NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION AUTHORIZATION ACT OF 1997
(House of Representatives - July 14, 1998)
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Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the
rules and concur in the Senate amendment to the bill
(H.R. 1273) to authorize appropriations for fiscal
years 1998 and 1999 for the National Science Foundation,
and for other purposes.
The Clerk read as follows:
Senate amendment:
Strike out all after the enacting clause and insert:
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the `National Science Foundation
Authorization Act of 1998'.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Director: The term `Director'
means the Director of the National Science Foundation
established under section 2 of the National Science
Foundation Act of 1950 (42 U.S.C. 1861).
(2) Foundation: The term `Foundation'
means the National Science Foundation established
under section 2 of the National Science Foundation
Act of 1950 (42 U.S.C. 1861).
(3) Board: The term `Board' means
the National Science Board established under section
2 of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 (42
U.S.C. 1861).
(4) United states: The term `United
States' means the several States, the District of
Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Virgin
Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of
the Northern Mariana Islands, and any other territory
or possession of the United States.
(5) National research facility: The
term `national research facility' means a research
facility funded by the Foundation which is available,
subject to appropriate policies allocating access,
for use by all scientists and engineers affiliated
with research institutions located in the United States.
TITLE I--NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION AUTHORIZATION
SEC. 101. FINDINGS; CORE STRATEGIES.
(a) Findings: Congress finds the
following:
(1) The United States depends upon its scientific
and technological capabilities to preserve the military
and economic security of the United States.
(2) America's leadership in the global marketplace
is dependent upon a strong commitment to education,
basic research, and development.
(3) A nation that is not technologically literate
cannot compete in the emerging global economy.
(4) A coordinated commitment to mathematics and science
instruction at all levels of education is a necessary
component of successful efforts to produce technologically
literate citizens.
(5) Professional development is a necessary component
of efforts to produce system wide improvements in
mathematics, engineering, and science education in
secondary, elementary, and postsecondary settings.
(6)(A) The mission of the National Science Foundation
is to provide Federal support for basic scientific
and engineering research, and to be a primary contributor
to mathematics, science, and engineering education
at academic institutions in the United States.
(B) In accordance with such mission, the long-term
goals of the National Science Foundation include providing
leadership to--
(i) enable the United States to maintain a position
of world leadership in all aspects of science, mathematics,
engineering, and technology;
(ii) promote the discovery, integration, dissemination,
and application of new knowledge in service to society;
and
(iii) achieve excellence in United States science,
mathematics, engineering, and technology education
at all levels.
(b) Core Strategies: In carrying
out activities designed to achieve the goals described
in subsection (a), the Foundation shall use the following
core strategies:
(1) Develop intellectual capital, both people and
ideas, with particular emphasis on groups and regions
that traditionally have not participated fully in
science, mathematics, and engineering.
(2) Strengthen the scientific infrastructure by investing
in facilities planning and modernization, instrument
acquisition, instrument design and development, and
shared-use research platforms.
(3) Integrate research and education through activities
that emphasize and strengthen the natural connections
between learning and inquiry.
(4) Promote partnerships with industry, elementary
and secondary schools, community colleges, colleges
and universities, other agencies, State and local
governments, and other institutions involved in science,
mathematics, and engineering to enhance the delivery
of math and science education and improve the technological
literacy of the citizens of the United States.
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SEC. 102. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
(a) Fiscal Year 1998:
(1) In general: There are authorized
to be appropriated to the Foundation $3,505,630,000
for fiscal year 1998.
(2) Specific allocations: Of the
amount authorized under paragraph (1)--
(A) $2,576,200,000 shall be made available to carry
out Research and Related Activities, of which--
(i) $370,820,000 shall be made available for Biological
Sciences;
(ii) $289,170,000 shall be made available for Computer
and Information Science and Engineering;
(iii) $360,470,000 shall be made available for Engineering;
(iv) $455,110,000 shall be made available for Geosciences;
(v) $715,710,000 shall be made available for Mathematical
and Physical Sciences;
(vi) $130,660,000 shall be made available for Social,
Behavioral, and Economic Sciences, of which up to
$1,000,000 may be made available for the United States-Mexico
Foundation for Science;
(vii) $165,930,000 shall be made available for United
States Polar Research Programs;
(viii) $62,600,000 shall be made available for United
States Antarctic Logistical Support Activities;
(ix) $2,730,000 shall be made available for the Critical
Technologies Institute; and
(x) $23,000,000 shall be made available for the Next
Generation Internet program;
(B) $632,500,000 shall be made available to carry
out Education and Human Resources Activities;
(C) $155,130,000 shall be made available for Major
Research Equipment;
(D) $136,950,000 shall be made available for Salaries
and Expenses; and
(E) $4,850,000 shall be made available for the Office
of Inspector General.
(b) Fiscal Year 1999:
(1) In general: There are authorized
to be appropriated to the Foundation $3,773,000,000
for fiscal year 1999.
(2) Specific allocations: Of the
amount authorized under paragraph (1)--
(A) $2,846,800,000 shall be made available to carry
out Research and Related Activities, of which--
(i) $417,820,000 shall be made available for Biological
Sciences;
(ii) $331,140,000 shall be made available for Computer
and Information Science and Engineering, including
$25,000,000 for the Next Generation Internet program;
(iii) $400,550,000 shall be made available for Engineering;
(iv) $507,310,000 shall be made available for Geosciences;
(v) $792,030,000 shall be made available for Mathematical
and Physical Sciences;
(vi) $150,260,000 shall be made available for Social,
Behavioral, and Economic Sciences, of which up to
$2,000,000 may be made available for the United States-Mexico
Foundation for Science;
(vii) $182,360,000 shall be made available for United
States Polar Research Programs;
(viii) $62,600,000 shall be made available for United
States Antarctic Logistical Support Activities;
(ix) $2,730,000 shall be made available for the Critical
Technologies Institute; and
(B) $683,000,000 shall be made available to carry
out Education and Human Resources Activities;
(C) $94,000,000 shall be made available for Major
Research Equipment;
(D) $144,000,000 shall be made available for Salaries
and Expenses; and
(E) $5,200,000 shall be made available for the Office
of Inspector General.
