H.R.788 - DOE and SBA Research Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 788, the DOE and SBA Research Act, aims to foster joint research and development activities between the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Small Business Administration (SBA). The bill mandates a memorandum of understanding or agreement between the DOE and SBA to promote collaborative research. It also emphasizes the inclusion of small business concerns in these activities.
The Act requires a report to Congress within two years, detailing coordination, opportunities, achievements, and future success areas. The bill also addresses research security and states that no additional funds are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the Act.
In short, this bill seeks to leverage the resources and expertise of both the DOE and SBA to advance research and development, with a specific focus on engaging small businesses.
Expected Effects
This bill will likely lead to increased collaboration between the Department of Energy and the Small Business Administration. Small businesses may see increased opportunities to participate in research and development projects.
The report to Congress will provide transparency regarding the activities and outcomes of this collaboration. The lack of additional authorized funding may limit the scope and impact of the Act.
Potential Benefits
- Increased collaboration between the DOE and SBA could lead to innovative solutions and advancements in various fields.
- Inclusion of small businesses in research activities can foster entrepreneurship and economic growth.
- The report to Congress ensures accountability and transparency in the use of resources.
- Reimbursable agreements can maximize the effectiveness of research and development activities.
- Collaboration with other federal agencies can broaden the scope and impact of the research.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The lack of additional authorized funding may limit the scope and impact of the Act.
- The success of the collaboration depends on the effective implementation of the memorandum of understanding or agreement.
- The focus on small businesses may exclude larger businesses with relevant expertise from participating in the research activities.
- The report to Congress may not provide sufficient detail to fully assess the impact of the Act.
- The research security requirements may add complexity and cost to the research activities.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the spirit of the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause (Preamble). It promotes scientific advancement and economic growth, which can contribute to the overall well-being of the nation.
Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. This bill falls under the general welfare clause.
However, the lack of specific funding authorization raises questions about the extent to which the bill can be effectively implemented. The bill does not appear to infringe on 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).