Innovation, competitiveness law may be pathway to economic prosperity

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers applauded the House and Senate for passing the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education and Science Act, which President Bush signed into law last Thursday. This legislation is designed to provide the foundation for new scientific discovery, high-growth jobs and future leadership and prosperity in the United States.The act, also known as America COMPETES, aims to strengthen U.S. innovation and competitiveness through investments in technology development and education.America COMPETES will keep research programs at the National Science Foundation, National Institute of Standards and Technology and Department of Energy Office of Science on a near-term doubling path. It also authorizes $33.6 billion over the fiscal years 2008 through 2010 for research and education programs across the federal government.“Funding increases are a vital investment in the future prosperity and security of our nation, and your support for fundamental research at the National Science Foundation, Department of Energy Office of Science, and National Institute of Standards and Technology — as well as math and science education programs — puts us on the right path,” said ASME president Sam Y. Zamrik in a letter to Congressional leaders.The next phase in the legislation, according to ASME, is to follow through on appropriate levels of spending for the initiatives and programs, particularly in the areas of energy, technical standards, fundamental research and K-12 science, technology, engineering and mathematics education.

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