“ Each executive branch department and agency that conducts, supports, or regulates research involving human subjects shall promptly review the protections of the rights and welfare of human research subjects that are afforded by the department's or agency's existing policies and procedures. ”

“ As a first priority, NBAC shall direct its attention to consideration of: protection of the rights and welfare of human research subjects; and issues in the management and use of genetic information, including but not limited to, human gene patenting. (b) NBAC shall consider four criteria in establishing the other priorities for its activities: (1) the public health or public policy urgency of the bioethical issue; (2) the relation of the bioethical issue to the goals for Federal investment in science and technology ”

“ In order to augment the expertise present on NBAC, the Secretary of Health and Human Services may contract for the services of nongovernmental consultants who may conduct analyses, prepare reports and background papers, or prepare other materials for consideration by NBAC, as appropriate. ”