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Lawmakers learn about biosciencesKansas Members of the Kansas House of Representatives and Senate took part recently in a biosciences education tour that involved visits to research and development facilities and presentations about the biosciences-related companies in Kansas. "This was an invaluable opportunity for Kansas lawmakers to get a first-hand view of and learn about the biosciences industries ranging from animal health and plant sciences to human life science companies that are located in our state," explained House Speaker Melvin Neufeld, R-Ingalls. Scheduled tour stops were NanoScale Corporation, Manhattan; CritiTech and Higuchi Bioscience Center, Lawrence; and InterVet, DeSoto. Presentations included the KSU BioSecurity Facility; ICM, Inc.; Bayer CropScience; and MGP Ingredients. "Today's tour really brought home the fact our state is a world-wide leader in animal health and plant sciences research and development," said Rep. Sharon Schwartz, R-Washington. "It is an exciting time to be part of the biosciences industry. And as lawmakers, we need to make sure we know and understand the needs of these companies and what we can do to support their growth for the good of our state's economy." House Majority Leader Ray Merrick, R-Stilwell, said workforce development is one of the industry's biggest challenges. "Many students today don't see the value in studying math and sciences because they don't understand the future found in these disciplines. The biosciences industry offers high-paying jobs which are a great way to keep our best and brightest in Kansas," said Majority Leader Merrick. "We should look for ways to support and develop education programs that inspire our students to go into these fields of study." Speaker Neufeld said the 2007 House Republican Caucus Agenda includes working to complete the Olathe Bioscience Research Center by building on the successes of Kansas State University and biosciences companies already based in Kansas. "As a retired farmer, I understand the important role biosciences will play in the future of our state and country. It just makes sense we make sure Kansas continues to be a leader in the agribusiness and biosciences industries," Speaker Neufeld said. State lawmakers also recently approved legislation to support efforts to bring the proposed National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility to Kansas. The NBAF would replace the aging Plum Island facility, the federal government's most secure location for animal disease research. The $451 million dollar facility will employ between 250 and 500 scientists, technicians and other support staff. Sites in Leavenworth and Manhattan are among 18 which advanced to the next phase of the competitive process. B 8 3/12/07 1 Star WK Date: 3/8/07
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