[Congressional Bills 114th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[S. 3084 Enrolled Bill (ENR)]
S.3084
One Hundred Fourteenth Congress
of the
United States of America
AT THE SECOND SESSION
Begun and held at the City of Washington on Monday,
the fourth day of January, two thousand and sixteen
An Act
To invest in innovation through research and development, and to improve
the competitiveness of the United States.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``American
Innovation and Competitiveness Act''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents of this Act is as
follows:
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. Definitions.
TITLE I--MAXIMIZING BASIC RESEARCH
Sec. 101. Reaffirmation of merit-based peer review.
Sec. 102. Transparency and accountability.
Sec. 103. EPSCoR reaffirmation and update.
Sec. 104. Cybersecurity research.
Sec. 105. Networking and Information Technology Research and Development
Update.
Sec. 106. Physical sciences coordination.
Sec. 107. Laboratory program improvements.
Sec. 108. Standard Reference Data Act update.
Sec. 109. NSF mid-scale project investments.
Sec. 110. Oversight of NSF major multi-user research facility projects.
Sec. 111. Personnel oversight.
Sec. 112. Management of the U.S. Antarctic Program.
Sec. 113. NIST campus security.
Sec. 114. Coordination of sustainable chemistry research and
development.
Sec. 115. Misrepresentation of research results.
Sec. 116. Research reproducibility and replication.
Sec. 117. Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies
Initiative.
TITLE II--ADMINISTRATIVE AND REGULATORY BURDEN REDUCTION
Sec. 201. Interagency working group on research regulation.
Sec. 202. Scientific and technical collaboration.
Sec. 203. NIST grants and cooperative agreements update.
Sec. 204. Repeal of certain obsolete reports.
Sec. 205. Repeal of certain provisions.
Sec. 206. Grant subrecipient transparency and oversight.
Sec. 207. Micro-purchase threshold for procurement solicitations by
research institutions.
Sec. 208. Coordination of international science and technology
partnerships.
TITLE III--SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATH EDUCATION
Sec. 301. Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program update.
Sec. 302. Space grants.
Sec. 303. STEM Education Advisory Panel.
Sec. 304. Committee on STEM Education.
Sec. 305. Programs to expand STEM opportunities.
Sec. 306. NIST education and outreach.
Sec. 307. Presidential awards for excellence in STEM mentoring.
Sec. 308. Working group on inclusion in STEM fields.
Sec. 309. Improving undergraduate STEM experiences.
Sec. 310. Computer science education research.
Sec. 311. Informal STEM education.
Sec. 312. Developing STEM apprenticeships.
Sec. 313. NSF report on broadening participation.
Sec. 314. NOAA science education programs.
Sec. 315. Hispanic-serving institutions undergraduate program update.
TITLE IV--LEVERAGING THE PRIVATE SECTOR
Sec. 401. Prize competition authority update.
Sec. 402. Crowdsourcing and citizen science.
Sec. 403. NIST director functions update.
Sec. 404. NIST Visiting Committee on Advanced Technology update.
TITLE V--MANUFACTURING
Sec. 501. Hollings manufacturing extension partnership improvements.
TITLE VI--INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER
Sec. 601. Innovation corps.
Sec. 602. Translational research grants.
Sec. 603. Optics and photonics technology innovations.
Sec. 604. United States chief technology officer.
Sec. 605. National research council study on technology for emergency
notifications on campuses.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act, unless expressly provided otherwise:
(1) Appropriate committees of congress.--The term ``appropriate
committees of Congress'' means the Committee on Commerce, Science,
and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Science,
Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives.
(2) Federal science agency.--The term ``Federal science
agency'' has the meaning given the term in section 103 of the
America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 6623).
(3) Foundation.--The term ``Foundation'' means the National
Science Foundation.
(4) Institution of higher education.--The term ``institution of
higher education'' has the meaning given the term in section 101(a)
of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001(a)).
(5) NIST.--The term ``NIST'' means the National Institute of
Standards and Technology.
(6) STEM.--The term ``STEM'' has the meaning given the term in
section 2 of the American COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42
U.S.C. 6621 note).
(7) STEM education.--The term ``STEM education'' has the
meaning given the term in section 2 of the STEM Education Act of
2015 (42 U.S.C. 6621 note).
TITLE I--MAXIMIZING BASIC RESEARCH
SEC. 101. REAFFIRMATION OF MERIT-BASED PEER REVIEW.
(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) sustained, predictable Federal funding of basic research is
essential to United States leadership in science and technology;
(2) the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts
criteria are appropriate for evaluating grant proposals, as
concluded by the 2011 National Science Board Task Force on Merit
Review;
(3) evaluating proposals on the basis of the Foundation's
intellectual merit and broader impacts criteria should be used to
assure that the Foundation's activities are in the national
interest as these reviews can affirm that--
(A) the proposals funded by the Foundation are of high
quality and advance scientific knowledge; and
(B) the Foundation's grants address societal needs through
basic research findings or through related activities; and
(4) as evidenced by the Foundation's contributions to
scientific advancement, economic growth, human health, and national
security, its peer review and merit review processes have
identified and funded scientifically and societally relevant basic
research and should be preserved.
(b) Merit Review Criteria.--The Foundation shall maintain the
intellectual merit and broader impacts criteria, among other specific
criteria as appropriate, as the basis for evaluating grant proposals in
the merit review process.
(c) Updates.--If after the date of enactment of this Act a change
is made to the merit-review process, the Director shall submit a report
to the appropriate committees of Congress not later than 30 days after
the date of the change.
SEC. 102. TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY.
(a) Findings.--
(1) building the understanding of and confidence in investments
in basic research is essential to public support for sustained,
predictable Federal funding;
(2) the Foundation has improved transparency and accountability
of the outcomes made through the merit review process, but
additional transparency into individual grants is valuable in
communicating and assuring the public value of federally funded
research; and
(3) the Foundation should commit to transparency and
accountability and to clear, consistent public communication
regarding the national interest for each Foundation-awarded grant
and cooperative agreement.
(b) Guidance.--
(1) In general.--The Director of the Foundation shall issue and
periodically update, as appropriate, policy guidance for both
Foundation staff and other Foundation merit review process
participants on the importance of transparency and accountability
to the outcomes made through the merit review process.
(2) Requirements.--The guidance under paragraph (1) shall
require that each public notice of a Foundation-funded research
project justify the expenditure of Federal funds by--
(A) describing how the project--
(i) reflects the statutory mission of the Foundation,
as established in the National Science Foundation Act of
1950 (42 U.S.C. 1861 et seq.); and
(ii) addresses the Foundation's intellectual merit and
broader impacts criteria; and
(B) clearly identifying the research goals of the project
in a manner that can be easily understood by both technical and
non-technical audiences.
(c) Broader Impacts Review Criterion Update.--Section 526(a) of the
America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 1862p-14(a)) is
amended to read as follows:
``(a) Goals.--The Foundation shall apply a broader impacts review
criterion to identify and demonstrate project support of the following
goals:
``(1) Increasing the economic competitiveness of the United
States.
``(2) Advancing of the health and welfare of the American
public.
``(3) Supporting the national defense of the United States.
``(4) Enhancing partnerships between academia and industry in
the United States.
``(5) Developing an American STEM workforce that is globally
competitive through improved pre-kindergarten through grade 12 STEM
education and teacher development, and improved undergraduate STEM
education and instruction.
``(6) Improving public scientific literacy and engagement with
science and technology in the United States.
``(7) Expanding participation of women and individuals from
underrepresented groups in STEM.''.
SEC. 103. EPSCOR REAFFIRMATION AND UPDATE.
(a) Findings.--Section 517(a) of the America COMPETES
Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 1862p-9(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) by striking ``The National'' and inserting ``the
National''; and
(B) by striking ``education,'' and inserting ``education'';
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``with 27 States'' and all
that follows through the semicolon at the end and inserting ``with
28 States and jurisdictions, taken together, receiving only about
12 percent of all National Science Foundation research funding;'';
(3) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the following:
``(3) each of the States described in paragraph (2) receives
only a fraction of 1 percent of the Foundation's research dollars
each year;''; and
(4) by adding at the end the following:
``(4) first established at the National Science Foundation in
1979, the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research
(referred to in this section as `EPSCoR') assists States and
jurisdictions historically underserved by Federal research and
development funding in strengthening their research and innovation
capabilities;
``(5) the EPSCoR structure requires each participating State to
develop a science and technology plan suited to State and local
research, education, and economic interests and objectives;
``(6) EPSCoR has been credited with advancing the research
competitiveness of participating States, improving awareness of
science, promoting policies that link scientific investment and
economic growth, and encouraging partnerships between government,
industry, and academia;
``(7) EPSCoR proposals are evaluated through a rigorous and
competitive merit-review process to ensure that awarded research
and development efforts meet high scientific standards; and
``(8) according to the National Academy of Sciences, EPSCoR has
strengthened the national research infrastructure and enhanced the
educational opportunities needed to develop the science and
engineering workforce.''.
(b) Sense of Congress.--
(1) In general.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(A) since maintaining the Nation's scientific and economic
leadership requires the participation of talented individuals
nationwide, EPSCoR investments into State research and
education capacities are in the Federal interest and should be
sustained; and
(B) EPSCoR should maintain its experimental component by
supporting innovative methods for improving research capacity
and competitiveness.
(2) Definition of epscor.--In this subsection, the term
``EPSCoR'' has the meaning given the term in section 502 of the
America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 1862p
note).
(c) Award Structure Updates.--Section 517 of the America COMPETES
Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 1862p-9) is amended by adding at
the end the following:
``(g) Award Structure Updates.--In implementing the mandate to
maximize the impact of Federal EPSCoR support on building competitive
research infrastructure, and based on the inputs and recommendations of
previous EPSCoR reviews, the head of each Federal agency administering
an EPSCoR program shall--
``(1) consider modifications to EPSCoR proposal solicitation,
award type, and project evaluation--
``(A) to more closely align with current agency priorities
and initiatives;
``(B) to focus EPSCoR funding on achieving critical
scientific, infrastructure, and educational needs of that
agency;
``(C) to encourage collaboration between EPSCoR-eligible
institutions and researchers, including with institutions and
researchers in other States and jurisdictions;
``(D) to improve communication between State and Federal
agency proposal reviewers; and
``(E) to continue to reduce administrative burdens
associated with EPSCoR;
``(2) consider modifications to EPSCoR award structures--
``(A) to emphasize long-term investments in building
research capacity, potentially through the use of larger,
renewable funding opportunities; and
``(B) to allow the agency, States, and jurisdictions to
experiment with new research and development funding models;
and
``(3) consider modifications to the mechanisms used to monitor
and evaluate EPSCoR awards--
``(A) to increase collaboration between EPSCoR-funded
researchers and agency staff, including by providing
opportunities for mentoring young researchers and for the use
of Federal facilities;
``(B) to identify and disseminate best practices; and
``(C) to harmonize metrics across participating Federal
agencies, as appropriate.''.
(d) Reports.--
(1) Congressional reports.--Section 517 of the America COMPETES
Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 1862p-9), as amended, is
further amended--
(A) by striking subsection (c);
(B) by redesignating subsections (d) through (g) as
subsections (c) through (f), respectively;
(C) in subsection (c), as redesignated--
(i) in paragraph (1), by striking ``Experimental
Programs to Stimulate Competitive Research'' and inserting
``EPSCoR''; and
(ii) in paragraph (2)--
(I) in subparagraphs (A) and (E), by striking
``EPSCoR and Federal EPSCoR-like programs'' and
inserting ``each EPSCoR'';
(II) in subparagraph (D), by striking ``EPSCoR and
other Federal EPSCoR-like programs'' and inserting
``each EPSCoR'';
(III) in subparagraph (E), by striking ``EPSCoR or
Federal EPSCoR-like programs'' and inserting ``each
EPSCoR''; and
(IV) in subparagraph (G), by striking ``EPSCoR
programs'' and inserting ``each EPSCoR''; and
(D) by amending subsection (d), as redesignated, to read as
follows:
``(d) Federal Agency Reports.--Each Federal agency that administers
an EPSCoR shall submit to Congress, as part of its Federal budget
submission--
``(1) a description of the program strategy and objectives;
``(2) a description of the awards made in the previous fiscal
year, including--
``(A) the total amount made available, by State, under
EPSCoR;
``(B) the total amount of agency funding made available to
all institutions and entities within each EPSCoR State;
``(C) the efforts and accomplishments to more fully
integrate the EPSCoR States in major agency activities and
initiatives;
``(D) the percentage of EPSCoR reviewers from EPSCoR
States; and
``(E) the number of programs or large collaborator awards
involving a partnership of organizations and institutions from
EPSCoR and non-EPSCoR States; and
``(3) an analysis of the gains in academic research quality and
competitiveness, and in science and technology human resource
development, achieved by the program over the last 5 fiscal
years.''; and
(E) in subsection (e)(1), as redesignated, by striking
``Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research or a
program similar to the Experimental Program to Stimulate
Competitive Research'' and inserting ``EPSCoR''.
(2) Results of award structure plan.--Not later than 1 year
after the date of enactment of this Act, the EPSCoR Interagency
Coordinating Committee shall brief the appropriate committees of
Congress on the updates made to the award structure under 517(f) of
the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 1862p-
9(f)), as amended by this subsection.
