Department of Energy Science and Innovation Act of 2018

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. MARSHALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 5905, the Department of Energy Science and Innovation Act, sponsored by my friend and colleague Representative Weber. His bill contains the text of my bill, the Low-Dose Radiation Research Act, which unanimously passed the House this past February.

The language directs the Department of Energy to utilize $20 million to carry out a research program on low-dose radiation within the Office of Science. This program will increase our understanding of the health effects that low doses of radiation have on biological systems.

Research has consistently shown us the adverse health effects associated with high doses of radiation, but we are a long way from accurately assessing the effects of low doses of radiation. As the product of industrial activities, medical procedures, and naturally occurring systems, humans are exposed to low doses of radiation every day, and it is imperative we can accurately assess this risk.

There is broad consensus among the radiobiology community that more research is necessary for Federal agencies, physicians, and related experts to advance the use of radiation technologies. We have invaluable diagnostic tools today, such as CT scans, which emit low doses of radiation. It is vital that physicians are able to inform patients of the health risks associated with these types of imaging processes. As a physician in my home State of Kansas, I have a firsthand understanding of the crucial importance of verified research and ensuring the best medical outcomes for my patients.

I am proud to support this bill and urge my colleagues to do the same.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source