A group of technology executives, AI leaders and security experts is pressing Congress to impose new safeguards on companies that sell synthetic DNA, arguing that buyers should be verified and orders logged to reduce the risk of misuse.

The push comes as synthetic biology tools become more accessible and the potential for dangerous applications draws greater attention from policymakers. In a letter and related advocacy effort, the signatories urged lawmakers to require DNA sellers to check the identity of customers and maintain records of synthetic-DNA orders. Supporters say those measures would create a clearer chain of accountability and make it harder for bad actors to obtain materials that could be used for harmful purposes.

The appeal is notable because it includes leaders from the technology and artificial intelligence sectors, not just biosafety advocates. Their involvement reflects growing concern across industries that advances in one field can amplify risks in another, especially when powerful tools become easier to obtain through commercial channels.

Advocates for tighter controls argue that the existing system leaves gaps. Without consistent verification and logging requirements, they say, companies that synthesize DNA may not always have enough information to flag suspicious requests or cooperate effectively with authorities if there is a concern about misuse. They contend that a federal standard would help avoid a patchwork of voluntary practices and uneven protections across the industry.

The request centers on two main requirements. First, sellers would need to confirm that customers are who they claim to be before fulfilling orders. Second, they would need to keep records of synthetic DNA transactions. Proponents say those steps would not eliminate risk, but they could make screening more consistent and improve traceability.

The call for action also highlights a broader debate over how to regulate emerging technologies without slowing legitimate research and commercial activity. Synthetic DNA is a crucial input for medical research, industrial biotechnology and other scientific work. Any new rules, supporters acknowledge, would need to balance security concerns with the needs of researchers and companies that rely on fast, reliable access to genetic material.

At the same time, the involvement of CEOs and AI leaders suggests an effort to shape policy before a crisis forces the issue. They are urging Congress to act proactively rather than waiting for a misuse incident to prompt tighter oversight.

Lawmakers have faced mounting pressure to update rules around biotechnology as synthetic tools have become cheaper and more widely available. The latest appeal adds to that discussion by focusing on the supply chain itself, making the case that controls at the point of sale could be one of the most practical ways to reduce risk.

The effort underscores a common theme in current technology policy debates. As powerful tools become more accessible, industry leaders are increasingly asking for baseline rules that they say can protect the public while preserving innovation. In this case, the requested standards would place more responsibility on companies that make synthetic DNA, requiring them to know their customers and document what they sell.