(e) Definition of EPSCoR.--
(1) In general.--Section 502 of the America COMPETES
Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 1862p note) is amended by
amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) EPSCoR.--The term `EPSCoR' means--
``(A) the Established Program to Stimulate Competitive
Research established by the Foundation; or
``(B) a program similar to the Established Program to
Stimulate Competitive Research at another Federal agency.''.
(2) Technical and conforming amendments.--Section 113 of the
National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1988 (42 U.S.C.
1862g) is amended--
(A) in the heading, by striking ``experimental'' and
inserting ``established'';
(B) in subsection (a), by striking ``an Experimental
Program to Stimulate Competitive Research'' and inserting ``a
program to stimulate competitive research (known as the
`Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research')''; and
(C) in subsection (b), by striking ``the program'' and
inserting ``the Program''.
SEC. 104. CYBERSECURITY RESEARCH.
(a) Foundation Cybersecurity Research.--Section 4(a)(1) of the
Cyber Security Research and Development Act, as amended (15 U.S.C.
7403(a)(1)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (O), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(2) in subparagraph (P), by striking the period at the end and
inserting a semicolon; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(Q) security of election-dedicated voting system software
and hardware; and
``(R) role of the human factor in cybersecurity and the
interplay of computers and humans and the physical world.''.
(b) NIST Cybersecurity Priorities.--
(1) Critical infrastructure awareness.--The Director of NIST
shall continue to raise public awareness of the voluntary,
industry-led cybersecurity standards and best practices for
critical infrastructure developed under section 2(c)(15) of the
National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C.
272(c)(15)).
(2) Quantum computing.--Under section 2(b) of the National
Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 272(b)) and
section 20 of that Act (15 U.S.C. 278g-3), the Director of NIST
shall--
(A) research information systems for future cybersecurity
needs; and
(B) coordinate with relevant stakeholders to develop a
process--
(i) to research and identify or, if necessary, develop
cryptography standards and guidelines for future
cybersecurity needs, including quantum-resistant
cryptography standards; and
(ii) to provide recommendations to Congress, Federal
agencies, and industry consistent with the National
Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 (Public Law
104-113; 110 Stat. 775), for a secure and smooth transition
to the standards under clause (i).
(3) Federal information systems research and development.--
Section 20(d)(3) of the National Institute of Standards and
Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278g-3(d)(3)) is amended to read as
follows:
``(3) conduct research and analysis--
``(A) to determine the nature and extent of information
security vulnerabilities and techniques for providing cost-
effective information security;
``(B) to review and determine prevalent information
security challenges and deficiencies identified by agencies or
the Institute, including any challenges or deficiencies
described in any of the annual reports under section 3553 or
3554 of title 44, United States Code, and in any of the reports
and the independent evaluations under section 3555 of that
title, that may undermine the effectiveness of agency
information security programs and practices; and
``(C) to evaluate the effectiveness and sufficiency of, and
challenges to, Federal agencies' implementation of standards
and guidelines developed under this section and policies and
standards promulgated under section 11331 of title 40, United
States Code;''.
(4) Voting.--Section 2(c) of the National Institute of
Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 272(c)) is amended--
(A) by redesignating paragraphs (16) through (23) as
paragraphs (17) through (24), respectively; and
(B) by inserting after paragraph (15) the following:
``(16) perform research to support the development of
voluntary, consensus-based, industry-led standards and
recommendations on the security of computers, computer networks,
and computer data storage used in election systems to ensure voters
can vote securely and privately.''.
SEC. 105. NETWORKING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH AND
DEVELOPMENT UPDATE.
(a) Short Title.--This section may be cited as the ``Networking and
Information Technology Research and Development Modernization Act of
2016''.
(b) Findings.--Section 2 of the High-Performance Computing Act of
1991 (15 U.S.C. 5501) is amended--
(1) in paragraphs (2) and (5), by striking ``high-performance
computing'' and inserting ``networking and information technology,
including high-performance computing,''; and
(2) in paragraph (3), by striking ``high-performance
computing'' and inserting ``networking and information technology,
including high-performance computing'';
(c) Purposes.--Section 3 of the High-Performance Computing Act of
1991 (15 U.S.C. 5502) is amended--
(1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking ``high-
performance computing'' and inserting ``networking and information
technology'';
(2) in paragraph (1)--
(A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking
``expanding Federal support for research, development, and
application of high-performance computing'' and inserting
``supporting Federal research, development, and application of
networking and information technology'';
(B) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``high-performance
computing'' both places it appears and inserting ``networking
and information technology'';
(C) by striking subparagraphs (C) and (D);
(D) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following:
``(C) stimulate research on and promote more rapid
development of high-end computing systems software and
applications software;'';
(E) by redesignating subparagraphs (E) through (H) as
subparagraphs (D) through (G), respectively;
(F) in subparagraph (D), as redesignated, by inserting
``high-end'' after ``the development of'';
(G) in subparagraphs (E) and (F), as redesignated, by
striking ``high-performance computing'' each place it appears
and inserting ``networking and information technology''; and
(H) in subparagraph (G), as redesignated, by striking
``high-performance'' and inserting ``high-end''; and
(3) in paragraph (2)--
(A) by striking ``high-performance computing and'' and
inserting ``networking and information technology and''; and
(B) by striking ``high-performance computing network'' and
inserting ``networking and information technology''.
(d) Definitions.--Section 4 of the High-Performance Computing Act
of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5503) is amended--
(1) by striking paragraphs (3) and (5);
(2) by redesignating paragraphs (1), (2), (4), (6), and (7) as
paragraphs (2), (3), (5), (8), and (9), respectively;
(3) by inserting before paragraph (2), as redesignated, the
following:
``(1) `cyber-physical systems' means physical or engineered
systems whose networking and information technology functions and
physical elements are deeply integrated and are actively connected
to the physical world through sensors, actuators, or other means to
enable safe and effective, real-time performance in safety-critical
and other applications;'';
(4) in paragraph (3), as redesignated, by striking ``high-
performance computing'' and inserting ``networking and information
technology'';
(5) by inserting after paragraph (3), as redesignated, the
following:
``(4) `high-end computing' means the most advanced and capable
computing systems, including their hardware, storage, networking
and software, encompassing both massive computational capability
and large-scale data analytics to solve computational problems of
national importance that are beyond the capability of small- to
medium-scale systems, including computing formerly known as high-
performance computing;'';
(6) by inserting after paragraph (5), as redesignated, the
following:
``(6) `networking and information technology' means high-end
computing, communications, and information technologies, high-
capacity and high-speed networks, special purpose and experimental
systems, high-end computing systems software and applications
software, and the management of large data sets;
``(7) `participating agency' means an agency described in
section 101(a)(3)(C);''; and
(7) in paragraph (8), as redesignated, by striking ``National
High-Performance Computing Program'' and inserting ``Networking and
Information Technology Research and Development Program''.
(e) Title I Heading.--The heading of title I of the High-
Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5511 et seq.) is amended
by striking ``HIGH-PERFORMANCE COMPUTING'' and inserting ``NETWORKING
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY''.
(f) Networking and Information Technology Research and Development
Program.--Section 101 of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15
U.S.C. 5511) is amended--
(1) in the section heading, by striking ``national high-
performance computing program'' and inserting ``networking and
information technology research and development program'';
(2) in subsection (a)--
(A) in the subsection heading, by striking ``National High-
Performance Computing Program'' and inserting ``Networking and
Information Technology Research and Development'';
(B) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by
striking ``National High-Performance Computing Program''
and inserting ``Networking and Information Technology
Research and Development Program'';
(ii) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``high-
performance computing, including networking'' and inserting
``networking and information technology'';
(iii) in subparagraphs (B) and (G), by striking ``high-
performance'' each place it appears and inserting ``high-
end'';
(iv) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``high-
performance computing and networking'' and inserting
``high-end computing, distributed, and networking'';
(v) by amending subparagraph (D) to read as follows:
``(D) provide for efforts to increase software security and
reliability;'';
(vi) in subparagraph (H)--
(I) by inserting ``support and guidance'' after
``provide''; and
(II) by striking ``and'' after the semicolon;
(vii) in subparagraph (I)--
(I) by striking ``improving the security'' and
inserting ``improving the security, reliability, and
resilience''; and
(II) by striking the period at the end and
inserting a semicolon; and
(viii) by adding at the end the following:
``(J) provide for increased understanding of the scientific
principles of cyber-physical systems and improve the methods
available for the design, development, and operation of cyber-
physical systems that are characterized by high reliability,
safety, and security;
``(K) provide for research and development on human-
computer interactions, visualization, and big data;
``(L) provide for research and development on the
enhancement of cybersecurity, including the human facets of
cyber threats and secure cyber systems;
``(M) provide for the understanding of the science,
engineering, policy, and privacy protection related to
networking and information technology;
``(N) provide for the transition of high-end computing
hardware, system software, development tools, and applications
into development and operations; and
``(O) foster public-private collaboration among government,
industry research laboratories, academia, and nonprofit
organizations to maximize research and development efforts and
the benefits of networking and information technology,
including high-end computing.'';
(C) in paragraph (2)--
(i) by amending subparagraph (A) to read as follows:
``(A) establish the goals and priorities for Federal
networking and information technology research, development,
education, and other activities;'';
(ii) by amending subparagraph (C) to read as follows:
``(C) provide for interagency coordination of Federal
networking and information technology research, development,
education, and other activities undertaken pursuant to the
Program--
``(i) among the participating agencies; and
``(ii) to the extent practicable, with other Federal
agencies not described in paragraph (3)(C), other Federal
and private research laboratories, industry, research
entities, institutions of higher education, relevant
nonprofit organizations, and international partners of the
United States;'';
(iii) by amending subparagraph (E) to read as follows:
``(E) encourage and monitor the efforts of the agencies
participating in the Program to allocate the level of resources
and management attention necessary to ensure that the strategic
plans under subsection (e) are developed and executed
effectively and that the objectives of the Program are met;
and''; and
(iv) in subparagraph (F), by striking ``high-
performance'' and inserting ``high-end''; and
(D) in paragraph (3)--
(i) by redesignating subparagraphs (B), (C), (D), and
(E) as subparagraphs (C), (D), (E), and (G), respectively;
(ii) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following:
``(B) provide a detailed description of the nature and
scope of research infrastructure designated as such under the
Program;'';
(iii) in subparagraph (C), as redesignated--
(I) by amending clause (i) to read as follows:
``(i) the Department of Justice;'';
(II) by redesignating clauses (vii) through (xi) as
clauses (viii) through (xii), respectively;
(III) by inserting after clause (vi) the following:
``(vii) the Department of Homeland Security;''; and
(IV) by amending clause (viii), as redesignated, to
read as follows:
``(viii) the National Archives and Records
Administration;'';
(iv) in subparagraph (D), as redesignated--
(I) by striking ``is submitted,'' and inserting
``is submitted, the levels for the previous fiscal
year,''; and
(II) by striking ``each Program Component Area;''
and inserting ``each Program Component Area and
research area supported in accordance with section
102;'';
(v) by amending subparagraph (E), as redesignated, to
read as follows:
``(E) describe the levels of Federal funding for each
participating agency, and for each Program Component Area, for
the fiscal year during which such report is submitted, the
levels for the previous fiscal year, and the levels proposed
for the fiscal year with respect to which the budget submission
applies;''; and
(vi) by inserting after subparagraph (E), as
redesignated, the following:
``(F) include a description of how the objectives for each
Program Component Area, and the objectives for activities that
involve multiple Program Component Areas, relate to the
objectives of the Program identified in the strategic plans
required under subsection (e); and'';
(3) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1), in the matter preceding subparagraph
(A)--
(i) by striking ``high-performance computing'' both
places it appears and inserting ``networking and
information technology''; and
(ii) after the first sentence, by inserting the
following: ``Each chair of the advisory committee shall
meet the qualifications of committee membership and may be
a member of the President's Council of Advisors on Science
and Technology.'';
(B) in paragraph (1)(D), by striking ``high-performance
computing, networking technology, and related software'' and
inserting ``networking and information technology''; and
(C) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in the second sentence, by striking ``2'' and
inserting ``3'';
(ii) by striking ``Committee on Science and
Technology'' and inserting ``Committee on Science, Space,
and Technology''; and
(iii) by striking ``The first report shall be due
within 1 year after the date of enactment of the America
COMPETES Act.'';
(4) in subsection (c)(1)(A), by striking ``high-performance
computing'' and inserting ``networking and information
technology''; and
(5) by adding at the end the following:
``(d) Periodic Reviews.--The heads of the participating agencies,
working through the National Science and Technology Council and the
Program, shall--
``(1) periodically assess and update, as appropriate, the
structure of the Program, including the Program Component Areas and
associated contents, scope, and funding levels, taking into
consideration any relevant recommendations of the advisory
committee established under subsection (b); and
``(2) ensure that such agency's implementation of the Program
includes foundational, large-scale, long-term, and
interdisciplinary information technology research and development
activities, including activities described in section 102.
