McNerney Praises Passage Of National Science Foundation Reauthorization

Press Release

MCNERNEY PRAISES PASSAGE OF NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION REAUTHORIZATION

Tonight, Congressman Jerry McNerney (CA-11) enthusiastically supported the reauthorization of the National Science Foundation, with an amendment he proposed to extend the impact of the NSF’s grant making ability.

Coming on the heels of two bills last week to increase the number of highly qualified K-12 math and science teachers and to support young researchers, this bill contributes to a concerted effort to keep America competitive.

“I am proud today to have cast my vote for this bill, which doubles funding for the National Science Foundation,” said Rep. McNerney. “This effort will help ensure our nation’s competitiveness in the 21st Century by funding the scientific research that will lead to innovative discoveries that fuel our economy.”

The National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2007 passed the House this evening with an amendment proposed by Rep. McNerney. Rep. McNerney’s proposal will increase math and science educational opportunities for students who attend Hispanic-serving institutions.

Rep. McNerney introduced the amendment with Reps. Joseph Crowley of New York and Gabrielle Giffords of Arizona. The goal of the amendment is to address the concern raised by the National Academies’ startling Rising Above the Gathering Storm report that the U.S. runs the risk of falling behind other nations if we fail to increase minority participation in math, science, engineering and technology.

The amendment allows the National Science Foundation to establish a competitive, merit-based grant program for Hispanic-serving Institutions to enhance their programs in science, technology, engineering and math.

Leaders in education and science in the 11th District enthusiastically embraced the amendment.

“This effort will help ensure that community colleges and Hispanic-serving Institutions like San Joaquin Delta will get a fair share of the grant pie,” said Dr. Raul Rodriguez, the president of San Joaquin Delta College. “It’s important that we increase training and science, technology, engineering and math-related activities so that we can stay competitive in the job market.”

“Opportunities will be created for many as a result of this provision,” said Jose Hernandez, a mission specialist with NASA who is originally from Stockton. “And it’s wonderful that an institution like San Joaquin Delta College, which serves as a springboard for so many people in San Joaquin County, will benefit and hopefully be able to add or enhance their science and math course offerings. In order for our country to remain competitive, we need more of our young people to develop the same love for science and math that I have.”

The National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2007 passed by a margin of 399-17.

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