Congressman Dan Lipinski’s (IL-3) International Science and Technology Cooperation Act of 2014 – H.R. 5029 – was passed by the House of Representatives this week 346-41.  The bill would improve U.S. diplomatic efforts in cooperating on scientific research, which would help address key challenges facing our nation, including energy production, public health, national security, and job creation.

The legislation specifically directs the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) at the White House to maintain a body that would identify and coordinate the U.S. interagency strategy for international science and technology cooperation.  In addition, it requires the NSTC to report back to Congress on their activities to ensure appropriate oversight by the legislative branch. 

“By collaborating with international partners on scientific issues, we strengthen the U.S. scientific enterprise and additionally promote the free exchange of ideas in other nations,” Rep. Lipinski said.  “While many federal agencies are engaged with international partners on science and technology projects, there is a need to coordinate these projects across the federal government and to identify opportunities for additional beneficial collaborations.  Coordination on international scientific research ensures that tax dollars are being used efficiently and that U.S. priorities are being consistently addressed when working with our international partners on science and technology issues.”

Rep. Lipinski is the top Democrat on the Research and Technology Subcommittee of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee.  The bill now moves on to the Senate.