``(e) Strategic Plans.--
``(1) In general.--The heads of the participating agencies,
working through the National Science and Technology Council and the
Program, shall develop and implement strategic plans to guide--
``(A) emerging activities of Federal networking and
information technology research and development; and
``(B) the activities described in subsection (a)(1).
``(2) Updates.--The heads of the participating agencies shall
update the strategic plans as appropriate.
``(3) Contents.--Each strategic plan shall--
``(A) specify near-term and long-term objectives for the
portions of the Program relevant to the strategic plan, the
anticipated schedule for achieving the near-term and long-term
objectives, and the metrics to be used for assessing progress
toward the near-term and long-term objectives;
``(B) specify how the near-term and long-term objectives
complement research and development areas in which academia and
the private sector are actively engaged;
``(C) describe how the heads of the participating agencies
will support mechanisms for foundational, large-scale, long-
term, and interdisciplinary information technology research and
development and for Grand Challenges, including through
collaborations--
``(i) across Federal agencies;
``(ii) across Program Component Areas; and
``(iii) with industry, Federal and private research
laboratories, research entities, institutions of higher
education, relevant nonprofit organizations, and
international partners of the United States;
``(D) describe how the heads of the participating agencies
will foster the rapid transfer of research and development
results into new technologies and applications in the national
interest, including through cooperation and collaborations with
networking and information technology research, development,
and technology transition initiatives supported by the States;
and
``(E) describe how the portions of the Program relevant to
the strategic plan will address long-term challenges for which
solutions require foundational, large-scale, long-term, and
interdisciplinary information technology research and
development.
``(4) Private sector efforts.--In developing, implementing, and
updating strategic plans, the heads of the participating agencies,
working through the National Science and Technology Council and the
Program, shall coordinate with industry, academia, and other
interested stakeholders to ensure, to the extent practicable, that
the Federal networking and information technology research and
development activities carried out under this section do not
duplicate the efforts of the private sector.
``(5) Recommendations.--In developing and updating strategic
plans, the heads of the participating agencies shall solicit
recommendations and advice from--
``(A) the advisory committee under subsection (b);
``(B) the Committee on Science and relevant subcommittees
of the National Science and Technology Council; and
``(C) a wide range of stakeholders, including industry,
academia, National Laboratories, and other relevant
organizations and institutions.
``(f) Reports.--The heads of the participating agencies, working
through the National Science and Technology Council and the Program,
shall submit to the advisory committee, the Committee on Commerce,
Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on
Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives--
``(1) the strategic plans developed under subsection (e)(1);
and
``(2) each update under subsection (e)(2).''.
(g) National Research and Education Network.--Section 102 of the
High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5512) is repealed.
(h) Next Generation Internet.--Section 103 of the High-Performance
Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5513) is repealed.
(i) Grand Challenges in Areas of National Importance.--Title I of
the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5511 et seq.) is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 102. GRAND CHALLENGES IN AREAS OF NATIONAL IMPORTANCE.
``(a) In General.--The Program shall encourage the participating
agencies to support foundational, large-scale, long-term,
interdisciplinary, and interagency information technology research and
development activities in networking and information technology
directed toward agency mission areas that have the potential for
significant contributions to national economic competitiveness and for
other significant societal benefits. Such activities, ranging from
basic research to the demonstration of technical solutions, shall be
designed to advance the development of fundamental discoveries. The
advisory committee established under section 101(b) shall make
recommendations to the Program for candidate research and development
areas for support under this section.
``(b) Characteristics.--
``(1) In general.--Research and development activities under
this section shall--
``(A) include projects selected on the basis of
applications for support through a competitive, merit-based
process;
``(B) to the extent practicable, involve collaborations
among researchers in institutions of higher education and
industry, and may involve nonprofit research institutions and
Federal laboratories, as appropriate;
``(C) to the extent practicable, leverage Federal
investments through collaboration with related State and
private sector initiatives; and
``(D) include a plan for fostering the transfer of research
discoveries and the results of technology demonstration
activities, including from institutions of higher education and
Federal laboratories, to industry for commercial development.
``(2) Cost-sharing.--In selecting applications for support, the
agencies may give special consideration to projects that include
cost sharing from non-Federal sources.''.
(j) National Science Foundation Activities.--Section 201 of the
High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5521) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking ``(a) General Responsibilities.--'';
(B) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by inserting ``high-end'' after ``National Science
Foundation shall provide''; and
(ii) by striking ``high-performance computing'' and all
that follows through ``networking;'' and inserting
``networking and information technology; and'';
(C) by striking paragraphs (2) through (4); and
(D) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
``(2) the National Science Foundation shall use its existing
programs, in collaboration with other agencies, as appropriate, to
improve the teaching and learning of networking and information
technology at all levels of education and to increase participation
in networking and information technology fields, including by
individuals identified in sections 33 and 34 of the Science and
Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a and 1885b).'';
and
(2) by striking subsection (b).
(k) National Aeronautics and Space Administration Activities.--
Section 202 of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C.
5522) is amended--
(1) by striking ``(a) General Responsibilities.--'';
(2) by striking ``high-performance computing'' and inserting
``networking and information technology''; and
(3) by striking subsection (b).
(l) Department of Energy Activities.--Section 203 of the High-
Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5523) is amended--
(1) by striking ``(a) General Responsibilities.--'';
(2) in paragraph (1), by striking ``high-performance computing
and networking'' and inserting ``networking and information
technology'';
(3) in paragraph (2)(A), by striking ``high-performance'' and
inserting ``high-end''; and
(4) by striking subsection (b).
(m) Department of Commerce Activities.--Section 204 of the High-
Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5524) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(1)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``high-performance
computing systems and networks'' and inserting ``networking and
information technology systems and capabilities'';
(B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``interoperability of
high-performance computing systems in networks and for common
user interfaces to systems'' and inserting ``interoperability
and usability of networking and information technology
systems''; and
(C) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``high-performance
computing'' and inserting ``networking and information
technology'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) in the heading, by striking ``High-Performance
Computing and Network'' and inserting ``Networking and
Information Technology'';
(B) by striking ``Pursuant to the Computer Security Act of
1987 (Public Law 100-235; 101 Stat. 1724), the'' and inserting
``The''; and
(C) by striking ``sensitive information in Federal computer
systems'' and inserting ``Federal agency information and
information systems''; and
(3) by striking subsections (c) and (d).
(n) Environmental Protection Agency Activities.--Section 205 of the
High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5525) is repealed.
(o) Role of the Department of Education.--Section 206 of the High-
Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5526) is repealed.
(p) Miscellaneous Provisions.--Section 207 of the High-Performance
Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5527) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(2), by striking ``paragraphs (1) through
(5) of section 2315(a) of title 10'' and inserting ``section
3552(b)(6)(A)(i) of title 44''; and
(2) in subsection (b), by striking ``high-performance
computing'' and inserting ``networking and information
technology''.
(q) Repeal.--Section 208 of the High-Performance Computing Act of
1991 (15 U.S.C. 5528) is repealed.
(r) National Science Foundation Research.--Section 4(b)(5)(K) of
the Cyber Security Research and Development Act (15 U.S.C.
7403(b)(5)(K)) is amended by striking ``high-performance computing''
and inserting ``networking and information technology''.
(s) National Information Technology Research and Development
Program.--Section 13202(b) of the America Recovery and Reinvestment Act
of 2009 (42 U.S.C. 17912(b)) is amended by striking ``National High-
Performance Computing Program'' and inserting ``Networking and
Information Technology Research and Development Program''.
(t) Federal Cybersecurity Research and Development.--Section
201(a)(4) of the Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2014 (15 U.S.C.
7431(a)(4)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``clauses (i) through (x)'' and inserting
``clauses (i) through (xi)''; and
(2) by striking ``under clause (xi)'' and inserting ``under
clause (xii)''.
(u) Additional Repeal.--Section 4 of the Department of Energy High-
End Computing Revitalization Act of 2004 (15 U.S.C. 5543) is repealed.
SEC. 106. PHYSICAL SCIENCES COORDINATION.
(a) High-energy Physics.--
(1) In general.--The Physical Science Subcommittee of the
National Science and Technology Council (referred to in this
section as ``Subcommittee'') shall continue to coordinate Federal
efforts related to high-energy physics research to maximize the
efficiency and effectiveness of United States investment in high-
energy physics.
(2) Purposes.--The purposes of the Subcommittee include--
(A) to advise and assist the Committee on Science and the
National Science and Technology Council on United States
policies, procedures, and plans in the physical sciences,
including high-energy physics; and
(B) to identify emerging opportunities, stimulate
international cooperation, and foster the development of the
physical sciences in the United States, including--
(i) in high-energy physics research, including related
underground science and engineering research;
(ii) in physical infrastructure and facilities;
(iii) in information and analysis; and
(iv) in coordination activities.
(3) Responsibilities.--In regard to coordinating Federal
efforts related to high-energy physics research, the Subcommittee
shall, taking into account the findings and recommendations of
relevant advisory committees--
(A) provide recommendations on planning for construction
and stewardship of large facilities participating in high-
energy physics;
(B) provide recommendations on research coordination and
collaboration among the programs and activities of Federal
agencies related to underground science, neutrino research,
dark energy, and dark matter research;
(C) establish goals and priorities for high-energy physics,
related underground science, and research and development that
will strengthen United States competitiveness in high-energy
physics;
(D) propose methods for engagement with international,
Federal, and State agencies and Federal laboratories not
represented on the National Science and Technology Council to
identify and reduce regulatory, logistical, and fiscal barriers
that inhibit United States leadership in high-energy physics
and related underground science; and
(E) develop, and update as necessary, a strategic plan to
guide Federal programs and activities in support of high-energy
physics research, including--
(i) the efforts taken in support of paragraph (2) since
the last strategic plan;
(ii) an evaluation of the current research needs for
maintaining United States leadership in high-energy
physics; and
(iii) an identification of future priorities in the
area of high-energy physics.
(b) Radiation Biology.--
(1) In general.--The Subcommittee shall continue to coordinate
Federal efforts related to radiation biology research to maximize
the efficiency and effectiveness of United States investment in
radiation biology.
(2) Responsibilities for radiation biology.--In regard to
coordinating Federal efforts related to radiation biology research,
the Subcommittee shall--
(A) advise and assist the National Science and Technology
Council on policies and initiatives in radiation biology,
including enhancing scientific knowledge of the effects of low
dose radiation on biological systems to improve radiation risk
management methods;
(B) identify opportunities to stimulate international
cooperation and leverage research and knowledge from sources
outside of the United States;
(C) ensure coordination between the Department of Energy
Office of Science, Foundation, National Aeronautics and Space
Administration, National Institutes of Health, Environmental
Protection Agency, Department of Defense, Nuclear Regulatory
Commission, and Department of Homeland Security;
(D) identify ongoing scientific challenges for
understanding the long-term effects of ionizing radiation on
biological systems; and
(E) formulate overall scientific goals for the future of
low-dose radiation research in the United States.
(c) Fusion Energy Sciences.--
(1) In general.--The Subcommittee shall continue to coordinate
Federal efforts related to fusion energy research to maximize the
efficiency and effectiveness of United States investment in fusion
energy sciences.
(2) Responsibilities for fusion energy sciences.--In regard to
coordinating Federal efforts related to fusion energy sciences, the
Subcommittee shall--
(A) advise and assist the National Science and Technology
Council on policies and initiatives in fusion energy sciences,
including enhancing scientific knowledge of fusion energy
science, plasma physics, and related materials sciences;
(B) identify opportunities to stimulate international
cooperation and leverage research and knowledge from sources
outside of the United States, including the ITER project;
(C) ensure coordination between the Department of Energy
Office of Science, National Nuclear Security Administration,
Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy, National Aeronautics
and Space Administration, Foundation, and Department of Defense
regarding fusion energy sciences and plasma physics; and
(D) formulate overall scientific goals for the future of
fusion energy sciences and plasma physics.
SEC. 107. LABORATORY PROGRAM IMPROVEMENTS.
(a) In General.--The Director of NIST, acting through the Associate
Director for Laboratory Programs, shall develop and implement a
comprehensive strategic plan for laboratory programs that expands--
(1) interactions with academia, international researchers, and
industry; and
(2) commercial and industrial applications.
(b) Optimizing Commercial and Industrial Applications.--In
accordance with the purpose under section 1(b)(3) of the National
Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 271(b)(3)), the
comprehensive strategic plan shall--
(1) include performance metrics for the dissemination of
fundamental research results, measurements, and standards research
results to industry, including manufacturing, and other interested
parties;
(2) document any positive benefits of research on the
competitiveness of the interested parties described in paragraph
(1);
(3) clarify the current approach to the technology transfer
activities of NIST; and
(4) consider recommendations from the National Academy of
Sciences.
SEC. 108. STANDARD REFERENCE DATA ACT UPDATE.
Section 2 of the Standard Reference Data Act (15 U.S.C. 290a) is
amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
``For the purposes of this Act:
``(1) Standard reference data.--The term `standard reference
data' means data that is--
``(A) either--
``(i) quantitative information related to a measurable
physical, or chemical, or biological property of a
substance or system of substances of known composition and
structure;
``(ii) measurable characteristics of a physical
artifact or artifacts;
``(iii) engineering properties or performance
characteristics of a system; or
``(iv) 1 or more digital data objects that serve--
``(I) to calibrate or characterize the performance
of a detection or measurement system; or
``(II) to interpolate or extrapolate, or both, data
described in subparagraph (A) through (C); and
``(B) that is critically evaluated as to its reliability
under section 3 of this Act.
