WASHINGTON - Today the House of Representatives unanimously approved H.R. 6229, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Reauthorization Act of 2018. The bill is sponsored by Rep. Barbara Comstock (R-Va.), chairwoman of the Research and Technology Subcommittee, and cosponsored by Rep. Dan Lipinski (D-Ill.), full committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-Texas), and Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas).
H.R 6229 supports and strengthens the research, measurement, and standards programs of NIST. The bill authorizes a $125 million increase to the NIST scientific and technical research and services lab account to transform basic research into new innovations and technologies. This investment will accelerate research and development in emerging technology areas such as quantum information science (QIS), cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, and composite materials.
Chairman Smith:
“If America is to remain competitive in this increasingly dynamic global economy, it is essential that we support technology programs that will pave the way for American innovation. This bill will help ensure NIST maintains its position as a global leader in science and technology and keep American industry at the forefront. I thank Chairwoman Comstock for her leadership on this bill and my colleagues on the Science Committee for their support.”
Research and Technology Subcommittee Chairwoman Comstock:
“NIST’s mission is to promote U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards and technology in ways that enhance economic security and improve all American’s quality of life. Since its establishment in 1901, NIST has helped position U.S. technology at the leading edge, making contributions to many products and services. The legislation we were able to pass today, reauthorizes NIST for the next 2 years, increasing funds for quantum science, artificial intelligence and data science, advanced communications and the Internet of Things, and composites research and standards development. This legislation will lead to innovations and solutions to 21st century problems.”
Click here to view the full text of the bill.