July 10, 2003

Mr. Chairman, thank you for scheduling this hearing. The laws, policies, and practices that govern the process of technology transfer are one of the keys to improving public health. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) will spend approximately $28 billion this year on biomedical research. Other government programs will also make multibillion dollar contributions to this kind of research. This will be augmented by nearly $30 billion in research and development expenditures by the pharmaceutical industry. Philanthropies and individuals will also make significant contributions to biomedical research.

In order for this level of support to be sustained or enhanced, the translation of basic research into useful therapies needs to occur at an acceptable pace. We have an excellent array of witnesses who will inform us of what is working well, and what could be improved, in our biomedical research and development technology transfer programs.

The Bayh-Dole and the Stevenson-Wydler Acts were passed in 1980 to address the need to convert federal investments in basic research into useful innovations that improve public health. The ensuing years have shown that these programs, augmented by others, have led to some notable successes. Bayh-Dole is one of the key reasons we have a robust biotechnology industry. Training programs for scientists and medical personnel, as well as advancement of knowledge, have flourished at universities in every state. We have many new therapies that are enabling persons with serious and life threatening diseases to live longer, suffer less, and enjoy life to a greater extent. These activities and products provide thousands of jobs and stimulate our economy.