``(2) Secretary.--The term `Secretary' means the Secretary of
Commerce.''.
SEC. 109. NSF MID-SCALE PROJECT INVESTMENTS.
(a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
(1) The Foundation funds major research facilities,
infrastructure, and instrumentation that provide unique
capabilities at the frontiers of science and engineering.
(2) Modern and effective research facilities, infrastructure,
and instrumentation are critical to maintaining United States
leadership in science and engineering.
(3) The costs of some proposed research instrumentation,
equipment, and upgrades to major research facilities fall between
programs currently funded by the Foundation, creating a gap between
the established parameters of the Major Research Instrumentation
and Major Research Equipment and Facilities Construction programs,
including projects that have been identified as cost-effective
additions of high priority to the advancement of scientific
understanding.
(4) The 2010 Astronomy and Astrophysics Decadal Survey
recommended a mid-scale innovations program.
(b) Mid-scale Projects.--
(1) In general.--The Foundation shall evaluate the existing and
future needs, across all disciplines supported by the Foundation,
for mid-scale projects.
(2) Strategy.--The Director of the Foundation shall develop a
strategy to address the needs identified in paragraph (1).
(3) Briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Director of the Foundation shall provide
a briefing to the appropriate committees of Congress on the
evaluation under paragraph (1) and the strategy under paragraph
(2).
(4) Definition of mid-scale projects.--In this subsection, the
term ``mid-scale projects'' means research instrumentation,
equipment, and upgrades to major research facilities or other
research infrastructure investments that exceed the maximum award
funded by the major research instrumentation program and are below
the minimum award funded by the major research equipment and
facilities construction program as described in section 507 of the
AMERICA Competes Reauthorization Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-358;
124 Stat. 4008).
SEC. 110. OVERSIGHT OF NSF MAJOR MULTI-USER RESEARCH FACILITY
PROJECTS.
(a) Facilities Oversight.--
(1) In general.--The Director of the Foundation shall
strengthen oversight and accountability over the full life-cycle of
each major multi-user research facility project, including
planning, development, procurement, construction, operations, and
support, and shut-down of the facility, in order to maximize
research investment.
(2) Requirements.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the Director
shall--
(A) prioritize the scientific outcomes of a major multi-
user research facility project and the internal management and
financial oversight of the major multi-user research facility
project;
(B) clarify the roles and responsibilities of all
organizations, including offices, panels, committees, and
directorates, involved in supporting a major multi-user
research facility project, including the role of the Major
Research Equipment and Facilities Construction Panel;
(C) establish policies and procedures for the planning,
management, and oversight of a major multi-user research
facility project at each phase of the life-cycle of the major
multi-user research facility project;
(D) ensure that policies for estimating and managing costs
and schedules are consistent with the best practices described
in the Government Accountability Office Cost Estimating and
Assessment Guide, the Government Accountability Office Schedule
Assessment Guide, and the Office of Management and Budget
Uniform Guidance (2 C.F.R. Part 200);
(E) establish the appropriate project management and
financial management expertise required for Foundation staff to
oversee each major multi-user research facility project
effectively, including by improving project management training
and certification;
(F) coordinate the sharing of the best management practices
and lessons learned from each major multi-user research
facility project;
(G) continue to maintain a Large Facilities Office to
support the research directorates in the development,
implementation, and oversight of each major multi-user research
facility project, including by--
(i) serving as the Foundation's primary resource for
all policy or process issues related to the development,
implementation, and oversight of a major multi-user
research facility project;
(ii) serving as a Foundation-wide resource on project
management, including providing expert assistance on
nonscientific and nontechnical aspects of project planning,
budgeting, implementation, management, and oversight;
(iii) coordinating and collaborating with research
directorates to share best management practices and lessons
learned from prior major multi-user research facility
projects; and
(iv) assessing each major multi-user research facility
project for cost and schedule risk; and
(H) appoint a senior agency official whose responsibility
is oversight of the development, construction, and operations
of major multi-user research facilities across the Foundation.
(b) Facilities Full Life-cycle Costs.--
(1) In general.--Subject to subsection (c)(1), the Director of
the Foundation shall require that any pre-award analysis of a major
multi-user research facility project includes the development and
consideration of the full life-cycle cost (as defined in section 2
of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1998 (42
U.S.C. 1862k note)) in accordance with section 14 of the National
Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2002 (42 U.S.C. 1862n-4).
(2) Implementation.--Based on the pre-award analysis described
in paragraph (1), the Director of the Foundation shall include
projected operational costs within the Foundation's out-years as
part of the President's annual budget submission to Congress under
section 1105 of title 31, United States Code.
(c) Cost Oversight.--
(1) Pre-award analysis.--
(A) In general.--The Director of the Foundation and the
National Science Board may not approve or execute any agreement
to start construction on any proposed major multi-user research
facility project unless--
(i) an external analysis of the proposed budget has
been conducted to ensure the proposal is complete and
reasonable;
(ii) the analysis under clause (i) follows the
Government Accountability Office Cost Estimating and
Assessment Guide;
(iii) except as provided under subparagraph (C), an
analysis of the accounting systems has been conducted;
(iv) an independent cost estimate of the construction
of the project has been conducted using the same detailed
technical information as the project proposal estimate to
determine whether the estimate is well-supported and
realistic; and
(v) the Foundation and the National Science Board have
considered the analyses under clauses (i) and (iii) and the
independent cost estimate under clause (iv) and resolved
any major issues identified therein.
(B) Audits.--An external analysis under subparagraph (A)(i)
may include an audit.
(C) Exception.--The Director of the Foundation, at the
Director's discretion, may waive the requirement under
subparagraph (A)(iii) if a similar analysis of the accounting
systems was conducted in the prior years.
(2) Construction oversight.--The Director of the Foundation
shall require for each major multi-user research facility project--
(A) periodic external reviews on project management and
performance;
(B) adequate internal controls, policies, and procedures,
and reliable accounting systems in preparation for the incurred
cost audits under subparagraph (D);
(C) annual incurred cost submissions of financial
expenditures; and
(D) an incurred cost audit of the major multi-user research
facility project in accordance with Government Accountability
Office Government Auditing Standards--
(i) at least once during construction at a time
determined based on risk analysis and length of the award,
except that the length of time between audits may not
exceed 3 years; and
(ii) at the completion of the construction phase.
(3) Operations cost analysis.--The Director of the Foundation
shall require an independent cost analysis of the operational
proposal for each major multi-user research facility project.
(d) Contingency.--
(1) In general.--The Director of the Foundation shall
strengthen internal controls to improve oversight of contingency on
a major multi-user research facility project.
(2) Requirements.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the Director
of the Foundation shall--
(A) only include contingency amounts in an award in
accordance with section 200.433 of title 2, Code of Federal
Regulations (relating to contingency provisions), or any
successor regulation;
(B) retain control over funds budgeted for contingency,
except that the Director may disburse budgeted contingency
funds incrementally to the awardee to ensure project stability
and continuity;
(C) track contingency use; and
(D) ensure that contingency amounts allocated to the
performance baseline are reasonable and allowable.
(e) Use of Fees.--
(1) Sense of congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(A) the use of taxpayer-funded award fees should be
transparent and explicable; and
(B) the Foundation should implement an award fee policy
that ensures more transparency and accountability in the
funding of necessary and appropriate expenses directly related
to the construction and operation of major multi-user research
facilities.
(2) Reporting and recordkeeping.--The Director of the
Foundation shall establish guidelines for awardees regarding
inappropriate expenditures associated with all fee types used in
cooperative agreements, including for alcoholic beverages,
lobbying, meals or entertainment for non-business purposes, non-
business travel, and any other purpose the Director determines is
inappropriate.
(f) Oversight Implementation Progress.--The Director of the
Foundation shall--
(1) not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this
Act, and periodically thereafter until the completion date, provide
a briefing to the appropriate committees of Congress on the
response to or progress made toward implementation of--
(A) this section;
(B) all of the issues and recommendations identified in
cooperative agreement audit reports and memoranda issued by the
Inspector General of the Foundation in the last 5 years; and
(C) all of the issues and recommendations identified by a
panel of the National Academy of Public Administration in the
December 2015 report entitled ``National Science Foundation:
Use of Cooperative Agreements to Support Large Scale Investment
in Research''; and
(2) not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this
Act, notify the appropriate committees of Congress when the
Foundation has implemented the recommendations identified in a
panel of the National Academy of Public Administration report
issued December 2015.
(g) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Appropriate committees of congress.--The term ``appropriate
committees of Congress'' means the Committee on Commerce, Science,
and Transportation and the Committee on Appropriations of the
Senate and the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and the
Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives.
(2) Major multi-user research facility project.--The term
```major multi-user research facility project''' means a science
and engineering facility project that--
(A) exceeds the lesser of--
(i) 10 percent of a Directorate's annual budget; or
(ii) $100,000,000 in total project costs; or
(B) is funded by the major research equipment and
facilities construction account, or any successor account.
SEC. 111. PERSONNEL OVERSIGHT.
(a) Conflicts of Interest.--The Director of the Foundation shall
update the policy and procedure of the Foundation relating to conflicts
of interest to improve documentation and management of any known
conflict of interest of an individual on temporary assignment at the
Foundation, including an individual on assignment under the
Intergovernmental Personnel Act of 1970 (42 U.S.C. 4701 et seq.).
(b) Justifications.--The Deputy Director of the Foundation shall
submit annually to the appropriate committees of Congress written
justification for each rotator employed under the Intergovernmental
Personnel Act of 1970 (42 U.S.C. 4701 et seq.), or other rotator
employed, by the Foundation that year that is paid at a rate that
exceeds the maximum rate of pay for the Senior Executive Service,
including, if applicable, the level of adjustment for the certified
Senior Executive Service Performance Appraisal System.
(c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
this Act, the Director of the Foundation shall submit to the
appropriate committees of Congress a report on the Foundation's efforts
to control costs associated with employing rotators, including the
results of and participation in the Foundation's cost-sharing pilot
program and the Foundation's progress in responding to the findings and
implementing the recommendations of the Office of Inspector General of
the Foundation related to the employment of rotators.
SEC. 112. MANAGEMENT OF THE U.S. ANTARCTIC PROGRAM.
(a) Review.--
(1) In general.--The Director of the Foundation shall continue
to review the efforts by the Foundation to sustain and strengthen
scientific efforts in the face of logistical challenges for the
United States Antarctic Program.
(2) Issues to be examined.--In conducting the review, the
Director shall examine, at a minimum, the following:
(A) Implementation by the Foundation of issues and
recommendations identified by--
(i) the Inspector General of the National Science
Foundation in audit reports and memoranda on the United
States Antarctic Program in the last 4 years;
(ii) the U.S. Antarctic Program Blue Ribbon Panel
report, More and Better Science in Antarctica through
Increased Logistical Effectiveness, issued July 23, 2012;
and
(iii) the National Research Council report, Future
Science Opportunities in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean,
issued September 2011.
(B) Efforts by the Foundation to track its progress in
addressing the issues and recommendations under subparagraph
(A).
(C) Efforts by the Foundation to address other
opportunities and challenges, including efforts on scientific
research, coordination with other Federal agencies and
international partners, logistics and transportation, health
and safety of participants, oversight and financial management
of awardees and contractors, and resources and policy
challenges.
(b) Briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Director shall brief the appropriate committees of
Congress on the ongoing review, including findings and any
recommendations.
SEC. 113. NIST CAMPUS SECURITY.
(a) Supervisory Authority.--The Department of Commerce Office of
Security shall directly manage the law enforcement and site security
programs of NIST through an assigned Director of Security for NIST
without increasing the number of full-time equivalent employees of the
Department of Commerce, including NIST.
(b) Reports.--The Director of Security for NIST shall provide an
activities and security report on a quarterly basis for the first year
after the date of enactment of this Act, and on an annual basis
thereafter, to the Under Secretary for Standards and Technology and the
appropriate committees of Congress.
SEC. 114. COORDINATION OF SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY RESEARCH AND
DEVELOPMENT.
(a) Importance of Sustainable Chemistry.--It is the sense of
Congress that--
(1) the science of chemistry is vital to improving the quality
of human life and plays an important role in addressing critical
global challenges, including water quality, energy, health care,
and agriculture;
(2) sustainable chemistry can reduce risks to human health and
the environment, reduce waste, improve pollution prevention,
promote safe and efficient manufacturing, and promote efficient use
of resources in developing new materials, processes, and
technologies that support viable long-term solutions to a
significant number of challenges;
(3) sustainable chemistry can stimulate innovation, encourage
new and creative approaches to problems, create jobs, and save
money; and
(4) a coordinated effort on sustainable chemistry will allow
for a greater return on research investment in this area.
(b) Sustainable Chemistry Basic Research.--Subject to the
availability of appropriated funds, the Director of the Foundation may
continue to carry out the Sustainable Chemistry Basic Research program
authorized under section 509 of the National Science Foundation
Authorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 1862p-3).
