SECTION 1.
The Legislature hereby finds and declares all of the following:(a) CRISPR is a new gene editing technology that is a substantial improvement over other gene editing technologies in the ease of use, efficacy, and, in particular, cost. CRISPR is an acronym for “clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats,” which are unique DNA sequences found in some bacteria and other microorganisms. The most-studied CRISPR system is associated with the Cas9 protein
and is known as CRISPR-Cas9. During 2012 and 2013, researchers modified CRISPR-Cas9 to serve as an effective and efficient technology for editing the genomes of plants, animals, and microorganisms. Many in the scientific community believe CRISPR-Cas9 (hereafter CRISPR) has revolutionized gene editing with its simplicity, low cost relative to other methods of gene editing, and creation of new research opportunities.
(b) CRISPR has the potential to offer revolutionary advancements in the investigation, prevention, and treatment of diseases, especially those with limited or no effective treatments. There has been significant research using CRISPR to treat diabetes,
malaria, and sickle cell disease, among others.
(c) The interest, efforts, and investments of the industrial and financial communities suggest the potential economic benefits are substantial. It is anticipated that the global market for gene editing will reach $8.1 billion by 2025. The potential of CRISPR is further reflected in the rapid increase in CRISPR-related federal research funding and scientific publications. Funding from the National Institutes of Health grew from $5,100,000 in 2011 to $603,000,000 in 2016. Similarly, the number of CRISPR-related publications increased from 86 in 2011 to 2,162 in 2016.
(d) However, there are concerns within the science community on the amateur use of this innovative technology. Currently, there are materials with the capabilities of
experimenting with CRISPR technology available for purchase by the public. These “CRISPR kits” have been marketed for self-administration. The affordability and accessibility of these products have benefited educational institutions, but concerns remain about the impact on consumer safety and public health.
(e) Concerns have also been raised as to what can be created through the amateur use of CRISPR technology. There are instances in which research teams have recreated extinct strains of viral diseases from scratch. The use of CRISPR technology has been subjected to regulations in the European Union. The United States Food and Drug Administration has stated that the sale of gene therapy products with the intent of self-administration is against the law, and cites concerns about safety risks.
(f) It is the intent of the Legislature to ensure the safety of the consumer and the public without stifling innovation. Due to the infancy of CRISPR technology, especially for public consumption, more research is needed to ensure safety of the administration of these products. Therefore, it is appropriate to notify consumers that any CRISPR-related gene therapy products for sale are not intended for self-administration.