S.1235 - Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1235, the "Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness Act," aims to enhance U.S. economic security and prosperity by directing the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to establish a nonprofit corporation called the Foundation for Standards and Metrology. The Foundation's mission is to support NIST's activities in advancing measurement science, technical standards, and technology. It also seeks to foster collaboration among researchers, institutions, industry, and nonprofit organizations to accelerate the development and commercialization of emerging technologies.
The bill outlines the Foundation's activities, including supporting international metrology engagement, funding research, promoting collaboration, improving research facilities, and offering support to NIST associates. It details the Foundation's governance structure, including the establishment of a Board of Directors with appointed and ex officio members, and specifies the Board's duties and responsibilities.
Furthermore, the bill addresses administrative aspects, financial integrity, intellectual property, and accountability measures, including strategic plans, reports, audits, and evaluations. It authorizes appropriations for the Foundation, ensuring separate fund accounts and defining key terms.
Expected Effects
This bill will likely lead to increased collaboration between NIST and external organizations, accelerating the development and commercialization of new technologies. The establishment of the Foundation for Standards and Metrology could provide additional resources and support for NIST's mission.
It may also streamline the process of transferring federally funded research into the private sector. The increased focus on metrology and technical standards could enhance the competitiveness of U.S. industries in the global market.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Innovation: Facilitates collaboration between NIST and external entities, fostering innovation in measurement science and technology.
- Economic Growth: Supports the commercialization of emerging technologies, potentially leading to new businesses and job creation.
- Improved Research Infrastructure: Expands and improves research facilities at NIST, enhancing its ability to conduct cutting-edge research.
- Support for NIST Associates: Provides fellowships, grants, and other support to NIST associates, attracting and retaining talent.
- International Collaboration: Supports international metrology and technical standards engagement activities, promoting U.S. leadership in these areas.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Conflicts of Interest: The involvement of private sector entities in the Foundation's activities could create conflicts of interest.
- Administrative Overhead: Establishing and maintaining the Foundation will incur administrative costs.
- Risk of Redundancy: There is a risk of overlap and redundancy with existing NIST programs and activities.
- Lack of Accountability: As a non-governmental entity, the Foundation may be less accountable to the public than NIST itself.
- Dependence on Funding: The Foundation's success will depend on its ability to secure funding from various sources, which may be uncertain.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's broad mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). By supporting scientific research and technological development, the bill aims to improve the economic prosperity and security of the United States.
Congress's power to establish institutions and make laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers (Article I, Section 8) supports the creation of the Foundation for Standards and Metrology. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).