SEC. 115. MISREPRESENTATION OF RESEARCH RESULTS.
(a) Prohibition.--The Director of the Foundation may revise the
regulations under part 689 of title 45, Code of Federal Regulations
(relating to research misconduct) to ensure that the findings and
conclusions of any article authored by a principal investigator, using
the results of research conducted under a Foundation grant, that is
published in a peer-reviewed publication, made publicly available, or
incorporated in an application for a research grant or grant extension
from the Foundation, does not contain any falsification, fabrication,
or plagiarism.
(b) Interagency Communication.--Upon a finding that research
misconduct has occurred, the Foundation shall, in addition to any
possible final action under section 689.3 of title 45, Code of Federal
Regulations, notify other Federal science agencies of the finding.
SEC. 116. RESEARCH REPRODUCIBILITY AND REPLICATION.
(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) the gold standard of good science is the ability of a
researcher or research laboratory to reproduce a published research
finding, including methods;
(2) there is growing concern that some published research
findings cannot be reproduced or replicated, which can negatively
affect the public's trust in science;
(3) there are a complex set of factors affecting
reproducibility and replication; and
(4) the increasing interdisciplinary nature and complexity of
scientific research may be a contributing factor to issues with
research reproducibility and replication.
(b) Report.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 45 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Director of the Foundation shall enter
into an agreement with the National Research Council--
(A) to assess research and data reproducibility and
replicability issues in interdisciplinary research;
(B) to make recommendations for improving rigor and
transparency in scientific research; and
(C) to submit to the Director of the Foundation a report on
the assessment, including its findings and recommendations, not
later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act.
(2) Submission to congress.--Not later than 60 days after the
date the Director of the Foundation receives the report under
paragraph (1)(C), the Director shall submit the report to the
appropriate committees of Congress, including a response from the
Director of the Foundation and the Chair of the National Science
Board as to whether they agree with each of the findings and
recommendations in the report.
SEC. 117. BRAIN RESEARCH THROUGH ADVANCING INNOVATIVE
NEUROTECHNOLOGIES INITIATIVE.
(a) In General.--The Foundation shall support research activities
related to the interagency Brain Research through Advancing Innovative
Neurotechnologies Initiative.
(b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the
Foundation should work in conjunction with the Interagency Working
Group on Neuroscience established by the National Science and
Technology Council, Committee on Science to determine how to use the
data infrastructure of the Foundation and other applicable Federal
science agencies to help neuroscientists collect, standardize, manage,
and analyze the large amounts of data that result from research
attempting to understand how the brain functions.
TITLE II--ADMINISTRATIVE AND REGULATORY BURDEN REDUCTION
SEC. 201. INTERAGENCY WORKING GROUP ON RESEARCH REGULATION.
(a) Short Title.--This section may be cited as the ``Research and
Development Efficiency Act''.
(b) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Scientific and technological advancement have been the
largest drivers of economic growth in the last 50 years, with the
Federal Government being the largest investor in basic research.
(2) Substantial and increasing administrative burdens and costs
in Federal research administration, particularly in the higher
education sector where most federally funded research is performed,
are eroding funds available to carry out basic scientific research.
(3) Federally funded grants are increasingly competitive, with
the Foundation funding only approximately 1 in every 5 grant
proposals.
(4) Progress has been made over the last decade in streamlining
the pre-award grant application process through the Federal
Government's Grants.gov website.
(5) Post-award administrative costs have increased as Federal
research agencies have continued to impose agency-unique compliance
and reporting requirements on researchers and research
institutions.
(6) Researchers spend as much as 42 percent of their time
complying with Federal regulations, including administrative tasks
such as applying for grants or meeting reporting requirements.
(c) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) administrative burdens faced by researchers may be reducing
the return on investment of federally funded research and
development; and
(2) it is a matter of critical importance to United States
competitiveness that administrative costs of federally funded
research be streamlined so that a higher proportion of federal
funding is applied to direct research activities.
(d) Establishment.--The Director of the Office of Management and
Budget, in coordination with the Office of Science and Technology
Policy, shall establish an interagency working group (referred to in
this section as the ``Working Group'') for the purpose of reducing
administrative burdens on federally funded researchers while protecting
the public interest through the transparency of and accountability for
federally funded activities.
(e) Responsibilities.--
(1) In general.--The Working Group shall--
(A) regularly review relevant, administration-related
regulations imposed on federally funded researchers;
(B) recommend those regulations or processes that may be
eliminated, streamlined, or otherwise improved for the purpose
described in subsection (d);
(C) recommend ways to minimize the regulatory burden on
United States institutions of higher education performing
federally funded research while maintaining accountability for
federal funding; and
(D) recommend ways to identify and update specific
regulations to refocus on performance-based goals rather than
on process while achieving the outcome described in
subparagraph (C).
(2) Grant review.--
(A) In general.--The Working Group shall--
(i) conduct a comprehensive review of Federal science
agency grant proposal documents; and
(ii) develop, to the extent practicable, a simplified,
uniform grant format to be used by all Federal science
agencies.
(B) Considerations.--In developing the uniform grant
format, the Working Group shall consider whether to implement--
(i) procedures for preliminary project proposals in
advance of peer-review selection;
(ii) increased use of ``Just-In-Time'' procedures for
documentation that does not bear directly on the scientific
merit of a proposal;
(iii) simplified initial budget proposals in advance of
peer review selection; and
(iv) detailed budget proposals for applicants that peer
review selection identifies as likely to be funded.
(3) Centralized researcher profile database.--
(A) Establishment.--The Working Group shall establish, to
the extent practicable, a secure, centralized database for
investigator biosketches, curriculum vitae, licenses, lists of
publications, and other documents considered relevant by the
Working Group.
(B) Considerations.--In establishing the centralized
profile database under subparagraph (A), the Working Group
shall consider incorporating existing investigator databases.
(C) Grant proposals.--To the extent practicable, all grant
proposals shall utilize the centralized investigator profile
database established under subparagraph (A).
(D) Requirements.--Each investigator shall--
(i) be responsible for ensuring the investigator's
profile is current and accurate; and
(ii) be assigned a unique identifier linked to the
database and accessible to all Federal funding agencies.
(4) Centralized assurances repository.--The Working Group
shall--
(A) establish a central repository for all of the
assurances required for Federal research grants; and
(B) provide guidance to institutions of higher education
and Federal science agencies on the use of the centralized
assurances repository.
(5) Comprehensive review.--
(A) In general.--The Working Group shall--
(i) conduct a comprehensive review of the mandated
progress reports for federally funded research; and
(ii) develop a strategy to simplify investigator
progress reports.
(B) Considerations.--In developing the strategy, the
Working Group shall consider limiting progress reports to
performance outcomes.
(f) Consultation.--In carrying out its responsibilities under
subsection (e)(1), the Working Group shall consult with academic
researchers outside the Federal Government, including--
(1) federally funded researchers;
(2) non-federally funded researchers;
(3) institutions of higher education and their representative
associations;
(4) scientific and engineering disciplinary societies and
associations;
(5) nonprofit research institutions;
(6) industry, including small businesses;
(7) federally funded research and development centers; and
(8) members of the public with a stake in ensuring
effectiveness, efficiency, and accountability in the performance of
scientific research.
(g) Reports.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
this Act, and annually thereafter for 3 years, the Working Group shall
submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report on its
responsibilities under this section, including a discussion of the
considerations described in paragraphs (2)(B), (3)(B), and (5)(B) of
subsection (e) and recommendations made under subsection (e)(1).
SEC. 202. SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL COLLABORATION.
(a) Definition of Scientific and Technical Workshop.--In this
section, the term ``scientific and technical workshop'' means a
symposium, seminar, or any other organized, formal gathering where
scientists or engineers working in STEM research and development fields
assemble to coordinate, exchange and disseminate information or to
explore or clarify a defined subject, problem or area of knowledge in
the STEM fields.
(b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) the United States should encourage broad dissemination of
Federal research findings and engagement of Federal researchers
with the scientific and technical community; and
(2) laboratory, test center, and field center directors and
other similar heads of offices should approve scientific and
technical workshop attendance if--
(A) that attendance would meet the mission of the
laboratory or test center; and
(B) sufficient laboratory or test center funds are
available for that purpose.
(c) Attendance Policies.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the heads of the Federal science agencies shall
each develop an action plan for the implementation of revisions and
updates to their policies on attendance at scientific and technical
workshops.
(d) NIST Workshops.--Section 2(c) of the National Institute of
Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 272(c)), as amended by section
104 of this Act, is further amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (19) through (24) as paragraphs
(22) through (27), respectively; and
(2) by inserting after paragraph (18) the following:
``(19) host, participate in, and support scientific and
technical workshops (as defined in section 202 of the American
Innovation and Competitiveness Act);
``(20) collect and retain any fees charged by the Secretary for
hosting a scientific and technical workshop described in paragraph
(19);
``(21) notwithstanding title 31 of the United States Code, use
the fees described in paragraph (20) to pay for any related
expenses, including subsistence expenses for participants;''.
SEC. 203. NIST GRANTS AND COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS UPDATE.
Section 8(a) of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of
1980 (15 U.S.C. 3706(a)) is amended by striking ``The total amount of
any such grant or cooperative agreement may not exceed 75 percent of
the total cost of the program.''.
SEC. 204. REPEAL OF CERTAIN OBSOLETE REPORTS.
(a) Repeal of Certain Obsolete Reports.--
(1) NIST reports.--
(A) Report on donation of educationally useful federal
equipment to schools.--Section 6(b) of the Technology
Administration Act of 1998 (15 U.S.C. 272 note) is amended--
(i) in paragraph (1), by striking ``(1) In general.--''
and indenting appropriately; and
(ii) by striking paragraph (2).
(B) Three-year programmatic planning document.--
(i) In general.--Section 23 of the National Institute
of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278i) is amended
by striking subsections (c) and (d).
(ii) Conforming amendment.--Section 10(h)(1) of the
National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15
U.S.C. 278(h)(1)) is amended by striking the last sentence.
(2) Multiagency report on innovation acceleration research.--
Section 1008 of the America COMPETES Act (42 U.S.C. 6603) is
amended--
(A) by striking subsection (c); and
(B) by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (c).
(3) NSF reports.--
(A) Funding for successful stem education programs; report
to congress.--Section 7012 of the America COMPETES Act (42
U.S.C. 1862o-4) is amended by striking subsection (c).
(B) Encouraging participation; evaluation and report.--
Section 7031 of the America COMPETES Act (42 U.S.C. 1862o-11)
is amended by striking subsection (b).
(C) Math and science partnerships program coordination
report.--Section 9(c) of the National Science Foundation
Authorization Act of 2002 (42 U.S.C. 1862n(c)) is amended--
(i) by striking paragraph (4); and
(ii) by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (4).
(b) National Nanotechnology Initiative Reports.--The 21st Century
Nanotechnology Research and Development Act (15 U.S.C. 7501 et seq.) is
amended--
(1) by amending section 2(c)(4) (15 U.S.C. 7501(c)(4)) to read
as follows:
``(4) develop, not later than 5 years after the date of the
release of the most-recent strategic plan, and update every 5 years
thereafter, a strategic plan to guide the activities described
under subsection (b) that describes--
``(A) the near-term and long-term objectives for the
Program;
``(B) the anticipated schedule for achieving the near-term
objectives; and
``(C) the metrics that will be used to assess progress
toward the near-term and long-term objectives;
``(D) how the Program will move results out of the
laboratory and into application for the benefit of society;
``(E) the Program's support for long-term funding for
interdisciplinary research and development in nanotechnology;
and
``(F) the allocation of funding for interagency
nanotechnology projects;'';
(2) by amending section 4(d) (15 U.S.C. 7503(d)) to read as
follows:
``(d) Reports.--Not later than 4 years after the date of the most
recent assessment under subsection (c), and quadrennially thereafter,
the Advisory Panel shall submit to the President, the Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee
on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives a
report its assessments under subsection (c) and its recommendations for
ways to improve the Program.''; and
(3) in section 5 (15 U.S.C. 7504)--
(A) in the heading, by striking ``triennial'' and inserting
``quadrennial'';
(B) in subsection (a), in the matter preceding paragraph
(1), by striking ``triennial'' and inserting ``quadrennial'';
(C) in subsection (b), by striking ``triennial'' and
inserting ``quadrennial'';
(D) in subsection (c), by striking ``triennial'' and
inserting ``quadrennial''; and
(E) by amending subsection (d) to read as follows:
``(d) Report.--
``(1) In general.--Not later than 30 days after the date the
first evaluation under subsection (a) is received, and
quadrennially thereafter, the Director of the National
Nanotechnology Coordination Office shall report to the President
its assessments under subsection (c) and its recommendations for
ways to improve the Program.
``(2) Congress.--Not later than 30 days after the date the
President receives the report under paragraph (1), the Director of
the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall transmit a copy
of the report to Congress.''.
(c) Major Research Equipment and Facilities Construction.--Section
14 of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2002 (42
U.S.C. 1862n-4) is amended--
(1) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows:
``(a) Prioritization of Proposed Major Research Equipment and
Facilities Construction.--
``(1) Development of priorities.--The Director shall--
``(A) develop a list indicating by number the relative
priority for funding under the major research equipment and
facilities construction account that the Director assigns to
each project the Board has approved for inclusion in a future
budget request; and
``(B) submit the list described in subparagraph (A) to the
Board for approval.
