H.R.788 - DOE and SBA Research Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.788, the DOE and SBA Research Act, aims to foster collaboration between the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Small Business Administration (SBA) through joint research and development activities. The Act mandates a memorandum of understanding or agreement between the DOE and SBA to advance their respective missions. It also emphasizes the inclusion of small business concerns in these activities.
The Act requires a report to Congress within two years, detailing the coordination, potential opportunities, research achievements, and future areas of success. The Act also stipulates that research activities must comply with research security guidelines outlined in existing law.
Finally, the bill states that no additional funds are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the Act.
Expected Effects
This Act will likely lead to increased collaboration between the DOE and SBA, potentially fostering innovation and development in areas of mutual interest. Small businesses may benefit from increased access to DOE resources and expertise. The impact will be limited by the fact that no new funds are authorized.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced collaboration between the DOE and SBA.
- Increased opportunities for small businesses to participate in research and development.
- Potential for innovation and advancement in energy-related technologies.
- Improved coordination of federal resources.
- A report to Congress will provide transparency and accountability.
Potential Disadvantages
- The lack of additional funding may limit the scope and impact of the collaborative activities.
- The success of the Act depends on the willingness and ability of the DOE and SBA to effectively collaborate.
- The report to Congress may reveal shortcomings or areas where the collaboration is not yielding expected results.
- The focus on research security may add bureaucratic hurdles.
- Potential for bureaucratic inefficiencies in coordinating activities between two large agencies.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause of Article I, Section 8, which allows Congress to provide for the general welfare of the United States. The Act promotes collaboration between government agencies and supports small businesses, potentially contributing to economic growth and innovation. There are no apparent infringements on individual liberties or rights.
The Act does not appear to violate any specific constitutional provisions. It falls within the scope of Congress's enumerated powers to regulate commerce and promote the general welfare.
However, the lack of specific funding authorization could be interpreted as a limitation on the Act's potential impact, as it relies on existing resources and cooperation between agencies.
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).