KIE: An immediate ban on human genetic engineering that alters germ cells is called for in a resolution, written by activist Jeremy Rifkin, that was released last week over the signatures of 21 Catholic bishops, a broad spectrum of Protestant and Jewish religious leaders, and three scientists. The resolution takes a much harder line than was espoused by religious leaders in a letter to the now-defunct President's Commission for the Study of Ethical Problems in Medicine and Biomedical and Behavioral Research. Several of the signers indicated that they did not fully agree with the resolution, but saw it as a good vehicle to encourage public discussion.