San Diego – Last evening, U.S. Congressman Scott Peters (CA-52) was honored by Biocom as the “Elected Official of the Year.” The award recognizes Congressman Peters’ advocacy for federal scientific research and commitment in Congress to promoting San Diego’s world-renowned biotechnology industry. Peters, who shares the award with Speaker Toni Atkins, is the first legislator to receive the award for two consecutive years. This is also Peters’ third time receiving the award; he was also given the honor in 2008, when he was San Diego City Council President.

“San Diego is a global leader in biotechnology, the life sciences, innovation and research. These dynamic industries create and support high-quality jobs across our region,” Rep. Peters said. “It is an honor to receive this award, but mostly I am grateful to BIOCOM staff and members for the education, backup, and support they have given me. The education they provide to legislators helps us become better, smarter advocates for jobs, economic growth, and life-saving therapies and research.”

“It is with great pleasure that Biocom presents Congressman Scott Peters with our Elected Official of the Year award for the second year in a row,” said Joe Panetta, President and CEO of Biocom. “Scott has proven himself to be a leading voice for the life science industry, not only for Southern California but for the country, from co-founding a Life Science Caucus in the House of Representatives to his efforts to repeal the medical device tax to advocating for balanced and targeted patent reform. Biocom looks forward to continuing working with Congressman Peters to advance the interests of our life science community.”

Throughout his time in Congress, Congressman Peters has fought for the San Diego region’s biotechnology and life sciences industries and their legislative priorities. In 2015, Congressman Peters led a bipartisan charge against misguided patent legislation that threatens to undermine America’s innovation economy. He also introduced legislation to promote the use of wireless medical technologies to help bend the cost curve of health care, helped pass a repeal of the harmful medical device excise tax in the House of Representatives, and, most recently, launched the bipartisan Life Science Caucus.

Congressman Peters serves the 52nd District of California which covers much of central San Diego County including Poway, Coronado, and large portions of the City of San Diego. He is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and House Judiciary Committee. The Congressman is a former environmental attorney, City Council President, and Port Commission Chairman.