• The "Biosecurity Modernization and Innovation Act" requires covered entities (those who synthesize/sell nucleic acids or produce/sell nucleic acid synthesis equipment in interstate or foreign commerce) to establish protocols for verifying buyer identity, determining purchase purpose, screening for high-risk "covered sequences," refusing risky sales, and notifying the Secretary of Commerce of potential national security threats.
• The Secretary of Commerce must establish and maintain a list of "covered sequences" (high-risk nucleic acid sequences), issue guidance within 180 days, and enforce compliance through civil actions with penalties up to $750,000 per violation.
• The bill preempts state laws covering the same requirements but preserves state authority over contracts, torts, consumer protection, data privacy, public health, and government procurement of nucleic acids.

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