CONGRESSMAN Jared Polis 2nd DISTRICT OF COLORADO

Science & Technology

America’s future success, economic prosperity, and domestic security are contingent on our leadership in science and technology. With institutions like the University of Colorado, National Institute for Science and Technology, the National Center for Atmospheric Research, and private sector businesses like IBM and Ball Aerospace calling Colorado’s Second Congressional District home, we are no strangers to innovation. Addressing climate change, modernizing our transportation networks, protecing Internet freedom, and making our homes more efficient is America’s 21st century challenge. These technologies will reduce water consumption, break our addiction to foreign oil, expand commerce, and power our future. They are being created and perfected right in our backyard, and Congressman Polis is working in Congress to ensure that our universities and labs are getting the best resources for their work.

Internet Freedom

As an entrepreneur and creator of several successful Internet start-ups, Congressman Polis has long been an ardent supporter of an open and free internet. The Internet has proven to be one of, if not the, most important innovations of our lifetimes. Therefore, it is imperative that the Internet freedoms Americans enjoy today not be jeapordized by misguided government or private sector censorship. Oppressive regimes across the globe have attempted to censor the Internet and muzzle free speech, while others seek to control the Internet for economic purposes. This is why it is the responsibility of Congress to ensure access to a free and open Internet for all Americans.

Science

Addressing the challenges of climate change is a priority for this Congress and a pillar of my legislative agenda. As Vice Chairman of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC), a focused, action-based caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives, I am urging my colleagues in Congress to support progress on this issue, not only in our labs, but through collaborative research done across America and throughout the world.

To ensure our children’s future, we need to ensure that our next generation of scientists is getting the training they need to be leaders in their field. I will continue to work for education reforms, ensuring that every classroom has a skilled, well-credentialed science teacher. We know that science learning happens both in and outside the classroom, which is why I support Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) training programs in our parks and museums.  A lifelong love of learning, particularly for those who are underrepresented in the science fields, begins with a personal connection. Science is a factor of health care policy, as well, and I will support research that allows us all to live longer, healthier lives.

Technology

The researchers at facilities, such as the National Renewable Energy Research Lab in Jefferson County Colorado do our country no good if their results sit on a shelf. I will use my business world common sense and experience to find ways to promote new technologies and encourage the private sector to create jobs by producing the efficient vehicles, appliances and fuels that will give us clean power and energy independence.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Congressman Polis launched the bipartisan House Caucus on Innovation and Entrepreneurship to promote legislation that will help new and small businesses grow and create jobs to put America back to work. The Caucus is educating Congress on the importance of innovation and the prominent role start-up companies play in job creation. In these tough economic times it is imperative that Congress do everything it can to support the small businesses that are the backbone of our nation.

Office Contact: For more information or questions about science and technology issues, please contact the Washington office. You can also visit Congressman Polis' Legislation Page or find information on bills and amendments that he’s cosponsored in Congress.