(c) Fiscal Year 2000:
(1) In general: There are authorized
to be appropriated to the Foundation $3,886,190,000
for fiscal year 2000.
(2) Specific allocations: Of the
amount authorized under paragraph (1)--
(A) $2,935,024,000 shall be made available to carry
out Research and Related Activities, of which up to--
(i) $2,000,000 may be made available for the U.S.-Mexico
Foundation for Science;
(ii) $25,000,000 may be made available for the Next
Generation Internet program;
(B) $703,490,000 shall be made available to carry
out Education and Human Resources Activities;
(C) $94,000,000 shall be made available for Major
Research Equipment;
(D) $148,320,000 shall be made available for Salaries
and Expenses; and
(E) $5,356,000 shall be made available for the Office
of Inspector General.
SEC. 103. PROPORTIONAL REDUCTION OF RESEARCH AND RELATED
ACTIVITIES AMOUNTS.
If the amount appropriated pursuant to section 102(a)(2)(A)
or (b)(2)(A) is less than the amount authorized under
that paragraph, the amount available for each scientific
directorate under that paragraph shall be reduced
by the same proportion.
SEC. 104. CONSULTATION AND REPRESENTATION EXPENSES.
From appropriations made under authorizations provided
in this Act, not more than $10,000 may be used in
each fiscal year for official consultation, representation,
or other extraordinary expenses. The Director shall
have the discretion to determine the expenses (as
described in this section) for which the funds described
in this section shall be used. Such a determination
by the Director shall be final and binding on the
accounting officers of the Federal Government.
SEC. 105. UNITED STATES MAN AND THE BIOSPHERE PROGRAM
LIMITATION.
No funds appropriated pursuant to this Act shall be
used for the United States Man and the Biosphere Program,
or related projects.
TITLE II--GENERAL PROVISIONS
SEC. 201. NATIONAL RESEARCH FACILITIES.
(a) Facilities Plan:
(1) In general: Not later than December
1, of each year, the Director shall, as part of the
annual budget request, prepare and submit to Congress
a plan for the proposed construction of, and repair
and upgrades to, national research facilities.
(2) Contents of the plan: The plan
shall include--
(A) estimates of the costs for the construction, repairs,
and upgrades described in paragraph (1);
(B) estimates of the costs for the operation and maintenance
of existing and proposed new facilities; and
(C) in the case of proposed new construction and for
major upgrades to existing facilities, funding profiles,
by fiscal year, and milestones for major phases of
the construction.
(3) Special rule: The plan shall
include cost estimates in the categories of construction,
repair, and upgrades--
(A) for the year in which the plan is submitted to
Congress; and
(B) for not fewer than the succeeding 4 years.
(b) Status of Facilities Under Construction:
The plan required under subsection (a) shall include
a status report for each uncompleted construction
project included in current and previous plans. The
status report shall include data on cumulative construction
costs by project compared with estimated costs, and
shall compare the current and original schedules for
achievement of milestones for the major phases of
the construction.
SEC. 202. ADMINISTRATIVE AMENDMENTS.
(a) National Science Foundation Act of 1950
Amendments: The National Science
Foundation Act of 1950 (42 U.S.C. 1861 et seq.) is
amended--
(1) in section 4(g) (42 U.S.C. 1863(g))--
(A) by striking `the appropriate rate provided for
individuals in grade GS-18 of the General Schedule
under section 5332' and inserting `the maximum rate
payable under section 5376'; and
(B) by redesignating the second subsection (k) as
subsection (l);
(2) in section 5(e) (42 U.S.C. 1864(e)) by striking
paragraph (2), and inserting the following:
`(2) Any delegation of authority or imposition of
conditions under paragraph (1) shall be promptly published
in the Federal Register and reported to the Committee
on Labor and Human Resources, and the Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation, of the Senate
and the Committee on Science of the House of Representatives.';
(3) in section 14(c) (42 U.S.C. 1873(c))--
(A) by striking `shall receive' and inserting `shall
be entitled to receive';
(B) by striking `the rate specified for the daily
rate for GS-18 of the General Schedule under section
5332' and inserting `the maximum rate payable under
section 5376'; and
(C) by adding at the end the following: `For the purposes
of determining the payment of compensation under this
subsection, the time spent in travel by any member
of the Board or any member of a special commission
shall be deemed as time engaged in the business of
the Foundation. Members of the Board and members of
special commissions may waive compensation and reimbursement
for traveling expenses.'; and
(4) in section 15(a) (42 U.S.C. 1874(a)), by striking
`Atomic Energy Commission' and inserting `Secretary
of Energy'.
(b) National Science Foundation Authorization
Act, 1976 Amendments: Section
6(a) of the National Science Foundation Authorization
Act, 1976 (42 U.S.C. 1881a(a)) is amended by striking
`social,' the first place it appears.
(c) National Science Foundation Authorization
Act of 1988 Amendments:
Section 117(a) of the National Science Foundation
Authorization Act of 1988 (42 U.S.C. 1881b(a)) is
amended--
(1) by striking paragraph (1)(B)(v) and inserting
the following:
`(v) from schools established outside the several
States and the District of Columbia by any agency
of the Federal Government for dependents of the employees
of such agency.'; and
(2) in paragraph (3)(A) by striking `Science and Engineering
Education' and inserting `Education and Human Resources'.
