Gabby Giffords: “First I would like to congratulate Chairman Gordon and also Ranking Member Hall for this legislation. Three years ago…”

“First I would like to congratulate Chairman Gordon and also Ranking Member Hall for this legislation. Three years ago, this body recognized the importance that science and technology play on our 21st century workforce, and we took action by passing the America COMPETES Act of 2007. We heeded the warnings from the National Academies' report, ``Rising Above the Gathering Storm.'' American students were falling behind in science and mathematics, and with their falling grades went our ability to remain competitive in this new global economy. That's why I offered amendments 3 years ago to help students from low-income and rural parts of America to get the support they need to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. But we're not through the woods yet. Today we renew our commitment by maintaining America's leadership by reauthorizing this legislation. This bipartisan bill is exactly the sort this Congress should be focusing on. It's about the economy; it's about jobs; it's about innovation; and it's about preparing for tomorrow. I want to take a moment to mention a particular component of this legislation which I am particularly proud to support. Earlier this year, I introduced the 21st Century Graduate STEM Education Act which is now incorporated into this legislation. We need to do everything we can to ensure that our students at every level have the best STEM education in the world so that they can enter the workforce and thrive.”