Relates to the operation of gene synthesis providers and manufacturers of gene synthesis equipment

Replaced a mandatory requirement to follow specific international protocols with a requirement to follow rules and regulations issued by the state department.

Added a formal definition for 'gene synthesis provider' to clarify that it includes any entity synthesizing and distributing synthetic nucleic acids.

Granted the Department of Health the authority to draft and issue specific rules and regulations based on industry standards and international recommendations.

Expanded the definition of regulated items to include laboratory equipment intended for use by gene synthesis providers, not just the synthesis equipment itself.

Deleted specific mandatory screening steps, including checking against specific federal and international pathogen lists, translating DNA to amino acid sequences, and verifying customer identities against government watchlists.

Removed detailed record-keeping mandates, such as retaining gene synthesis records and screening results for eight years.

Changed the title and text to require providers to operate in accordance with international protocols rather than listing specific domestic and international regulations they must follow.

Added a reference to the 'most recent version of the harmonized screening protocol' as the standard for compliance.