Paulsen Amendment to Help Minnesota Medical Innovation Passes House

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 8, 2009

CONTACT: Luke Friedrich (952) 405-8510 / Andrew Foxwell (202) 225-2871

WASHINGTON – The U.S. House of Representatives passed an amendment authored by Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) today that will help the state’s medical technology industry expand their nation-leading health innovation and research.  The amendment, approved by a voice vote, was added to the Enhancing Small Business Research and Innovation Act of 2009 (H.R. 2965) that passed the full House today.  This amendment adds medical technology to the list of priority topics and industries eligible for Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) funding.

“Medical technology is a vital part of the economy in Minnesota’s Third District and across the United States,” said Paulsen.  “Increasing the availability of funding for medical technology research and innovation will result in better, more effective health care for all Americans in the future.”

With over 6,000 medical technology companies in the U.S., the industry provides valuable advances in health care as well as an economic boost to both Minnesota and the entire nation.   Statistics show that, on average, each medical technology job generates an additional two jobs in that state, while each dollar of sales generates an additional $1.12 in payroll. Minnesota is fourth in the nation with over 18,000 medical technology jobs. 

Paulsen is a co-chair of the House Medical Technology Caucus.  For more information on Paulsen’s work in Congress, please visit www.paulsen.house.gov.

WATCH THE VIDEO OF THE AMENDMENT FROM THE FLOOR BY CLICKING HERE