Burr's bio-terror bill passes.

Byline: Mary M. Shaffrey

Dec. 10--WASHINGTON -- A bill sponsored by Rep. Richard Burr, R-N.C., to create a new federal agency to combat bio-terrorism was among the pieces of legislation passed in a round of early-morning votes by Congress yesterday.

The bill establishing the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority was passed by the House of Representatives by a voice vote.

BARDA, as the bill is commonly known, was passed earlier this week by the Senate. It now goes to the president for his signature.

"Everyone said it could never happen. I am just relieved that it's all behind us and passed," Burr said.

He expects the president will …