``(2) Criteria.--The Director shall include in the criteria for
developing the list under paragraph (1) the readiness of plans for
construction and operation, including confidence in the estimates
of the full life-cycle cost (as defined in section 2 of the
National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1998 (42 U.S.C.
1862k note)) and the proposed schedule of completion.
``(3) Updates.--The Director shall update the list prepared
under paragraph (1) each time the Board approves a new project that
would receive funding under the major research equipment and
facilities construction account and periodically submit any updated
list to the Board for approval.'';
(2) by striking subsection (e);
(3) by redesignating subsections (c) and (d) as subsections (b)
and (c), respectively; and
(4) by amending subsection (c), as redesignated, to read as
follows:
``(c) Board Approval of Major Research Equipment and Facilities
Projects.--The Board shall explicitly approve any project to be funded
out of the major research equipment and facilities construction account
before any funds may be obligated from such account for such
project.''.
SEC. 205. REPEAL OF CERTAIN PROVISIONS.
(a) Technology Innovation Program.--
(1) In general.--Section 28 of the National Institute of
Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278n) is repealed.
(2) Conforming amendments.--
(A) Additional award criteria.--Section 4226(b) of the
Small Business Jobs Act of 2010 (15 U.S.C. 278n note) is
repealed.
(B) Management costs.--Section 2(d) of the National
Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 272(d)) is
amended by striking ``sections 25, 26, and 28'' and inserting
``sections 25 and 26''.
(C) Annual and other reports to secretary and congress.--
Section 10(h)(1) of the National Institute of Standards and
Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278(h)(1)) is amended by striking ``,
including the Program established under section 28,''.
(b) Teachers for a Competitive Tomorrow.--Sections 6111 through
6116 of the America COMPETES Act (20 U.S.C. 9811, 9812, 9813, 9814,
9815, 9816) and the items relating to those sections in the table of
contents under section 2 of that Act (Public Law 110-69; 121 Stat. 572)
are repealed.
SEC. 206. GRANT SUBRECIPIENT TRANSPARENCY AND OVERSIGHT.
(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Inspector General of the Foundation shall prepare and
submit to the appropriate committees of Congress an audit of the
Foundation's policies and procedures governing the monitoring of pass-
through entities with respect to subrecipients.
(b) Contents.--The audit shall include the following:
(1) Information regarding the Foundation's process to oversee--
(A) the compliance of pass-through entities under section
200.331 and subpart F of part 200 of chapter II of subtitle A
of title 2, Code of Federal Regulations, and the other
requirements of that title for subrecipients;
(B) whether pass-through entities have processes and
controls in place regarding financial compliance of
subrecipients, where appropriate; and
(C) whether pass-through entities have processes and
controls in place to maintain approved grant objectives for
subrecipients, where appropriate.
(2) Recommendations, if necessary, to increase transparency and
oversight while balancing administrative burdens.
SEC. 207. MICRO-PURCHASE THRESHOLD FOR PROCUREMENT SOLICITATIONS BY
RESEARCH INSTITUTIONS.
(a) Micro-purchase Threshold.--The micro-purchase threshold for
procurement activities administered under sections 6303 through 6305 of
title 31, United States Code, awarded by the Foundation, the National
Aeronautics and Space Administration, or the National Institute of
Standards and Technology to institutions of higher education, or
related or affiliated nonprofit entities, or to nonprofit research
organizations or independent research institutes is--
(1) $10,000 (as adjusted periodically to account for
inflation); or
(2) such higher threshold as determined appropriate by the head
of the relevant executive agency and consistent with audit findings
under chapter 75 of title 31, United States Code, internal
institutional risk assessment, or State law.
(b) Uniform Guidance.--The Uniform Guidance shall be revised to
conform with the requirements of this section. For purposes of the
preceding sentence, the term ``Uniform Guidance'' means the uniform
administrative requirements, cost principles, and audit requirements
for Federal awards contained in part 200 of title 2 of the Code of
Federal Regulations.
SEC. 208. COORDINATION OF INTERNATIONAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
PARTNERSHIPS.
(a) Short Title.--This section may be cited as the ``International
Science and Technology Cooperation Act of 2016''.
(b) Establishment.--The Director of the Office of Science and
Technology Policy shall establish a body under the National Science and
Technology Council with the responsibility to identify and coordinate
international science and technology cooperation that can strengthen
the United States science and technology enterprise, improve economic
and national security, and support United States foreign policy goals.
(c) NSTC Body Leadership.--The body established under subsection
(b) shall be co-chaired by senior level officials from the Office of
Science and Technology Policy and the Department of State.
(d) Responsibilities.--The body established under subsection (b)
shall--
(1) plan and coordinate interagency international science and
technology cooperative research and training activities and
partnerships supported or managed by Federal agencies;
(2) work with other National Science and Technology Council
committees to help plan and coordinate the international component
of national science and technology priorities;
(3) establish Federal priorities and policies for aligning, as
appropriate, international science and technology cooperative
research and training activities and partnerships supported or
managed by Federal agencies with the foreign policy goals of the
United States;
(4) identify opportunities for new international science and
technology cooperative research and training partnerships that
advance both the science and technology and the foreign policy
priorities of the United States;
(5) in carrying out paragraph (4), solicit input and
recommendations from non-Federal science and technology
stakeholders, including institutions of higher education,
scientific and professional societies, industry, and other relevant
organizations and institutions; and
(6) identify broad issues that influence the ability of United
States scientists and engineers to collaborate with foreign
counterparts, including barriers to collaboration and access to
scientific information.
(e) Report to Congress.--The Director of the Office of Science and
Technology Policy shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science,
and Transportation and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate
and the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and the Committee
on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives a biennial report on
the requirements of this section.
(f) Website.--The Director shall make each report available to the
public on the Office of Science and Technology Policy website.
(g) Termination.--The body established under subsection (b) shall
terminate on the date that is 10 years after the date of enactment of
this Act.
(h) Additional Reports to Congress.--The Director of the Office of
Science and Technology Policy shall submit, not later than 60 days
after the date of enactment of this Act and annually thereafter, to the
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the Committee on
Foreign Relations of the Senate and the Committee on Science, Space,
and Technology and the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of
Representatives a report that lists and describes the details of all
foreign travel by Office of Science and Technology Policy staff and
detailees.
TITLE III--SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATH EDUCATION
SEC. 301. ROBERT NOYCE TEACHER SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM UPDATE.
Section 10A of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of
2002 (42 U.S.C. 1862n-1a) is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``(k) STEM Teacher Service and Retention.--
``(1) In general.--The Director shall develop and implement
practices for increasing the proportion of individuals receiving
fellowships under this section who--
``(A) fulfill the service obligation required under
subsection (h); and
``(B) remain in the teaching profession in a high need
local educational agency beyond the service obligation.
``(2) Practices.--The practices described under paragraph (1)
may include--
``(A) partnering with nonprofit or professional
associations or with other government entities to provide
individuals receiving fellowships under this section with
opportunities for professional development, including
mentorship programs that pair those individuals with currently
employed and recently retired science, technology, engineering,
mathematics, or computer science professionals;
``(B) increasing recruitment from high need districts;
``(C) establishing a system to better collect, track, and
respond to data on the career decisions of individuals
receiving fellowships under this section;
``(D) conducting research to better understand factors
relevant to teacher service and retention, including factors
specifically impacting the retention of teachers who are
individuals identified in sections 33 and 34 of the Science and
Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a, 1885b);
and
``(E) conducting pilot programs to improve teacher service
and retention.''.
SEC. 302. SPACE GRANTS.
(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the
National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program has been an
important program by which the Federal Government has partnered with
universities, colleges, industry, and other organizations to provide
hands-on STEM experiences, fostering of multidisciplinary space
research, and supporting graduate fellowships in space-related fields,
among other purposes.
(b) Administrative Costs.--Section 40303 of title 51, United States
Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(d) Program Administration Costs.--In carrying out the provisions
of this chapter, the Administrator--
``(1) shall maximize appropriated funds for grants and
contracts made under section 40304 in each fiscal year; and
``(2) in each fiscal year, the Administrator shall limit its
program administration costs to no more than 5 percent of funds
appropriated for this program for that fiscal year.
``(e) Reports.--For any fiscal year in which the Administrator
cannot meet the administration cost target under subsection (d)(2), if
the Administration is unable to limit program costs under subsection
(b), the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of
Congress a report, including--
``(1) a description of why the Administrator did not meet the
cost target under subsection (d); and
``(2) the measures the Administrator will take in the next
fiscal year to meet the cost target under subsection (d) without
drawing upon other Federal funding.''.
SEC. 303. STEM EDUCATION ADVISORY PANEL.
(a) Establishment.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
enactment this Act, the Director of the Foundation, Secretary of
Education, Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space
Administration, and Administrator of the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration shall jointly establish an advisory panel
(referred to in this section as the ``STEM Education Advisory Panel'')
to advise the Committee on STEM Education of the National Science and
Technology Council (referred to in this section as ``CoSTEM'') on
matters relating to STEM education.
(b) Members.--
(1) In general.--The STEM Education Advisory Panel shall be
composed of not less than 11 members.
(2) Appointment.--
(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), the Director
of the Foundation, in consultation with the Secretary of
Education and the heads of the Federal science agencies, shall
appoint the members of the STEM Education Advisory Panel.
(B) Consideration.--In selecting individuals to appoint
under subparagraph (A), the Director of the Foundation shall
seek and give consideration to recommendations from Congress,
industry, the scientific community, including the National
Academy of Sciences, scientific professional societies,
academia, State and local governments, organizations
representing individuals identified in section 33 or section 34
of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42
U.S.C. 1885a, 1885b), and such other organizations as the
Director considers appropriate.
(C) Qualifications.--Members shall--
(i) primarily be individuals from academic
institutions, nonprofit organizations, and industry,
including in-school, out-of-school, and informal education
practitioners; and
(ii) be individuals who are qualified to provide advice
and information on STEM education research, development,
training, implementation, interventions, professional
development, or workforce needs or concerns.
(c) Responsibilities.--
(1) In general.--The STEM Education Advisory Panel shall--
(A) advise CoSTEM;
(B) periodically assess CoSTEM's progress in carrying out
its responsibilities under section 101(b) of the America
COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 6621(b)); and
(C) help identify any need or opportunity to update the
strategic plan under section 101(b) of that Act.
(2) Considerations.--In its advisory role, the STEM Education
Advisory Panel shall consider--
(A) the management, coordination, and implementation of
STEM education programs and activities across the Federal
Government;
(B) the appropriateness of criteria used by Federal
agencies to evaluate the effectiveness of Federal STEM
education programs and activities;
(C) whether societal and workforce concerns are adequately
addressed by current Federal STEM education programs and
activities;
(D) how Federal agencies can incentivize institutions of
higher education to improve retention of STEM students;
(E) ways to leverage private and nonprofit STEM investments
and encourage public-private partnerships to strengthen STEM
education and help build the STEM workforce pipeline;
(F) ways to incorporate workforce needs into Federal STEM
education programs and activities, particularly for specific
employment fields of national interest and employment fields
experiencing high unemployment rates;
(G) ways to better vertically and horizontally integrate
Federal STEM education programs and activities from pre-
kindergarten through graduate study and the workforce, and from
in-school to out-of-school in order to improve transitions for
students moving through the STEM education and workforce
pipelines;
(H) the extent to which Federal STEM education programs and
activities are contributing to recruitment and retention of
individuals identified in sections 33 and 34 of the Science and
Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a, 1885b) in
the STEM education and workforce pipelines; and
(I) ways to encourage geographic diversity in the STEM
education and the workforce pipelines.
(3) Recommendations.--The STEM Education Advisory Panel shall
make recommendations to improve Federal STEM education programs and
activities based on each assessment under paragraph (1)(B).
(d) Funding.--The Director of the Foundation, the Secretary of
Education, the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space
Administration, and the Administrator of the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration shall jointly make funds available on an
annual basis to support the activities of the STEM Education Advisory
Panel.
(e) Reports.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
this Act, and after each assessment under subsection (c)(1)(B), the
STEM Education Advisory Panel shall submit to the appropriate
committees of Congress and CoSTEM a report on its assessment under that
subsection and its recommendations under subsection (c)(3).
(f) Travel Expenses of Non-Federal Members.--
(1) In general.--Non-Federal members of the STEM Education
Advisory Panel, while attending meetings of the panel or while
otherwise serving at the request of a co-chairperson away from
their homes or regular places of business, may be allowed travel
expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, as authorized
by section 5703 of title 5, United States Code, for individuals in
the Government serving without pay.
(2) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection shall be
construed to prohibit members of the STEM Advisory Panel who are
officers or employees of the United States from being allowed
travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in
accordance with existing law.
(g) Termination.--The STEM Education Advisory Panel established
under subsection (a) shall terminate on the date that is 5 years after
the date that it is established.
SEC. 304. COMMITTEE ON STEM EDUCATION.
