America Competes Reauthorization Act of 2015

Floor Speech

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Mr. BEN RAY LUJÁN of New Mexico. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of this amendment that I am proud to offer with my colleagues.

I want to thank Congressman Crowley for his leadership. I want to recognize Chairman Smith for his responsibility in working and looking out for these students as well.

In today's world, science, technology, engineering, and math degrees translate into high-paying, in-demand jobs. While we are still struggling with high unemployment in my home State of New Mexico, there are sectors, especially in STEM, that are having difficulty finding qualified workers. To help meet this demand, the National Science Foundation manages a number of programs at minority-serving institutions, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Tribal Colleges and Universities.

These programs have filled an important void by preparing minority students for meaningful careers in STEM. However, there is no such program and, therefore, a lack of critical support for Hispanic Americans. This is also evident in the fact that Hispanics are severely underrepresented in the STEM workforce.

It is time that we fund the creation of a program for Hispanic-Serving Institutions to develop infrastructure, curriculum, and recruit Hispanic students into STEM fields. To do what is best for America, we need to invest and promote these programs.

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