencies that fund life sciences research must build a screening process with the board. They must find high-risk proposals and certify the statements applicants submit.
• Agencies could not fund high-risk life sciences research unless the board approves it. This ban starts 180 days after the new law takes effect.

How Modern Action helps you take action on H.R. 1864

You do not have to start with a blank letter. Modern Action turns the bill, your position, and the relevant congressional context into a message you can edit and send. The goal is to make contacting Congress clear, specific, and useful without forcing you to parse bill text or figure out the right office on your own.

Questions people ask about H.R. 1864

What is H.R. 1864?

Federal agencies could not fund certain risky life sciences research unless a new board approves it first. Researchers would have to flag risky work, share funding details, and pause projects if the work becomes riskier.

How do I support or oppose H.R. 1864?

Choose support, oppose, or ask for changes on Modern Action. The action flow drafts the message for you and keeps the wording tied to this bill.

Who should I contact about H.R. 1864?

Modern Action uses your location to route the action to the congressional offices relevant to the bill and your representation.

Can Modern Action explain H.R. 1864 before I act?

Yes. Modern Action gives you a plain-English summary, current status, and action context before you send anything.