(a) Responsibilities.--Section 101(b) of the America COMPETES
Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 6621(b)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (5)(D), by striking ``; and'' and inserting a
semicolon;
(2) in paragraph (6), by striking the period at the end and
inserting a semicolon; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(7) collaborate with the STEM Education Advisory Panel
established under section 303 of the American Innovation and
Competitiveness Act and other outside stakeholders to ensure the
engagement of the STEM education community;
``(8) review the measures used by a Federal agency to evaluate
its STEM education activities and programs;
``(9) request and review feedback from States on how the States
are utilizing Federal STEM education programs and activities; and
``(10) recommend the reform, termination, or consolidation of
Federal STEM education activities and programs, taking into
consideration the recommendations of the STEM Education Advisory
Panel.''.
(b) Reports.--Section 101 of the America COMPETES Reauthorization
Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 6621) is amended--
(1) by striking ``(c) Report.--'' and inserting ``(d)
Reports.--'';
(2) by striking ``(b) Responsibilities of OSTP.--'' and
inserting ``(c) Responsibilities of OSTP.--''; and
(3) in subsection (d), as redesignated--
(A) in paragraph (4), by striking ``; and'' and inserting a
semicolon;
(B) in paragraph (5), by striking the period at the end and
inserting a semicolon; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(6) a description of all consolidations and terminations of
Federal STEM education programs and activities implemented in the
previous fiscal year, including an explanation for the
consolidations and terminations;
``(7) recommendations for reforms, consolidations, and
terminations of STEM education programs or activities in the
upcoming fiscal year; and
``(8) a description of any significant new STEM education
public-private partnerships.''.
SEC. 305. PROGRAMS TO EXPAND STEM OPPORTUNITIES.
(a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Economic projections by the Bureau of Labor Statistics
indicate that by 2018, there could be 2,400,000 unfilled STEM jobs.
(2) Women represent slightly more than half the United States
population, and projections indicate that 54 percent of the
population will be a member of a racial or ethnic minority group by
2050.
(3) Despite representing half the population, women comprise
only about 30 percent of STEM workers according to a 2015 report by
the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics.
(4) A 2014 National Center for Education Statistics study found
that underrepresented populations leave the STEM fields at higher
rates than their counterparts.
(5) The representation of women in STEM drops significantly at
the faculty level. Overall, women hold only 25 percent of all
tenured and tenure-track positions and 17 percent of full professor
positions in STEM fields in our Nation's universities and 4-year
colleges.
(6) Black and Hispanic faculty together hold about 6.5 percent
of all tenured and tenure-track positions and 5 percent of full
professor positions.
(7) Many of the numbers in the American Indian or Alaskan
Native and Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander categories for
different faculty ranks were too small for the Foundation to report
publicly without potentially compromising confidential information
about the individuals being surveyed.
(b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) it is critical to our Nation's economic leadership and
global competitiveness that the United States educate, train, and
retain more scientists, engineers, and computer scientists;
(2) there is currently a disconnect between the availability of
and growing demand for STEM-skilled workers;
(3) historically, underrepresented populations are the largest
untapped STEM talent pools in the United States; and
(4) given the shifting demographic landscape, the United States
should encourage full participation of individuals from
underrepresented populations in STEM fields.
(c) Reaffirmation.--The Director of the Foundation shall continue
to support programs designed to broaden participation of
underrepresented populations in STEM fields.
(d) Grants To Broaden Participation.--
(1) In general.--The Director of the Foundation shall award
grants on a competitive, merit-reviewed basis, to eligible entities
to increase the participation of underrepresented populations in
STEM fields, including individuals identified in section 33 or
section 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act
(42 U.S.C. 1885a, 1885b).
(2) Center of excellence.--
(A) In general.--Grants awarded under this subsection may
include grants for the establishment of a Center of Excellence
to collect, maintain, and disseminate information to increase
participation of underrepresented populations in STEM fields.
(B) Purpose.--The purpose of a Center of Excellence under
this subsection is to promote diversity in STEM fields by
building on the success of the INCLUDES programs, providing
technical assistance, maintaining best practices, and providing
related training at federally funded academic institutions.
(e) Accountability and Dissemination.--
(1) Evaluation.--
(A) In general.--Not later than 5 years after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Director of the Foundation shall
evaluate the grants provided under this section.
(B) Requirements.--In conducting the evaluation under
subparagraph (A), the Director shall--
(i) use a common set of benchmarks and assessment tools
to identify best practices and materials developed or
demonstrated by the research; and
(ii) to the extent practicable, combine the research
resulting from the grant activity under subsection (e) with
the current research on serving underrepresented students
in grades kindergarten through 8.
(2) Report on evaluations.--Not later than 180 days after the
completion of the evaluation under paragraph (1), the Director of
the Foundation shall submit to the appropriate committees of
Congress and make widely available to the public a report that
includes--
(A) the results of the evaluation; and
(B) any recommendations for administrative and legislative
action that could optimize the effectiveness of the program.
(f) Coordination.--In carrying out this section, the Director of
the Foundation shall consult and cooperate with the programs and
policies of other relevant Federal agencies to avoid duplication with
and enhance the effectiveness of the program under this section.
SEC. 306. NIST EDUCATION AND OUTREACH.
(a) Repeal.--The National Institute of Standards and Technology Act
(15 U.S.C. 271 et seq.) is amended by striking section 18 (15 U.S.C.
278g-1).
(b) Education and Outreach.--The National Institute of Standards
and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 271 et seq.), as amended, is further
amended by inserting after section 17, the following:
``SEC. 18. EDUCATION AND OUTREACH.
``(a) In General.--The Director is authorized to expend funds
appropriated for activities of the Institute in any fiscal year, to
support, promote, and coordinate activities and efforts to enhance
public awareness and understanding of measurement sciences, standards
and technology at the national measurement laboratories and otherwise
in fulfillment of the mission of the Institute. The Director may carry
out activities under this subsection, including education and outreach
activities to the general public, industry and academia in support of
the Institute's mission.
``(b) Hiring.--The Director, in coordination with the Director of
the Office of Personnel Management, may revise the procedures the
Director applies when making appointments to laboratory positions
within the competitive service--
``(1) to ensure corporate memory of and expertise in the
fundamental ongoing work, and on developing new capabilities in
priority areas;
``(2) to maintain high overall technical competence;
``(3) to improve staff diversity;
``(4) to balance emphases on the noncore and core areas; or
``(5) to improve the ability of the Institute to compete in the
marketplace for qualified personnel.
``(c) Volunteers.--
``(1) In general.--The Director may establish a program to use
volunteers in carrying out the programs of the Institute.
``(2) Acceptance of personnel.--The Director may accept,
subject to regulations issued by the Office of Personnel
Management, voluntary service for the Institute for such purpose if
the service--
``(A) is to be without compensation; and
``(B) will not be used to displace any current employee or
act as a substitute for any future full-time employee of the
Institute.
``(3) Federal employee status.--Any individual who provides
voluntary service under this subsection shall not be considered a
Federal employee, except for purposes of chapter 81 of title 5,
United States Code (relating to compensation for injury), and
sections 2671 through 2680 of title 28, United States Code
(relating to tort claims).
``(d) Research Fellowships.--
``(1) In general.--The Director may expend funds appropriated
for activities of the Institute in any fiscal year, as the Director
considers appropriate, for awards of research fellowships and other
forms of financial and logistical assistance, including direct
stipend awards to--
``(A) students at institutions of higher learning within
the United States who show promise as present or future
contributors to the mission of the Institute; and
``(B) United States citizens for research and technical
activities of the Institute, including programs.
``(2) Selection criteria.--The selection of persons to receive
such fellowships and assistance shall be made on the basis of
ability and of the relevance of the proposed work to the mission
and programs of the Institute.
``(3) Financial and logistical assistance.--Notwithstanding
section 1345 of title 31, United States Code, or any other law to
the contrary, the Director may include as a form of financial or
logistical assistance under this subsection temporary housing and
transportation to and from Institute facilities.
``(e) Educational Outreach Activities.--The Director may--
``(1) facilitate education programs for undergraduate and
graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and academic and
industry employees;
``(2) sponsor summer workshops for STEM kindergarten through
grade 12 teachers as appropriate;
``(3) develop programs for graduate student internships and
visiting faculty researchers;
``(4) document publications, presentations, and interactions
with visiting researchers and sponsoring interns as performance
metrics for improving and continuing interactions with those
individuals; and
``(5) facilitate laboratory tours and provide presentations for
educational, industry, and community groups.''.
(c) Post-doctoral Fellowship Program.--Section 19 of the National
Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278g-2) is amended
to read as follows:
``SEC. 19. POST-DOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM.
``(a) In General.--The Institute and the National Academy of
Sciences, jointly, shall establish and conduct a post-doctoral
fellowship program, subject to the availability of appropriations.
``(b) Organization.--The post-doctoral fellowship program shall
include not less than 20 new fellows per fiscal year.
``(c) Evaluations.--In evaluating applications for post-doctoral
fellowships under this section, the Director of the Institute and the
President of the National Academy of Sciences shall give consideration
to the goal of promoting the participation of individuals identified in
sections 33 and 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities
Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a, 1885b) in research areas supported by the
Institute.''.
(d) Savings Clauses.--
(1) Research fellowships and other financial assistance to
students at institutes of higher education.--The repeal made by
subsection (a) of this section shall not affect any award of a
research fellowship or other form of financial assistance made
under section 18 of the National Institute of Standards and
Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278g-1) before the date of enactment of
this Act. Such award shall continue to be subject to the
requirements to which such funds were subject under that section
before the date of enactment of this Act.
(2) Post-doctoral fellowship program.--The amendment made by
subsection (c) of this section shall not affect any award of a
post-doctoral fellowship or other form of financial assistance made
under section 19 of the National Institute of Standards and
Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278g-2) before the date of enactment of
this Act. Such awards shall continue to be subject to the
requirements to which such funds were subject under that section
before the date of enactment of this Act.
SEC. 307. PRESIDENTIAL AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN STEM MENTORING.
(a) In General.--The Director of the Foundation shall continue to
administer awards on behalf of the Office of Science and Technology
Policy to recognize outstanding mentoring in STEM fields.
(b) Annual Award Recipients.--The Director of the Foundation shall
provide Congress with a list of award recipients, including the name,
institution, and a brief synopsis of the impact of the mentoring
efforts.
SEC. 308. WORKING GROUP ON INCLUSION IN STEM FIELDS.
(a) Establishment.--The Office of Science and Technology Policy, in
collaboration with Federal departments and agencies, shall establish an
interagency working group to compile and summarize available research
and best practices on how to promote diversity and inclusions in STEM
fields and examine whether barriers exist to promoting diversity and
inclusion within Federal agencies employing scientists and engineers.
(b) Responsibilities.--The working group shall be responsible for
reviewing and assessing research, best practices, and policies across
Federal science agencies related to the inclusion of individuals
identified in sections 33 and 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal
Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a, 1885b) in the Federal STEM
workforce, including available research and best practices on how to
promote diversity and inclusion in STEM fields, including--
(1) policies providing flexibility for scientists and engineers
that are also caregivers, particularly on the timing of research
grants;
(2) policies to address the proper handling of claims of sexual
harassment;
(3) policies to minimize the effects of implicit bias and other
systemic factors in hiring, promotion, evaluation and the workplace
in general; and
(4) other evidence-based strategies that the working group
considers effective for promoting diversity and inclusion in the
STEM fields.
(c) Stakeholder Input.--In carrying out the responsibilities under
section (b), the working group shall solicit and consider input and
recommendations from non-Federal stakeholders, including--
(1) the Council of Advisors on Science and Technology;
(2) federally funded and non-federally funded researchers,
institutions of higher education, scientific disciplinary
societies, and associations;
(3) nonprofit research institutions;
(4) industry, including small businesses;
(5) federally funded research and development centers;
(6) non-governmental organizations; and
(7) such other members of the public interested in promoting a
diverse and inclusive Federal STEM workforce.
(d) Public Reports.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this Act, and periodically thereafter, the working group
shall publish a report on the review and assessment under subsection
(b), including a summary of available research and best practices, any
recommendations for Federal actions to promote a diverse and inclusive
Federal STEM workforce, and updates on the implementation of previous
recommendations for Federal actions.
(e) Termination.--The interagency working group established under
subsection (a) shall terminate on the date that is 10 years after the
date that it is established.
SEC. 309. IMPROVING UNDERGRADUATE STEM EXPERIENCES.
(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that each
Federal science agency should invest in and expand research
opportunities for undergraduate students attending institutions of
higher education during the undergraduate students' first 2 academic
years of postsecondary education.
(b) Identification of Research Programs.--Not later than 1 year
after the date of enactment of this Act, the head of each Federal
agency shall submit to the President recommendations regarding how the
agency could best fulfill the goals described in subsection (a).
SEC. 310. COMPUTER SCIENCE EDUCATION RESEARCH.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds that as the lead Federal agency for
building the research knowledge base for computer science education,
the Foundation is well positioned to make investments that will
accelerate ongoing efforts to enable rigorous and engaging computer
science throughout the Nation as an integral part of STEM education.
(b) Grant Program.--
(1) In general.--The Director of the Foundation shall award
grants to eligible entities to research computer science education
and computational thinking.
