Duval Times

Senator Rick Scott has expressed concerns over genetic data-sharing agreements between the Smithsonian Institution and programs run by the Chinese Communist Party. In a letter to the Secretary of the Smithsonian, Senator Scott requested information regarding the partnership between the Smithsonian and companies such as the Beijing Genomics Institute (BGI), which is listed as a Chinese military company operating in the United States and may pose a risk to national security.

The partnership between the Smithsonian and BGI came to light in 2020 when the institution reported the release of genomes of birds representing nearly all avian families as part of the Global Genome Initiative. The collaboration with BGI and other Chinese groups has raised concerns due to BGI's inclusion on the Department of Defense's 1260H list, which identifies Chinese military companies operating in the United States. The Washington Post has reported that BGI has been aggressively acquiring genomic information, causing alarm within the intelligence community. The National Counterintelligence and Security Center also issued a warning about BGI and Communist China's genomic data collection activities.

In his letter, Senator Scott raised several questions regarding the Smithsonian's relationship with BGI and other Chinese entities. He requested clarification on how BGI was chosen as a partner, whether any tax dollars were given to BGI, and whether the Smithsonian plans to partner with BGI or other Chinese firms in the future. Senator Scott also inquired about the Smithsonian's vetting processes and whether it consults with relevant national security federal agencies before entering into partnerships with foreign entities.

As the Smithsonian Institution receives over a billion dollars in annual appropriations from Congress, Senator Scott emphasized the importance of ensuring the best return on investment and safeguarding the collected data, particularly that of American citizens and businesses. He urged the Smithsonian to prioritize partnerships that not only promote economic growth and increased knowledge but also protect the investment from misuse by foreign entities outside the United States.

The concerns raised by Senator Rick Scott highlight the growing scrutiny over genetic data-sharing agreements with Chinese companies and the potential risks they may pose to national security. The Smithsonian Institution now faces the task of addressing these concerns and providing the requested information to alleviate any doubts regarding its partnerships with BGI and other Chinese entities.