A bill to provide incentives to increase research by private sector entities to develop antivirals, antibiotics and other drugs, vaccines, microbicides, and diagnostic technologies to prevent and treat illnesses associated with a biological, chemical, or radiological weapons attack.
Requires private sector entities that are engaged in certain research to register with the Department of Homeland Security if they wish to benefit from various tax, patent, procurement, liability limitations, and other incentives established under this Act. Classifies such research as: (1) countermeasures; (2) diagnostics to detect, identify, or analyze biological agents or toxins ("diagnostics"); and (3) research tools used in the laboratory ("research tools") that enable the rapid and effective development of countermeasures.
Establishes in the Treasury of the United States a "Terror Weapon Countermeasure Purchase Fund (TWCPF)" to purchase, and provide adequate payment for, countermeasures, diagnostics, and research tools.
Extends market exclusivity for new drugs that are countermeasures.
Directs the Secretary to enter into agreements to indemnify and defend persons or entities: (1) involved in the research, development, and production of countermeasures, diagnostics, or research tools purchased under the TWCPF; or (2) who face civil actions arising from human trials and research, development, and production of countermeasures certified under this Act.
Introduced in Senate
Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S10716-10725)
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.
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