(d) Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities
Act Amendments: The Science and Engineering
Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885 et seq.) is
amended--
(1) in section 34 (42 U.S.C. 1885b)--
(A) by striking the section heading and inserting
the following:
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'participation in science and engineering of minorities
and persons with disabilities';
and
(B) by striking subsection (b) and inserting the following:
`(b) The Foundation is authorized to undertake or
support programs and activities to encourage the participation
of persons with disabilities in the science and engineering
professions.'; and
(2) in section 36 (42 U.S.C. 1885c)--
(A) in subsection (a), by striking `minorities,' and
all that follows through `in scientific' and inserting
`minorities, and persons with disabilities in scientific';
(B) in subsection (b)--
(i) by striking `with the concurrence of the National
Science Board'; and
(ii) by striking the second sentence and inserting
the following: `In addition, the Chairman of the National
Science Board may designate a member of the Board
as a member of the Committee.';
(C) by striking subsections (c) and (d);
(D) by inserting after subsection (b) the following:
`(c) The Committee shall be responsible for reviewing
and evaluating all Foundation matters relating to
opportunities for the participation in, and the advancement
of, women, minorities, and persons with disabilities
in education, training, and science and engineering
research programs.';
(E) by redesignating subsections (e) and (f) as subsections
(d) and (e), respectively; and
(F) in subsection (d), as so redesignated by subparagraph
(E), by striking `additional'.
(e) Technical Amendment: The second
subsection (g) of section 3 of the National Science
Foundation Act of 1950 is repealed.
SEC. 203. INDIRECT COSTS.
(a) Matching Funds: Matching funds
required pursuant to section 204(a)(2)(C) of the Academic
Research Facilities Modernization Act of 1988 (42
U.S.C. 1862c(a)(2)(C)) shall not be considered facilities
costs for purposes of determining indirect cost rates
under Office of Management and Budget Circular A-21.
(b) Report:
(1) In general: The Director of the
Office of Science and Technology Policy, in consultation
with other Federal agencies the Director deems appropriate,
shall prepare a report--
(A) analyzing the Federal indirect cost reimbursement
rates (as the term is defined in Office of Management
and Budget Circular A-21) paid to universities in
comparison with Federal indirect cost reimbursement
rates paid to other entities, such as industry, government
laboratories, research hospitals, and nonprofit institutions;
(B)(i) analyzing the distribution of the Federal indirect
cost reimbursement rates by category (such as administration,
facilities, utilities, and libraries), and by the
type of entity; and
(ii) determining what factors, including the type
of research, influence the distribution;
(C) analyzing the impact, if any, that changes in
Office of Management and Budget Circular A-21 have
had on--
(i) the Federal indirect cost reimbursement rates,
the rate of change of the Federal indirect cost reimbursement
rates, the distribution by category of the Federal
indirect cost reimbursement rates, and the distribution
by type of entity of the Federal indirect cost reimbursement
rates; and
(ii) the Federal indirect cost reimbursement (as calculated
in accordance with Office of Management and Budget
Circular A-21), the rate of change of the Federal
indirect cost reimbursement, the distribution by category
of the Federal indirect cost reimbursement, and the
distribution by type of entity of the Federal indirect
cost reimbursement;
(D) analyzing the impact, if any, of Federal and State
law on the Federal indirect cost reimbursement rates;
(E)(i) analyzing options to reduce or control the
rate of growth of the Federal indirect cost reimbursement
rates, including options such as benchmarking of facilities
and equipment cost, elimination of cost studies, mandated
percentage reductions in the Federal indirect cost
reimbursement; and
(ii) assessing the benefits and burdens of the options
to the Federal Government, research institutions,
and researchers; and
(F) analyzing options for creating a database--
(i) for tracking the Federal indirect cost reimbursement
rates and the Federal indirect cost reimbursement;
and
(ii) for analyzing the impact that changes in policies
with respect to Federal indirect cost reimbursement
will have on the Federal Government, researchers,
and research institutions.
(2) Report to congress: The report
prepared under paragraph (1) shall be submitted to
Congress not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
of this Act.
SEC. 204. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.
Persons temporarily employed by or at the Foundation
shall be subject to the same financial disclosure
requirements and related sanctions under the Ethics
in Government Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. App.) as are permanent
employees of the Foundation in equivalent positions.
SEC. 205. NOTICE.
(a) Notice of Reprogramming: If any
funds appropriated pursuant to the amendments made
by this Act are subject to a reprogramming action
that requires notice to be provided to the Committees
on Appropriations of the Senate and the House of Representatives,
notice of that action shall concurrently be provided
to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation
of the Senate, the Committee on Labor and Human Resources
of the Senate, and the Committee on Science of the
House of Representatives.
(b) Notice of Reorganization: Not
later than 15 days before any major reorganization
of any program, project, or activity of the National
Science Foundation, the Director of the National Science
Foundation shall provide notice to the Committees
on Science and Appropriations of the House of Representatives
and the Committees on Commerce, Science and Transportation,
Labor and Human Resources of the Senate, and Appropriations
of the Senate.
SEC. 206. ENHANCEMENT OF SCIENCE AND MATHEMATICS PROGRAMS.
(a) Definitions: In this section:
(1) Educationally useful federal equipment:
The term `educationally useful Federal equipment'
means computers and related peripheral tools and research
equipment that is appropriate for use in schools.
(2) School: The term `school' means
a public or private educational institution that serves
any of the grades of kindergarten through grade 12.
(b) Sense of Congress:
(1) In general: It is the sense of
the Congress that the Director should, to the greatest
extent practicable and in a manner consistent with
applicable Federal law (including Executive Order
No. 12999), donate educationally useful Federal equipment
to schools in order to enhance the science and mathematics
programs of those schools.
