Members of Wisconsin State Assembly Seek Nanotechnology Registry

Three members of the Wisconsin State Legislature have requested a Legislative Council study to be conducted on the feasibility of creating a nanotechnology registry and the development of subsequent legislation, to monitor the use, manufacture and disposal of nanomaterials in Wisconsin. If granted, this will join a select number of other State initiatives addressing the safe use of engineered nanomaterials.

The request comes in the wake of an Assembly Public Health Committee informational hearing on nanotechnology held in October, at which Project on Emerging Technologies Chief Science Dr. Advisor Andrew Maynard testified. Maynard outlined the promise of nanotechnology, but cautioned that proactive steps to avoid possible harm are needed if that promise is to be realized.

In 2008, the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies (PEN) published the report “Room at the Bottom?” by Suellen Keiner, which identified possible options for state and local governments for overseeing of the potential negative impacts of nanotechnology in the absence of clear federal regulations or guidelines.

To read the letter sent to the co-chairs of the Legislative Council Committee, requesting a Legislative Council study be conducted on the feasibility of creating a nanotechnology registry in Wisconsin click here.