The House Science, Space and Technology Committee approved a measure on Wednesday that would provide funding for research and development that promotes investments in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) educational programs.
The Frontiers in Innovation, Research, Science and Technology (FIRST) Act would reauthorize investments at the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and provide federal funding for research and development efforts.
Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas), the chairman of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee, said the U.S. must ensure its priorities are funded to remain globally competitive.
“The FIRST Act keeps America first in areas of science and research that are crucial to economic growth,” Smith said. “It focuses taxpayer investments for basic research in the critical areas of physical science and engineering. These are the fields that are essential for technological innovations that will lead to the creation of new jobs, new businesses and industries of the future. This bill strengthens the economy, improves people’s lives and creates a more open and responsive government.”
The measure would also include provisions that are designed to increase accountability. The NSF would be required to justify the scientific merit and relevance of each grant it awards with a published explanation.
The measure would also take steps to increase participation in STEM educational programs. It would broaden the definition to include computer science and support student participation in non-profit competitions and field experiences that are related to STEM.
“During this time of fiscal uncertainty, the FIRST Act ensures dollars are stretched efficiently and effectively,” Rep. Larry Bucshon (R-Ind.), the chairman of the House Science, Space and Technology Subcommittee on Research and Technology, said. “This legislation strengthens accountability measures and transparency mechanisms while still providing flexibility for agencies to conduct basic research that will spur innovation. By setting priorities that drive investments in STEM, we better prepare our students for the jobs of the future and help to keep America competitive.”