(2) Reports:
(A) In general: Not later than 1
year after the date of enactment of this Act, and
annually thereafter, the Director shall prepare and
submit to the President a report that meets the requirements
of this paragraph. The President shall submit that
report to Congress at the same time as the President
submits a budget request to Congress under section
1105(a) of title 31, United States Code.
(B) Contents of report: The report
prepared by the Director under this paragraph shall
describe any donations of educationally useful Federal
equipment to schools made during the period covered
by the report.
SEC. 207. REPORT ON RESERVIST EDUCATION ISSUES.
(a) Convening Appropriate Representatives:
The Director of the National Science Foundation, with
the assistance of the Office of Science and Technology
Policy, shall convene appropriate officials of the
Federal Government and appropriate representatives
of the postsecondary education community and of members
of reserve components of the Armed Forces for the
purpose of discussing and seeking a consensus on the
appropriate resolution to problems relating to the
academic standing and financial responsibilities of
postsecondary students called or ordered to active
duty in the Armed Forces.
(b) Report to Congress: Not later
than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this
Act, the Director of the National Science Foundation
shall transmit to the Congress a report summarizing
the results of the convening individuals under subsection
(a), including any consensus recommendations resulting
therefrom as well as any significant opinions expressed
by each participant that are not incorporated in such
a consensus recommendation.
SEC. 208. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY INSTITUTE.
(a) Amendment: Section 822 of the
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year
1991 (42 U.S.C. 6686) is amended--
(1) by striking `Critical Technologies Institute'
in the section heading and in subsection (a), and
inserting in lieu thereof `Science and Technology
Policy Institute';
(2) in subsection (b) by striking `As determined by
the chairman of the committee referred to in subsection
(c), the' and inserting in lieu thereof `The';
(3) by striking subsection (c), and redesignating
subsections (d), (e), (f), and (g) as subsections
(c), (d), (e), and (f), respectively;
(4) in subsection (c), as so redesignated by paragraph
(3) of this subsection--
(A) by inserting `science and' after `developments
and trends in' in paragraph (1);
(B) by striking `with particular emphasis on' in paragraph
(1) and inserting `including';
(C) by inserting `and developing and maintaining relevant
informational and analytical tools' before the period
at the end of paragraph (1);
(D) by striking `to determine' and all that follows
through `technology policies' in paragraph (2) and
inserting `with particular attention to the scope
and content of the Federal science and technology
research and development portfolio as it affects interagency
and national issues';
(E) by amending paragraph (3) to read as follows:
`(3) Initiation of studies and analysis of alternatives
available for ensuring the long-term strength of the
United States in the development and application of
science and technology, including appropriate roles
for the Federal Government, State governments, private
industry, and institutions of higher education in
the development and application of science and technology.';
(F) by inserting `science and' after `Executive branch
on' in paragraph (4)(A); and
(G) by amending paragraph (4)(B) to read as follows:
(B) to the interagency committees and panels of the
Federal Government concerned with science and technology.';
(5) by striking `subsection (d)' in subsection (d),
as redesignated by paragraph (3) of this subsection,
and inserting in lieu thereof `subsection (c)';
(6) by striking `Committee' in each place it appears
in subsection (e), as redesignated by paragraph (3)
of this subsection, and inserting `Institute';
(7) by striking `subsection (d)' in subsection (f),
as redesignated by paragraph (3) of this subsection,
and inserting in lieu thereof `subsection (c)'; and
(8) by striking `Chairman of Committee' each place
it appears in subsection (f), as designated by paragraph
(3) of this subsection, and inserting `Director of
Office of Science and Technology Policy'.
(b) Conforming Usage: All references
in Federal law or regulations to the Critical Technologies
Institute shall be considered to be references to
the Science and Technology Policy Institute.
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SEC. 209. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON THE YEAR 2000 PROBLEM.
With the year 2000 fast approaching, it is the sense
of Congress that the Foundation should--
(1) give high priority to correcting all 2-digit date-related
problems in its computer systems to ensure that those
systems continue to operate effectively in the year
2000 and beyond;
(2) assess immediately the extent of the risk to the
operations of the Foundation posed by the problems
referred to in paragraph (1), and plan and budget
for achieving Year 2000 compliance for all of its
mission-critical systems; and
(3) develop contingency plans for those systems that
the Foundation is unable to correct in time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the
gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Sensenbrenner)
and the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Eddie
Bernice Johnson) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr.
Sensenbrenner).
(Mr. Sensenbrenner asked and was given permission to
revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such
time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1273, the National Science Foundation
Authorization Act of 1998 and 1999, authorizes the
Foundation's programs for fiscal years 1998, 1999,
and 2000. This is a noncontroversial bill that was
favorably reported by voice vote by the Committee
on Science on April 16, 1997, and later passed the
full House under suspension of the rules on April
24, 1997. The present version of H.R. 1273 is the
product of negotiations with the Senate, which passed
the bill on a vote of 99-0 on May 12, 1998.
The National Science Foundation provides funding to
over 19,000 research and education projects in science
and engineering annually. It does this through competitive
grants and cooperative agreements to more than 2,000
colleges, universities, K-12 schools, businesses,
and other research institutions in all parts of the
United States. Although the Foundation's budget represents
only 4 percent of Federal research and development
funding, the Foundation accounts for more than 25
percent of Federal support to academic institutions
for basic research.
This 3-year authorization improves our investment in
America by strengthening our commitment to basic research.
It authorizes $3.5 billion for fiscal year 1998, $3.8
billion for fiscal year 1999, and nearly $3.9 billion
for fiscal year 2000. The bill received bipartisan
support in the Committee on Science and demonstrates
the Committee's belief that the support of basic research
will help America maintain its lead in cutting-edge
science and engineering. It is the kinds of research
that the NSF funds through which we will make the
fundamental discoveries which will become the economic
drivers of the 21st century.
