AI CEOs and Scientists Urge Congress to Tighten Screening of Synthetic DNA

Key Points

• OpenAI, DeepMind, Anthropic, Microsoft AI and other leaders signed a letter to Congress on June 3, 2026.
• The letter calls for mandatory screening of customers and DNA/RNA orders by all U.S. gene‑synthesis providers.
• Advances in AI make it easier to design dangerous gene sequences that can evade current screening tools.
• A 2023 Microsoft study showed AI‑generated proteins slipping past commercial screening software.
• A bipartisan Senate bill would codify mandatory screening, building on Biden‑era federal guidelines.
• Experts warn that screening must be part of a broader, layered biosecurity strategy.