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Science Issues in Congress
Position Statements & Letters
Current Policy News
Current Issues
Of the many policy issues being addressed in the U.S. Congress, one area that affects the lives of every American is science. Advancements in scientific research and development provide better health care, a more secure homeland and defense system, advanced technologies in transportation, medicine, military capabilities and energy efficiency.
Many of these advancements would not be possible without federal research & development (R&D) funding. Increased funding for math and science education ensures students receive the best education possible. OSA monitors actions of Congress on issues of interest to the scientific community, such as:
Innovation
OSA supports the fundamental issues addressed by the American Competitiveness Initiative. ACI calls for increased emphasis on R&D to spur future technological and scientific breakthroughs. OSA also supports legislation designed to enhance scientific R&D.
Research & Development Funding
OSA believes a robust scientific enterprise benefits economic development and well-being. OSA, therefore, supports increased federal funding of science, math, engineering and technology basic and applied research and development across all federal agencies, particularly optics and photonics research and development.
Funding for Math and Science Education
OSA supports increased funding for K-16 science, math and engineering technology education. OSA recognizes that the future of science rests with today’s children.
Evolution
OSA supports efforts that advocate for the teaching of evolution in public schools. OSA believes presenting alternative proposals related to the development of species, such as creationism or “intelligent design,” is not appropriate as part of the science curriculum for schools.
Visa Issues for Travel
OSA supports efforts to call on the U.S. Departments of State and Homeland Security to fix visa backlogs and expedite visa processes for individuals intending to travel to the United States. OSA is specifically concerned with the ability of international scientists and scholars to visit the U.S.
Position Statements and Letters
Below are some recent position statements and letters regarding current policy issues outlined above:
Position Statements
Letters to 110th Congress
OSA-Signed Letters
Federal Funding for Research & Development
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Education
Innovation Legislation
Congressional "Dear Colleague" Letters
Current Policy News
To keep up to date with public policy issues that impact the scientific community, check out FYI, The American Institute of Physics Bulletin of Science Policy News at www.aip.org/fyi.
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