Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 90 Part 1.djvu/509

 PUBLIC LAW 94-282—MAY 11, 1976

90 STAT. 459

Public Law 94-282 94th Congress An Act To establish a science and technology policy for the United States, to provide for scientific and technological advice and assistance to the President, to provide a comprehensive survey of ways and means for improving the Federal effort in scientific research and information handling, and in the use thereof, to amend the National Science Foundation Act of 1950, and for other purposes.

Be It enctcted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That this Act may be cited as the "National Science and Technology Policy, Organization, and l^riorities Act of 1976". TITLE I—NATIONAL SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY AND P R I O R I T I E S

May 11, 1976 [H.R. 102301

National Science and Technology Policy, Organization, and Priorities Act of 1976. 42 USC 6601 note.

FINDINGS

SEC. 101. (a) The Congress, recognizing the profound impact of science and technology on societ}^, and the interrelations of scientific, technological, economic, social, political, and institutional factors, hereby finds and declares that— (1) the general welfare, the security, the economic health and stability of the Nation, the conservation and eflScient utilization of its natural and human resources, and the effective functioning of government and societ}^ require vigorous, perceptive support and employment of science and technology in achieving national objectives; (2) the many large and complex scientific and technological factors which increasingly influence the course of national and international events require appropriate provision, involving longrange, inclusive planning as well as more immediate program development, to incorporate scientific and technological knowledge in the national decisionmaking process; (3) the scientific and technological capabilities of the United States, when properly fostered, applied, and directed, can effectively assist in improving the quality of life, in anticipating and resolving critical and emerging international, national, and local problems, in strengthening the Nation's international economic position, and in furthering its foreign policy objectives; (4) Federal funding for science and technology represents an investment in the future which is indispensable to sustained national progress and human betterment, and there should be a continuing national investment in science, engineering, and technology which is commensurate with national needs and opportunities and the prevalent economic situation; (5) the manpower pool of scientists, engineers, and technicians, constitutes an invaluable national resource which should be utilized to the fullest extent possible; and (6) the Nation's capabilities for technology assessment and for technological planning and policy formulation must be strengthened at both Federal and State levels.

42 USC 6601.

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