The Research and Related Activities account is NSF's
primary account and provides the resources for a broad
portfolio of science and engineering activities. For
fiscal year 1999, H.R. 1273 provides for $2.57 billion
for this account, a 10-percent increase over 1998.
For fiscal year 2000, the bill provides a further
$2.9 billion.
This legislation also follows through on the Committee
on Science's commitment to improve math and science
education. H.R. 1273 authorizes $632 million for Fiscal
Year 1998, $683 million for Fiscal Year 1999, and
$703 million for Fiscal Year 2000 for NSF's Education
and Human Resources Directorate, which funds education
programs. To hold down administrative costs, the bill
holds the salaries and expense account of NSF to approximately
2 percent growth in Fiscal Years 1998, 1999, and 2000.
I want to take a moment to thank the acting chairman
of the Subcommittee on Basic Research, the gentleman
from Mississippi (Mr. Pickering);
the former ranking minority member of the subcommittee,
the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Barcia);
and the current ranking minority member, the gentlewoman
from Texas (Ms. Eddie Bernice Johnson);
and the ranking minority member of the full committee,
the gentleman from California (Mr. Brown),
for their efforts and support in crafting a truly
bipartisan bill.
Before closing, I would like to express my appreciation
and respect for all the hard work performed on this
bill by the late former chairman of the Subcommittee
on Basic Research, Congressman Steve Schiff, who passed
away earlier this year.
H.R. 1273 is the product of Mr. Schiff's dedication
to improving America's scientific and technological
prowess. Steve was a true patriot who served our country
both as an elected official and as a member of the
Armed Forces. As this bill demonstrates, Steve Schiff
was also an excellent legislator. The Committee on
Science and the whole Congress will miss his intelligence,
wit, and his diligence.
I believe that H.R. 1237 is an outstanding bill and
urge all Members on both sides of the aisle to support
it.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I
yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1273, which
authorizes the programs of the National Science Foundation
through Fiscal Year 2000.
Mr. Speaker, the National Science Foundation is the
only Federal agency with the sole mission to support
basic research and engineering research and education
in the Nation's schools, colleges, and universities.
It signals strong support for the key role of the
Foundation in developing and sustaining the academic
research enterprise of the Nation. It is consistent
with the importance of scientific and engineering
research and education as a public investment that
contributes to the Nation's economic strength and
to the well-being of our citizens.
The National Science Foundation programs support research
in science and engineering, the operation of national
research facilities, the acquisition of state-of-the-art
scientific instruments, and science education at all
levels of instruction. These wide-ranging activities
underpin the technological strength of the Nation
through both the generation of new knowledge and the
education of scientists and engineers. Moreover, through
its initiatives in K-12 science education, the National
Science Foundation contributes to the important goal
of improving the level of science literacy for all
citizens.
In light of the National Science Foundation's important
role, I am pleased that H.R. 1273 endorses the President's
request for a 10-percent budget increase for Fiscal
Year 1999 and growth above inflation for Fiscal Year
2000. This funding level would provide real growth
for sustaining the Foundation's core research activities
in the major science and engineering disciplines which
support individual investigators and interdisciplinary
research teams.
In addition, H.R. 1273 will allow the Foundation to
pursue new initiatives in such areas as knowledge
and distributed intelligence and the complex interdependencies
among living organisms and the environments that affect
and are affected by them.
In terms of sustaining the human resource base for
research in the Nation's colleges and universities,
H.R. 1273 will provide support for nearly 27,000 senior
scientists, 5,500 postdoctoral researchers, and over
21,000 graduate students.
Mr. Speaker, the research investments made by the Foundation
generate the new knowledge that fuels the Nation's
technological innovation and, consequently, our economic
strength of the future. I would like to describe some
recent examples that show the breadth and potential
technological value of results from the Foundation's
sponsored research.
The Foundation-supported scientists are participating
in the sequencing of the genome for a model flowering
plant. A coordinated network of databases has been
established to facilitate study of the sequence information.
Discoveries to date have included understanding of
how to reduce polyunsaturation in seed oils and how
to produce biodegradable plastic in crop plants.
Researchers at MIT recently created the first atomic
laser, a device that creates coherence among atoms,
much like the photons in a light laser. This allows
the control group of atoms which can be focused to
a point or moved over large distances without spreading
out. Atomic lasers may one day be used to fabricate
extremely small electronic components that will form
the basis for highly efficient navigation and communication
devices.
Forecasting techniques for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms
currently can provide only 30 minutes' warning. Researchers
at the University of the Oklahoma have now developed
a computer model that has for the first time successfully
predicted the location and structure of individual
storms up to 6 hours in advance before the storms
had begun to form. This forecasting tool has great
promise for providing protection for lives and families.
National Science Foundation support for a wide range
of research has led to new ways to exploit the physical,
chemical, and biological properties of small groups
of molecules. The discovery of novel phenomena and
processes at this so-called `nano' scale have led
to minuscule transistors that use less energy; tiny
medical probes that will not damage tissue; improved
computer disk-drive heads to boost data storage density;
and new ceramic, polymer and other materials with
special properties.
In addition to supporting basic research, the National
Science Foundation's programs help to educate the
next generation of scientists, engineers and technicians,
and improve science education for all K-12 students.
These outcomes are achieved through a wide range of
activities, including graduate student support, research
experiences for undergraduates, development of curricular
materials for science courses at all levels of instruction,
development of educational applications of computer
and communication technologies, and in-service training
for K-12 teachers.
The goals of the Foundation's effort to heighten the
achievement of all students in science and math are
particularly important. The approach now being emphasized
has been through partnerships that the Foundation
has instituted with States and local school systems
to reform math and science instruction and to provide
opportunities for professional development of teachers.
