And the actual number of crimes is likely much higher, for researchers are often reluctant to make themselves repeat targets by publicly acknowledging attacks. The physical damage is secondary to the threat to innovation and scientific discovery. The academic disciplines that seek to improve human health, our food supply and the environment are at greatest risk. Intimidation and violence have a predictable and unwelcome result, a chilling effect on scientific investigation and an impediment to discoveries that will improve our lives. She uses mice in the pursuit of a cure for breast cancer.
Federal action is needed.
Next week I will introduce legislation to enhance penalties for terrorism directed against the research community. Current law extends protection to animal lab research but not to plant labs like the UW center. The bombing campaign against labs is clearly a coordinated activity, as the simultaneous fire at an Oregon tree farm this week demonstrated. Links between crimes are not always as clear, and the disparate nature of this activity creates serious difficulties for law enforcement officials seeking patterns. A National Agroterrorism Incidence Clearinghouse, headed by the FBI, would collect and collate information and assist local law enforcement agencies.