The BIO-SCALE Act would direct the Secretary of Commerce to establish at least three nonprofit facilities where public and private groups could develop, test, and scale up technologies for making bio-based chemicals, fuels, materials, and other products. The facilities would offer open access and support processes such as fermentation and biomass processing. The bill also calls for coordination with other federal agencies, annual reports to Congress, and oversight of facility access and operations.
The facilities could give researchers, businesses, colleges, and other eligible groups places to test and scale up bioindustrial technologies. The bill gives preference to facilities near feedstock sources, in areas with existing bioindustrial activity, and in regions that need more infrastructure, especially rural areas. It does not guarantee specific jobs or services for individuals.
The bill would authorize $345 million for fiscal years 2026 through 2028 and $117 million for fiscal years 2029 through 2030. Up to 7.5% of the amounts made available each year could be used for administrative and oversight costs. These are authorized amounts; the text does not say how much would ultimately be spent.
The bill describes its goals as advancing bioindustrial innovation, helping technologies reach commercial use, supporting workforce development, and strengthening U.S. competitiveness and national security. No statements by individual proponents are provided in the text.
No publicly available information.