I believe that the National Science Foundation Urban
Systemic Initiative is particularly important in that
it focuses on inner city school systems, which often
have low levels of student performance in science
and math.
Finally, the bill provides for several national research
facility construction projects. In accordance with
the recommendation of a distinguished panel of experts
that review the facilities needs of the U.S. Antarctic
Program, it authorizes the replacement of South Pole
Station and needed upgrades at other Antarctic stations.
These facility upgrades are needed to ensure that
U.S. facilities in Antarctica are capable of supporting
the most advanced research and can provide adequate
safety for the scientists and support staff who must
function in this hostile environment.
H.R. 1237 will provide funding to complete other research
facility construction projects and to initiate new
projects, including the Polar Cap Observatory and
detectors for the Large Hadron Collider. The bill
also puts in place new reporting requirements to improve
congressional oversight of such construction projects.
I want to acknowledge the role of our former colleague,
the late Representative Steve Schiff, the former chairman
of the Subcommittee on Basic Research, for his efforts
during the first session of this Congress to develop
H.R. 1273 in a spirit of cooperation. And I also want
to commend the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Sensenbrenner),
the chairman of the Committee on Science; and the
gentleman from California (Mr. Brown),
the ranking Democratic Member, for their leadership
in this important legislation.
Mr. Speaker, I fully support H.R. 1273 and urge its
approval by the House.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
[Page: H5421]
Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 6 minutes to
the distinguished gentleman from Mississippi (Mr.
Pickering), who is the acting chair
of the Subcommittee on Basic Research.
Mr. PICKERING. Mr. Speaker, I want to commend the leadership
and work of the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Sensenbrenner)
on this very important legislation. I rise to say
a few words in support of H.R. 1273, the National
Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1998.
Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1273 authorizes the Foundation's
programs for Fiscal Years 1998, 1999, and 2000. It
authorizes over $11 billion for fundamental scientific
research over the next 3 years.
[TIME: 1430]
It is a bipartisan bill, and I urge all of the Members
to support it.
For the past few months I have had the privilege of
serving as the acting chairman for the Committee on
Science's Subcommittee on Basic Research. It has been
a tremendous experience, but I cannot take credit
for this bill. This is Steve Schiff's authorization
bill.
Mr. Speaker, I learned a great deal from the chairman
of our subcommittee, and I think many of Steve Schiff's
priorities can be seen in H.R. 1273. I just wanted
to take a moment to recognize Congressman Schiff for
the work he did and, more importantly, for the values
for which he stood. I would also like to thank our
chairman, the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Sensenbrenner)
again for giving me the opportunity of leading the
subcommittee as its acting chairman.
In April of this year at a subcommittee hearing the
Director of the National Science Foundation stated
that 50 percent of our country's economic growth in
the last 50 years has come from technological innovation
and the science that supports it. That is why we fund
the National Science Foundation. We understand that
our Nation's economic strength 25 years from now depends
on our support for science and technology today.
The strong bipartisan support for H.R. 1273 demonstrates
that this Congress understands and respects the role
of the scientist in our society. We may not see them
in action, but whether it is the growth of the Internet
or the latest medical breakthrough, we see the results.
In my home State of Mississippi NSF has played an important
role in the development of remote sensing in developing
the next generation Internet and that our three supercomputing
research centers through NSF's EPSCoR Program, the
Mississippi Research Consortium, made up of the University
of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, Jackson
State University and the University of Southern Mississippi
has done great work in areas as diverse as manufacturing
polymers, to producing new technology for agricultural
products, to cutting edge areas such as artificial
intelligence. Again, we may not see the scientists
in action, but eventually we see their results in
our daily lives.
Through this bill and through the scientific research
and science education program supported by the NSF,
we demonstrate our commitment to advancing science
and improving science and math education not just
in theory, but in the classroom. We show our commitment
to using biology and chemistry not only to improve
our own lives, but also to improve our understanding
of the world around us as we show our commitment to
the next generation of Americans by assuring that
our children will enjoy the economic prosperity that
is produced by long-term dedication to science.
Mr. Speaker, the National Science Foundation does great
work. This is an excellent bill, and I urge all Members
to support it.
[Page: H5422]
Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I
yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from North Carolina
(Mr. Price).
Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank the
gentlewoman from Texas for yielding this time to me.
Mr. Speaker, I want to express my enthusiastic support
for the legislation before us today. The National
Science Foundation is our main agency for strengthening
our country in science and mathematics and technology,
from investing in the training of teachers in math
and science, to promoting outreach programs at our
museums and supporting path-breaking research at our
colleges and universities.
The impact of the National Science Foundation is particularly
evident in my district in North Carolina. In the last
fiscal year more than 350 NSF-sponsored grants were
awarded to residents of the Research Triangle counties
of North Carolina. Duke, North Carolina and North
Carolina State Universities each received more than
$11 million for their researchers, and together they
were awarded $44 million for projects selected on
their merits, for their scientific excellence and
for their contribution to the national interest.
The National Science Foundation, for example, has helped
fund Duke University research at Cape Hatteras on
North Carolina's Outer Banks, has helped fund new
laser-scanning technology at the University of North
Carolina, and has supported a program widening educational
opportunities for rural middle school students in
conjunction with North Carolina State University.
I am also particularly proud that the Advanced Technological
Education Program, a program launched through legislation
that I initiated 6 years ago, is included in this
legislation. The Advanced Technological Education
Program has allowed NSF to become more involved with
the community colleges in our country, helping our
2-year schools improve their science and math and
technology education programs.
ATE creates a partnership between NSF and the community
colleges similar to the one that has long been available
to 4-year institutions, to develop improved curricula
and teaching methods and to upgrade this country's
advanced technology training programs, training at
the level most of our new good jobs require.
