Lamar Smith: “Science and technology research addresses the major challenges facing our Nation. These include energy production…”

“Science and technology research addresses the major challenges facing our Nation. These include energy production, public health, national security, and economic development. H.R. 5029, the International Science and Technology Cooperation Act of 2014, will improve our collaboration efforts with international partners on scientific issues. I thank the ranking member, Mr. Lipinski of Illinois, for his initiative on this issue and, as I mentioned a while ago, for his initiative on so many bills that are being considered today. Better collaboration with our international partners will strengthen the U.S. scientific activities and will additionally promote the free exchange of ideas in other nations. While many Federal agencies are engaged with international partners on science and technology projects, there is a need to coordinate these projects across the Federal Government and to identify opportunities for additional collaborations. Interagency coordination ensures that tax dollars are used efficiently and that U.S. priorities are consistently addressed when working with our international partners on science and technology issues. The International Science and Technology Cooperation Act directs the National Science and Technology Council to identify and coordinate the U.S. interagency strategy for international science and technology cooperation. Further, this council will make recommendations for how to improve U.S.…”