Political Quotes

“Madam Chair, I rise in strong support of H.R. 5116, the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act. Three years ago, Congress passed the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology Education and Science Act, or America COMPETES Act. Enactment of this law authorized funds over three years for the National Science Foundation, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and certain math and science related programs within the Energy Department's Office of Science. The 2007 law came about partly in reaction to a 2005 National Academies report that focused on American students' lagging performance in science and math compared with their peers in other developed countries. In passing this law, we realize then, as we do now, that failure to invest in our young people by improving science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education at all levels will have serious repercussions--not only in terms of workforce development but also in our ability to promote cutting-edge, innovative breakthroughs that will keep us competitive in the global economy. As a cosponsor of H.R. 5116, I believe that America's economy can continue to grow and prosper if we act now to promote innovation and the development of new technology. This bill expands, strengthens, and aligns STEM education programs at all levels.…”