As our country's educational needs continue to evolve,
the role of 2-year institutions will increase. Quick
training and retooling of our work force will be vital
as we move toward a competitive global economy, and
the ATE program will help ensure that our educational
institutions and our students can meet this challenge.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.
Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I
yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr.
Brown) our distinguished ranking
member of the full committee.
(Mr. BROWN of California asked and was given permission
to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. BROWN of California. Mr. Speaker, I will not take
5 minutes, but I do wish to make a brief statement
that will hopefully supplement the already excellent
statements made by all of my colleagues on both sides
of the aisle. I would point out that the National
Science Foundation with its programs for support of
basic research and education and science and engineering
has long enjoyed the bipartisan support of Congress.
This bill, by providing for continued growth will
help ensure that the Foundation can continue to fulfill
that role.
TRIBUTE TO DR. NEAL LANE
- Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to
recognize the contributions of the outgoing NSF
Director, Dr. Neal Lane. Dr. Lane, who has served
as director since 1993, will soon leave to become
the President's science advisor and head of the
Office of Science and Technology Policy.
- During his tenure at NSF, Dr. Lane has provided
strong leadership and has made noteworthy contributions
to the Foundation's effectiveness. He has worked
to improve the process by which priorities are
established for NSF's major activities and to
identify promising cross-disciplinary research
programs. In addition, he has maintained a wide
ranging portfolio of programs to strengthen science
and engineering education in the Nation's schools
and institutions of higher education.
- Dr. Lane recognized early on how the new computer
and information-driven world would enable new
ways to conduct research and would establish new
skill requirements for the future workforce. The
Knowledge and Distributed Intelligence initiative
launched under his stewardship will lead to Foundation-wide
activities focused on improving ways to discover,
collect, represent, transmit, and apply information.
- Similarly, Dr. Lane applied information technology
to streamline the internal operations of NSF itself.
He led the reengineering of the major business
transactions between NSF and the research community,
replacing paper-based processes with simpler,
more efficient electronic transactions using the
Internet. Today, more than 80 percent of all NSF
funding is accomplished by electronic means.
- Also, Dr. Lane is to be commended for assuming
the role of a vocal champion for U.S. leadership
in science and engineering research and for his
efforts in challenging the research community
to see its responsibilities in the larger context
of societal values and needs. He has encouraged
scientists and engineers to communicate more effectively
with the public, which will help to make science
more accessible to everyone.
- Dr. Lane has left a lasting imprint at NSF, and
he will be missed. I wish him well as he assumes
his new responsibilities in the White House for
the Nation's research and development enterprise.
Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to
the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Sanford).
Mr. SANFORD. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from
Wisconsin for yielding this time to me.
I rise not so much in opposition to this authorization,
but frankly against the appropriation which will come
later this week, because it seems to me that last
year on this House floor, when the gentleman from
California (Mr. Lewis) and the gentleman
from Missouri (Mr. Clay) offered
an amendment to cut $174,000 out of the bill which
at that time would have studied the reasons people
do not run for elected office, of which I assume there
are many. Basically what they are trying to signal
to the Science Foundation was that we need a tighter
grip on the way they spend money; that when people
back home think about spending a dollar, they really
run through a lot of priorities, and they run through
a lot of interests that they have before they decide
on actually spending that dollar, and that this organization
ought to do the same. And so I rise to, in essence,
follow up on what they tried to do last year in sending
a message on the importance of sharpening a pencil,
because when I look at the grants that have come since
then, and there are a list of several that have come
since then; I look here at, as my colleagues know,
$210,000 to study ATMs, I look at $17,000 to study
interactive video-on-demand services for popular videos,
I look at $220,000 to look at why women smile more
than men, and I guess there are many reasons there.
As my colleagues know, $193,000 to study collaborative
activity on poker, or $147,000, and I cannot quite
figure out what this means, but to study how globalization
has transformed legal consciousness and personal injury
in Thailand, or $334,000 to study methods for routing
pick-up and delivery vehicles in real time, or finally,
$12,000 to study cheap talk.
I look at again a little bit more in the way of pencil
sharpening that it seems to me that needs to be done,
that we do have a duty, if my colleagues will, to
authorize the study of basic sciences in this country,
but we also have a duty to watch out for the taxpayer,
and that is why later in this week I will be offering
an amendment in the appropriations bill to tighten
the pencil a little bit because it seems to me that
some of this at minimum could be done by the private
sector.
Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I
yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Michigan (Ms.
Stabenow).
Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure today
to rise in strong support of this authorization bill
for the National Science Foundation, to commend the
Chair and ranking members of the committee and the
subcommittee for their very, very important work.
I cannot think of a more important subject for the
Federal Government to be involved in than basic research
and the development of technology for the future as
it relates to jobs, our ability to compete in a world
economy. The kinds of focuses by the National Science
Foundation are critical to the quality of life of
my constituents and all of the families of America.
I commend them for their work.
Mr. Speaker, I commend universities in my district:
the Michigan State University efforts, University
of Michigan research efforts, that were continually
in partnership with NSF to promote the quality of
life through research that we need to be promoting
across this country.
It is also important, as we all know, to focus on our
future scientists by promoting quality math and science
education, encouraging both boys and girls to be focused
and to pick math and science education as future endeavors.
As part of that, it is important that we make sure
our schools are equipped with technology and the research
equipment that they need so that we can excite young
people about science and involve them in the future
of math and science, and I want to particularly point
out to my colleagues a section of the bill that I
think is important in making sure our schools have
that kind of equipment and the kind of computers that
they need.
[Page: H5423]
[TIME: 1445]
I am very pleased to commend the committee for putting
into the bill section 206, which provides an encouragement
to NSF to donate surplus computers and research equipment
to our schools.
