Lance announces Congressional Life Science Caucus

U.S. Rep. Leonard Lance (R-NJ) was joined on Monday by BioNJ President and CEO Debbie Hart in announcing the creation of the Congressional Life Science Caucus.

“New Jersey depends on the life science sector and the world depends on its innovation,” Lance said. “From health care to energy needed to power the 21st century economy, the life science sector is vital to the health, wellness, safety and advancement of our nation and world. The work done right here in Bridgewater will help craft the solutions to some this century’s most pressing challenges. The life science industries have decided to call New Jersey home because of our well-educated work force and support of their mission. The job of the Congressional Life Science Caucus will be to empower and give these industries the support of the public sector. New Jersey and the world are counting on them.”

The caucus will consist of a bipartisan working group focused on educating members of Congress, federal stakeholders and other industries on the life science sector’s legislative goals. The life science sector is a major source of jobs in New Jersey, including biotechnology, diagnostic and medical devices, digital health, agriculture and renewable energy.

“BioNJ commends Congressman Leonard Lance on his decision to co-found the Congressional Life Science Caucus, along with Congressman Scott Peters,” Hart said. “Congressman Lance has been instrumental in developing and supporting the life science ecosystem in New Jersey, home to one of the nation’s largest biotech clusters. He knows the importance of the industry that is bringing new treatments and cures to patients around the world, as well as contributing substantially to New Jersey’s economy. We are proud that he will play such an important role in supporting the industry nationally as well as in his home state of New Jersey.”

During his time in Congress, Lance has called for greater investment in life science research and development as a means of fostering innovation and growth, bringing life-saving treatments to patients, promoting cleaner manufacturing processes and energy, and keeping America competitive.

Representative Leonard Lance (R-NJ) has represented New Jersey’s 7th District in the House of Representatives since 2009. Born in Easton, Pennsylvania in 1952, Rep. Lance previously served as member of New Jersey Senate from 2002 to 2009. Rep. Lance was educated at Lehigh University and married to Heidi A. Rohrbach.

He serves on the following committees: Appropriations and Budget Committee.