Finds that although research in biotechnology is relatively new, exposures to dangerous substances from various biotechnology labs around the country already have occurred.

Declares that safe and responsible biotechnology research requires that the research be transparent, subject to independent oversight and regulation, and that violations of those regulations be effectively sanctioned.

Provides for a biological research laboratory health and safety program for Washington state.

Authorizes the department of health to adopt rules for the implementation of the program that establish the criteria for determining appropriate locations for siting a building or facility that contains a laboratory.

Creates the Washington state biosafety commission.

Provides for institutional biosafety committees.

Establishes guidelines for preapproval requirements for certain research, emergency suspension of permits, reporting, training, waste management, an emergency response plan, inspections, and violations.