I would just speak to the fact that I have been involved
in the last year and a half in providing wiring through
the Internet. We have wired almost 50 schools in my
district through volunteer efforts to the Internet,
and we have seen one school in my district, Lansing
Sexton High School, that has benefited directly from
this kind of a donation from the Federal Government.
The EPA provided enough computers, and very high-quality
computers, to Lansing Sexton to equip an entire computer
lab. We now have young people, with wiring done through
our Net Day and the computers donated through EPA,
who are able to work on sophisticated equipment and
be learning more about math and science and technology
as a result of that partnership.
I would encourage NSF as we pass this authorization
to work with us to provide that kind of equipment
to our schools as we look for ways to join together
to encourage math and science education for the future
and make sure that our children have the kind of technology
that they need in the classroom to be prepared.
This bill is about basic research, it is about developing
technology, it is about at the same time a focus on
our future children and developing the skills in math
and science that are so critical. I commend the committee
and urge its adoption.
Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I
yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms.
Jackson-Lee).
(Ms. JACKSON-LEE asked and was given permission to
revise and extend her remarks.)
Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I, too, would
like to thank the committee and as well thank Dr.
Lane for his outstanding leadership of the National
Science Foundation and to congratulate him as he embarks
on his new opportunity as adviser to the President
on science.
I also rise in support of this bill, which authorizes
funds for the National Science Foundation through
the year 2000. The National Science Foundation provides
this Nation with the tools to remain a superpower
in a world where technology remains supreme. It helps
develop new technologies, not only on its own, but
also through its partnerships with other government
agencies, like NASA, and as well educational institutions
and private institutions. I am likewise proud of my
locally-based institutions, like the University of
Houston, the Texas Medical Center, Texas Southern
University, Houston Baptist College, the Houston Community
College, Rice University, and many, many others that
have embellished and bolstered their own science interests
and activity.
Additionally, let me acknowledge Dr. Joshua Hill of
Texas Southern University, who, as we speak, is conducting
a science program with high school students.
The National Science Foundation is largely responsible
for many of the scientific breakthroughs that we currently
enjoy in this country. In fact, many of our more important
scientific achievements started with either an experiment
in an NSF lab or with an NSF grant to a university
or a private corporation.
When this bill was in markup, I am very delighted that
my colleagues joined me as I amended this particular
legislation to provide for a provision which asked
the Federal Government to do what it can to help educate
our children. Section 206 is a simple process, but
through this simple act it encourages the NSF to donate
used computer research equipment to needy school children.
I can assure you that many around this country are
anxiously waiting for this legislation to pass so
this wonderful partnership can be established.
I feel it is a simple solution to a complex problem,
the underdevelopment of our public school computer
and technology infrastructure. We cannot expect our
children to be prepared for the next millennium if
we do not have the right equipment to learn on.
Mr. Speaker, trying to teach children computer science
without the benefit of a computer is like trying to
teach English to children with the benefit of vocabulary
or books. We must do our part to ensure that our children
have the opportunity to learn, especially in the areas
of math and science.
This year in the House Committee on Science we have
heard a myriad of testimony during such hearings regarding
the undereducation of our children in the hard sciences.
In fact, it has been disappointing that we have not
gotten our hands around that issue, and we must, in
order to be competitive, work on getting our children
to that competitive level.
It has gotten to the point that the media fails to
report scientific breakthroughs, and we discussed
that, not because of lack of public interest, but
often because they feel that the general public will
not understand the scientific achievement and what
it means to them. This I think is something we cannot
stand for, Mr. Speaker, and I would hope that this
Congress would very quickly and efficiently pass this
legislation and move our children along to the 21st
Century.
Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak on behalf of this bill,
which authorized funds for the National Science Foundation
through the year 2000.
The National Science Foundation (NSF) provides this
Nation with the tools to remain a superpower in a
world where technology remains supreme. It helps develop
new technologies, not only on its own, but also through
its partnerships wit other government agencies, like
NASA, and with private institutions.
The NSF is largely responsible for many of the scientific
breakthroughs that we currently enjoy in this country.
In fact, many of our more important scientific achievements
stared either with an experiment in a NSF lab, or
with a NSF grant to a university or private corporation.
When this bill was in markup, I was able to amend it
to include a provision which asks the Federal government
to do what it can to help educate our children. In
this case, through the simple act of donating used
computer and research equipment to needy schoolchildren.
I feel it is a simple solution to a complex problem,
the under-development of our public school computer
and technology infrastructure. We cannot expect our
children to be prepared for the next millennium if
they do not have the right equipment to learn on.
Ladies and gentlemen, trying to teach children computer
science without the benefit of a computer is like
trying to teach English to children without books--utterly
impossible.
We must do our part to ensure that our children have
the opportunity to learn, especially in the areas
of math in science. This year in the House Science
Committee, we have heard a myriad of testimony during
hearings regarding the under-education of our youth
in the hard science. It has gotten to the point that
the media fails to report scientific breakthroughs,
not because of lack of public interest, but often
because they do not feel that the general public will
understand the scientific achievement and what it
means to them. That is shameful. If this Nation intends
to remain a world leader, we must do out part to educate
our children in the ways of the future.
Here in Congress, we have worked long and hard to rectify
this problem. We have sought to increase funding for
education. We have tried to provide targeted discounts
to schools and libraries so that they can get on the
Internet. Those initiatives are controversial, but
his provision is not. Its costs are low, and its benefits
high. In short, this is `good legislation'.
I encourage you all to vote for this authorization,
and invest in our future generations.
[Page: H5424]
Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests
for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the motion
offered by the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Sensenbrenner)
that the House suspend the rules and concur in the
Senate amendment to H.R. 1273.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds having voted
in favor thereof) the rules were suspended and the
Senate amendment was concurred in.
A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
END
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