Who is affected by the new select agent regulation?
Everybody who handles agents on the list of Select Agents. Principal investigators (PIs) must register the possession of select agents with the Biological Safety officer in EHS. Failure to comply could result in criminal penalties. In addition, the Patriot Act of 2001 prohibits restricted persons from possessing, shipping, transporting or receiving select agents. Also, the Patriot Act prohibits the possession of a biological agent, toxin or delivery (a list broader than select agents) of a type or quantity that is not reasonably justified by a prophylactic, protective, bona fide research, or other peaceful purpose.
