Genetically Engineered Organism Liability Act of 2005

H.R. 5271, the Genetically Engineered Organism Liability Act of 2005, would establish that biotechnology companies are legally responsible for any damages caused by the release of genetically engineered organisms into the environment. Under this bill, companies could not use waivers or contracts to avoid liability if their products cause harm to individuals, property, or other businesses. For everyday citizens and farmers, this means that if a genetically modified crop or organism causes unintended economic or environmental injury, the burden of cost would fall on the manufacturer rather than the affected party.