Press Statement - July 18, 1997

Media contact:

Mary Hanson

(703) 306-1070

mhanson@nsf.gov

Statement by Dr. Neal Lane
Director, National Science Foundation

On NSF FY98 Budget Mark-Up by Senate Subcommittee

The Senate VA, HUD and Independent Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee this week reinforced its support of NSF by recommending a 3.3% budget increase ($10 million more than requested) for NSF for FY98. It is gratifying to note that, even in a climate requiring close scrutiny of every budget expenditure, the subcommittee considers science and engineering research and education to be a necessary investment in the nation's future. I appreciate very much the overall support of the subcommittee.

I also note the emphasis that the subcommittee has placed on plant genome research, which has been and remains an important area of research for NSF and for other agencies. During FY96, NSF committed about $20 million toward this research area, and continues to support high quality research in this area in the current year as well. Recognizing its importance, an interagency working group has also been reviewing additional research opportunities in this area and the funding that would be needed to take advantage of them. As the agency responsible for across-the-board health of science and engineering research and education nationally, NSF must carefully balance its financial commitments across many fields of science and engineering. In the light of both the subcommittee's recommended funding level ($40 million) and the findings of the interagency committee, I look forward to discussing this concern with House and Senate conferees as this bill moves forward through the process.