U.S. Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-CA) on June 7 introduced a bipartisan bill that would create a non-profit foundation to support the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) mission to advance measurement science, standards, and emerging technologies.
“It is vital that America maintains its position as the world leader in science and technology,” Rep. Obernolte said.
The congressman cosponsored the Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness (EPIC) Act, H.R. 8673, with bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI). The legislation would create an independent Foundation for Standards and Metrology (FSM) to engage with academia, industry, and civil society organizations with the goal of creating innovative partnerships that support NIST’s mission.
By providing NIST with the same flexibility that other federal science agencies, such as the Department of Energy, already have, NIST will have the support needed to foster the commercialization of emerging technologies, such as AI and quantum computing, Rep. Obernolte’s office said.
Establishing an FSM would provide NIST with greater access to private sector and philanthropic funding; diverse collaborations with industry, non-profit organizations, and academia; and would support NIST’s workforce through education, training, recruitment, and professional development, a bill summary stated.
“The creation of the Foundation for Standards and Metrology will assist in ensuring industry, non-profits, and academia receive the resources that they need to establish cutting-edge standards that enhances the economic security and prosperity of the U.S., which is why I’m proud to be the Republican co-lead on this critical legislation,” Rep. Obernolte said.
H.R. 8673 is under consideration in the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee.