Department of Energy Research and Innovation Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. MARSHALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 589, the Department of Energy Research and Innovation Act, sponsored by my friend and the chairman of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee, Representative Smith.

This bipartisan bill advances basic research and sets explicit science priorities for the Department of Energy, which is critical for our future innovation.

H.R. 589 also authorizes the core program in my bill, the Low-Dose Radiation Research Act, which unanimously passed the House earlier this year.

The provision directs the Department of Energy to carry out a research program on low-dose radiation, which will increase our understanding of the health effects low doses 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 a 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 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 certainly have firsthand understanding of the crucial importance of verified research and ensuring the best medical outcomes for our patients.

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

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