News Release August 24, 2006

Public comment sought for Oregon Biopharmaceutical Policy Document

Public comment is now being accepted on a draft policy document for Oregon that includes specific recommendations for the production of biopharmaceuticals in the state. The policy document is available online at http://oregon.gov/ODA/PLANT/biopharm.shtml and comments will be accepted online at the same address.

Public comments can also be mailed to: Biopharm Comments, Plant Division, Oregon Department of Agriculture, 635 Capitol St. NE, Salem, OR 97301-2532. Comments will be accepted through September 22, 2006.

Hard copies of the policy document are also available by calling (503) 986-4636.

Biopharming is the production of pharmaceutical proteins or other medical compounds in genetically engineered plants and animals.

The policy document is the work of the Oregon Biopharming Ad Hoc Committee, which was formed by the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) and the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) in response to requests from the governor and State Legislature for scientific review, analysis, and recommendations.

The committee has been meeting on a regular basis to develop a consensus policy recommendation for consideration by the governor and the 2007 Legislature regarding biopharmaceuticals produced in human food or animal feed crops. The committee has considered a number of options ranging from a complete ban on biopharm crops to unqualified endorsement. The committee has chosen "endorsement, moderate scope" to indicate that it recommends wisely chosen and carefully studied applications of biopharm technology in Oregon.

The draft policy document concludes with a recommendation that "encourages the development of new agriculture and related technology development in Oregon, including biopharmaceutical production, while protecting and maintaining public health, economic vitality, the environment, and Oregon agriculture." Specific issues are addressed in the list of recommendations found in the document.

The 10-member Oregon Biopharming Ad Hoc Committee is chaired by Jim Rue of the State Board of Agriculture and vice-chaired by Keith Harcourt of the Public Health Advisory Board. The State Board of Agriculture and the Public Health Advisory Board are equally represented on the committee along with two independent scientists and two non-voting exofficio members representing ODA and DHS.

For more information, contact Dave Stone (DHS) at (971) 673-0444 or Dan Hilburn (ODA) at (503) 986-4663.