U.S. Rep. James P. McGovern voiced his opposition Monday as the House of Representatives passed the Biosecure Act, a bill that places restrictions on Chinese biotech companies, including WuXi Biologics, which is building a $300 million facility in Worcester, Reuters reports.
Despite McGovern’s objections, the bill passed with a strong majority of 306 to 81.
McGovern, a known critic of China’s human rights abuses, raised concerns on the House floor, saying he could not get clear answers on how companies like WuXi were identified as national security risks. WuXi Biologics, currently pausing construction on its Belmont Street project in Worcester, has defended itself, saying it poses no risk to U.S. interests.
During his testimony on Monday, McGovern quipped he’s one of the few members of Congress who is sanctioned by China, banned from visiting the country and meeting with any Chinese government officials. He said China “clearly does like me,” but that he wears those sanctions with a badge of honor.
“All of this is to say that my record on this issue takes a back seat to nobody,” McGovern continued. “And that is why I deeply regret that we are bringing this particular bill to the floor. This is a lost opportunity to do something meaningful about an important and serious issue—an issue that deserves a lot more thought and attention than this.
“First of all, the bill lists out specific companies that it claims are exploiting the U.S. bio- pharmaceutical industry on behalf of the Chinese government. To be totally frank, some of them might be. But also to be totally frank, some of them might not be. And I can’t get a clear answer from anyone on how the select committee came up with these names…. there ought to be a clear, transparent that is implemented the same for all companies.”
WuXi Biologics remains committed to the Worcester project, according to a company spokesperson, who attributed the construction delay to a design review rather than political concerns. The facility is expected to create 200 new jobs and is a key part of the region’s biomanufacturing community.
The Biosecure Act, which now moves to the Senate, seeks to prevent federal contracts with certain Chinese biotech firms, citing national security risks, and sets a 2032 deadline for U.S. companies to disengage from these firms. WuXi Biologics has rejected claims of posing a security threat, stating it operates independently of any foreign government influence.
The company has stressed its commitment to Worcester, highlighting the 400 jobs it has already created at other U.S. sites. The new legislation threatens its future in the federal contracting space and raises concerns over potential impacts on local projects like the Worcester facility.
The bill’s supporters, which include Representatives John Moolenaar and Raja Krishnamoorthi, the chair and ranking member of the House Select Committee on China, respectively, argue its critical to protect U.S. pharmaceutical supply chains and the personal health data of Americans. The companies that are targeted by the legislation argue these claims are unfounded and could stifle competition in the biotech industry.
The legislation now awaits Senate approval before heading to President Joe Biden’s desk for final passage.
Charlene Arsenault can be contacted at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org
As the Worcester Guardian marks nearly a year of delivering free, independent digital news to our city, our dedication to this mission strengthens. Please consider a tax-deductible donation to support our ongoing commitment to providing hyperlocal news coverage to Worcester. Scroll to the bottom of our home page to sign up for our daily newsletter
