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Washington, DC -- U.S. Rep. Ron Klein (FL-22) joined members of Congress at a press conference on Capitol Hill Tuesday to unveil the Innovation Agenda, a package of legislative proposals that will ultimately make our nation more competitive in the ever-changing global economy.
The Innovative Agenda will invest in a workforce ready for global competition through the creation of public-private partnerships. It will also make key investments in higher education, spawning a new generation of innovators, and create sustainable investments in federal research and development. Finally the package will make broadband more accessible and affordable to businesses and consumers, and encourage entrepreneurial innovation.
“It is critical that we invest in the tools and innovative technology that will allow us to continue to meet the challenges and remain competitive in our ever-changing global marketplace, and our Innovative Agenda does just that,” said Klein. “Investing in our young scientists, increasing the number of math and science teachers in our schools, and easing the ability of small businesses who are involved in the field of research and development is a common sense, novel approach to ensuring our economic leadership and global presence.
“I have long been a supporter of incentives that further scientific research. One of my proudest accomplishments in the Florida Legislature was the authoring of legislation that ultimately led Scripps Research Institute -- one of the world’s leading research institutions -- to open a facility in Palm Beach County. Scripps has not only discovered ground breaking research that may lead to cures for multiple illnesses and diseases, but has also created thousands of high paying throughout South Florida.”
“Also in the Florida Legislature, I sponsored the Florida Technology Development Act. This legislation created the Centers of Excellence at Florida Atlantic University. The Center of Excellence in Biomedical and Marine Biotechnology is an academic-industry partnership of ocean engineering, marine biotechnology, functional genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics for the discovery, development and commercialization of new medicines from Florida's natural marine resources.”
At today’s press conference the Members announced that the House of Representatives will consider three measures in the 110th Congress that will move the country forward with this critical plan for the economy and the future. These measures will add thousands of highly qualified math and science teachers in K-12, encourage young scientists to pursue high-risk research, and strengthen access to capital programs for small businesses, offering them the tools to be successful. All measures are compliant with PAYGO standards, meaning that all legislation passed by Congress must be paid for and not add to the federal deficit.
Klein will speak about the innovation agenda tomorrow on the House floor. | 
