H.R.2582 - Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2582, the "Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness Act," directs 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 in advancing measurement science, technical standards, and technology to enhance U.S. economic security and prosperity. It also aims to foster collaboration among researchers, institutions, industry, and nonprofit organizations to accelerate the development and commercialization of emerging technologies.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to increased funding and support for NIST's activities through the establishment of the Foundation. This could result in faster development and commercialization of new technologies and improved technical standards. The Foundation will also facilitate greater collaboration between NIST and external stakeholders, potentially leading to more innovative research and development outcomes.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced collaboration between NIST and external stakeholders (academia, industry, nonprofits).
- Increased support for NIST's research and development activities.
- Acceleration of the commercialization of federally funded research.
- Potential for improved technical standards and measurement science.
- Support for NIST associates through fellowships, grants, and other resources.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for conflicts of interest within the Foundation's board and operations.
- Risk of redundancy or lack of coordination between the Foundation and NIST's existing programs.
- Administrative overhead associated with establishing and maintaining the Foundation.
- Possible lack of transparency in the Foundation's grant-making and decision-making processes.
- Potential for the Foundation to be influenced by private interests.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's broad mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). Article I, Section 8, Clause 8 grants Congress the power to "promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts," which this bill supports through its focus on technological innovation and standards development. The establishment of a non-profit foundation does not inherently violate any specific constitutional provision, provided it operates within established legal and ethical guidelines.
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).