(2) Research.--The research described in paragraph (1) may
include the development or adaptation, piloting or full
implementation, and testing of--
(A) models of preservice preparation for teachers who will
teach computer science and computational thinking;
(B) scalable and sustainable models of professional
development and ongoing support for the teachers described in
subparagraph (A);
(C) tools and models for teaching and learning aimed at
supporting student success and inclusion in computing within
and across diverse populations, particularly poor, rural, and
tribal populations and other populations that have been
historically underrepresented in computer science and STEM
fields; and
(D) high-quality learning opportunities for teaching
computer science and, especially in poor, rural, or tribal
schools at the elementary school and middle school levels, for
integrating computational thinking into STEM teaching and
learning.
(c) Collaborations.--In carrying out the grants established in
subsection (b), eligible entities may collaborate and partner with
local or remote schools to support the integration of computing and
computational thinking within pre-kindergarten through grade 12 STEM
curricula and instruction.
(d) Metrics.--The Director of the Foundation shall develop metrics
to measure the success of the grant program funded under this section
in achieving program goals.
(e) Report.--The Director of the Foundation shall report, in the
annual budget submission to Congress, on the success of the program as
measured by the metrics in subsection (d).
(f) Definition of Eligible Entity.--In this section, the term
``eligible entity'' means an institution of higher education or a
nonprofit research organization.
SEC. 311. INFORMAL STEM EDUCATION.
(a) National STEM Partnership Grants.--Section 3(a) of the STEM
Education Act of 2015 (42 U.S.C. 1862q(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``; and'' and inserting a
semicolon;
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking the period at the end and
inserting ``; and''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(3) a national partnership of institutions involved in
informal STEM learning.''.
(b) Use of Funds.--Section 3(b) of the STEM Education Act of 2015
(42 U.S.C. 1862q(b)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``; and'' and inserting a
semicolon;
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking the period at the end and
inserting a semicolon; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(3) fostering on-going partnerships between institutions
involved in informal STEM learning, institutions of higher
education, and education research centers; and
``(4) developing, and making available informal STEM education
activities and educational materials.''.
SEC. 312. DEVELOPING STEM APPRENTICESHIPS.
(a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
(1) The lack of data on the return on investment for United
States employers using registered apprenticeships makes it
difficult--
(A) to communicate the value of these programs to
businesses; and
(B) to expand registered apprenticeships.
(2) The lack of data on the value and impact of employer-
provided worker training, which is likely substantial, hinders the
ability of the Federal Government to formulate policy related to
workforce training.
(3) The Secretary of Commerce has initiated--
(A) the first study on the return on investment for United
States employers using registered apprenticeships through case
studies of firms in various sectors, occupations, and
geographic locations to provide the business community with
data on employer benefits and costs; and
(B) discussions with officials at relevant Federal agencies
about the need to collect comprehensive data on--
(i) employer-provided worker training; and
(ii) existing tools that could be used to collect such
data.
(b) Development of Apprenticeship Information.--The Secretary of
Commerce shall continue to research the value to businesses of
utilizing apprenticeship programs, including--
(1) evidence of return on investment of apprenticeships,
including estimates for the average time it takes a business to
recover the costs associated with training apprentices; and
(2) data from the United States Census Bureau and other
statistical surveys on employer-provided training, including
apprenticeships and other on-the-job training and industry-
recognized certification programs.
(c) Dissemination of Apprenticeship Information.--The Secretary of
Commerce shall disseminate findings from research on apprenticeships to
businesses and other relevant stakeholders, including--
(1) institutions of higher education;
(2) State and local chambers of commerce; and
(3) workforce training organizations.
(d) New Apprenticeship Program Study.--The Secretary of Commerce
may collaborate with the Secretary of Labor to study approaches for
reducing the cost of creating new apprenticeship programs and hosting
apprentices for businesses, particularly small businesses, including--
(1) training sharing agreements;
(2) group training models; and
(3) pooling resources and best practices.
(e) Economic Development Administration Grants.--The Stevenson-
Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3701 et seq.) is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 28. STEM APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Commerce may carry out a grant
program to identify the need for skilled science, technology,
engineering, and mathematics (referred to in this section as `STEM')
workers and to expand STEM apprenticeship programs.
``(b) Eligible Recipient Defined.--In this section, the term
`eligible recipient' means--
``(1) a State;
``(2) an Indian tribe;
``(3) a city or other political subdivision of a State;
``(4) an entity that--
``(A) is a nonprofit organization, an institution of higher
education, a public-private partnership, a science or research
park, a Federal laboratory, or an economic development
organization or similar entity; and
``(B) has an application that is supported by a State, a
political subdivision of a State, or a native organization; or
``(5) a consortium of any of the entities described in
paragraphs (1) through (5).
``(c) Needs Assessment Grants.--The Secretary of Commerce may
provide a grant to an eligible recipient to conduct a needs assessment
to identify--
``(1) the unmet need of a region's employer base for skilled
STEM workers;
``(2) the potential of STEM apprenticeships to address the
unmet need described in paragraph (1); and
``(3) any barriers to addressing the unmet need described in
paragraph (1).
``(d) Apprenticeship Expansion Grants.--The Secretary of Commerce
may provide a grant to an eligible recipient that has conducted a needs
assessment as described in subsection (c)(1) to develop infrastructure
to expand STEM apprenticeship programs.''.
SEC. 313. NSF REPORT ON BROADENING PARTICIPATION.
Section 204(e) of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act
of 1988 (42 U.S.C. 1885c(e)) is amended to read as follows:
``(e) Biennial Report.--Every 2 years, the Committee shall prepare
and submit to the Director a report on its activities during the
previous 2 years and proposed activities for the next 2 years. The
Director shall submit to Congress the report, unaltered, together with
such comments as the Director considers appropriate, including--
``(1) review data on the participation in Foundation activities
of institutions serving populations that are underrepresented in
STEM disciplines, including poor, rural, and tribal populations;
and
``(2) recommendations regarding how the Foundation could
improve outreach and inclusion of these populations in Foundation
activities.''.
SEC. 314. NOAA SCIENCE EDUCATION PROGRAMS.
(a) In General.--Section 4002(a) of the America COMPETES Act (33
U.S.C. 893a(a)) is amended by striking ``agency, with consideration
given to the goal of promoting the participation of individuals from
underrepresented groups'' and inserting ``the agency, with
consideration given to the goal of promoting the participation of
individuals identified in sections 33 and 34 of the Science and
Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a, 1885b)''.
(b) Educational Program Goals.--Section 4002(b)(4) of the America
COMPETES Act (33 U.S.C. 893a(b)(4)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(2) by redesignating subparagraph (C) and subparagraph (D);
(3) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following:
``(C) are designed considering the unique needs of
underrepresented groups, translating such materials and other
resources;''; and
(4) by adding at the end the following:
``(E) are promoted widely, especially among individuals
identified in sections 33 and 34 of the Science and Engineering
Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a, 1885b); and''.
(c) Metrics.--Section 4002 of the America COMPETES Act (33 U.S.C.
893a) is amended--
(1) by redesignating subsections (d) and (e) as subsections (e)
and (f), respectively; and
(2) by adding after section (c) the following:
``(d) Metrics.--In executing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration science education plan under subsection (c), the
Administrator shall maintain a comprehensive system for evaluating the
Administration's educational programs and activities. In so doing, the
Administrator shall ensure that such education programs have measurable
objectives and milestones as well as clear, documented metrics for
evaluating programs. For each such education program or portfolio of
similar programs, the Administrator shall--
``(1) encourage the collection of evidence as relevant to the
measurable objectives and milestones; and
``(2) ensure that program or portfolio evaluations focus on
educational outcomes and not just inputs, activities completed, or
the number of participants.''.
SEC. 315. HISPANIC-SERVING INSTITUTIONS UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAM
UPDATE.
(a) In General.--Section 7033(a) of the America COMPETES Act (42
U.S.C. 1862o-12(a)) is amended as follows:
``(a) In General.--The Director shall award grants on a
competitive, merit-reviewed basis to Hispanic-serving institutions (as
defined in section 502 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1101a)) to enhance the quality of undergraduate STEM education at such
institutions and to increase the retention and graduation rates of
students pursuing associate's or baccalaureate degrees in science,
technology, engineering, and mathematics.''.
(b) Savings Provision.--The amendment made by subsection (a) of
this section shall not affect any award of a grant or other form of
financial assistance made under section 7033 of the America COMPETES
Act (42 U.S.C. 1862o-12) before the date of enactment of this Act. Such
awards shall continue to be subject to the requirements to which such
funds were subject under that section before the date of enactment of
this Act.
TITLE IV--LEVERAGING THE PRIVATE SECTOR
SEC. 401. PRIZE COMPETITION AUTHORITY UPDATE.
(a) Short Title.--This section may be cited as the ``Science Prize
Competition Act''.
(b) In General.--Section 24 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology
Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3719) is amended--
(1) in subsection (c)--
(A) in the subsection heading, by striking ``Prizes'' and
by inserting ``Prize Competitions'';
(B) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking
``prize may be one or more of the following'' and inserting
``prize competition may be 1 or more of the following types of
activities'';
(C) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``competition'' after
``prize''; and
(D) in paragraphs (3) and (4), by striking ``prizes'' and
inserting ``prize competitions'';
(2) in subsection (f)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking ``in
the Federal Register'' and inserting ``on a publicly accessible
Government website, such as www.challenge.gov,'';
(B) in paragraphs (1), (2), and (3), by inserting ``prize''
before ``competition''; and
(C) in paragraph (4), by striking ``prize'' and inserting
``cash prize purse or non-cash prize award'';
(3) in subsection (g)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking
``prize'' and inserting ``cash prize purse''; and
(B) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``prize'' before
``competition'';
(4) in subsection (h), by inserting ``prize'' before
``competition'' each place it appears;
(5) in subsection (i)--
(A) in paragraph (1)(B), by inserting ``prize'' before
``competition'';
(B) in paragraph (2)(A), by inserting ``prize'' before
``competition'' each place it appears;
(C) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (4); and
(D) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
``(3) Waivers.--
``(A) In general.--An agency may waive the requirement
under paragraph (2).
``(B) List.--The Director shall include a list of all of
the waivers granted under this paragraph during the preceding
fiscal year, including a detailed explanation of the reason for
granting the waiver.'';
(6) in subsection (j)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``prize'' before
``competition''; and
(B) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) Licenses.--As appropriate and to further the goals of a
prize competition, the Federal Government may negotiate a license
for the use of intellectual property developed by a registered
participant in a prize competition.'';
(7) in subsection (k)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``each competition'' and
inserting ``each prize competition'' each place it appears;
(B) in paragraph (2)(A), by inserting ``prize'' before
``competition''; and
(C) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``prize'' before
``competitions'' each place it appears;
(8) in subsection (l), by striking ``an agreement with'' and
all that follows through the period at the end and inserting ``a
grant, contract, cooperative agreement, or other agreement with a
private sector for-profit or nonprofit entity or State or local
government agency to administer the prize competition, subject to
the provisions of this section.'';
(9) in subsection (m)--
(A) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:
``(1) In general.--Support for a prize competition under this
section, including financial support for the design and
administration of a prize competition or funds for a cash prize
purse, may consist of Federal appropriated funds and funds provided
by private sector for-profit and nonprofit entities. The head of an
agency may request and accept funds from other Federal agencies,
State, United States territory, local, or tribal government
agencies, private sector for-profit entities, and nonprofit
entities, to be available to the extent provided by appropriations
Acts, to support such prize competitions. The head of an agency may
not give any special consideration to any agency or entity in
return for a donation.'';
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``prize awards'' and
inserting ``cash prize purses or non-cash prize awards'';
(C) in paragraph (3)--
(i) by amending subparagraph (A) to read as follows:
``(A) Announcement.--No prize competition may be announced
under subsection (f) until all the funds needed to pay out the
announced amount of the cash prize purse have been appropriated
or committed in writing by a private or State, United States
territory, local, or tribal government source.''; and
(ii) in subparagraph (B)--
(I) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking
``a prize'' and inserting ``a cash prize purse or non-
cash prize award'';
(II) in clause (i), by inserting ``competition''
after ``prize''; and
(III) in clause (ii), by inserting ``or State,
United States territory, local, or tribal government''
after ``private''; and
(D) in paragraph (4)--
(i) in subparagraph (A)--
(I) by striking ``a prize'' and inserting ``a cash
prize purse or a non-cash prize award''; and
(II) by striking ``Science and Technology'' and
inserting ``Science, Space, and Technology''; and
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``cash prizes''
and inserting ``cash prize purses or non-cash prize
awards'';
(10) in subsection (n)--
(A) in the heading, by striking ``Service'' and inserting
``Services'';
(B) by striking ``the date of the enactment of the America
COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010,'' and inserting ``the
date of enactment of the American Innovation and
Competitiveness Act,''; and
(C) by inserting ``for both for-profit and nonprofit
entities and State, United States territory, local, and tribal
government entities,'' after ``contract vehicle'';
(11) in subsection (o)(1), by striking ``or providing a prize''
and inserting ``a prize competition or providing a cash prize purse
or non-cash prize award''; and
(12) in subsection (p)--
(A) in the heading, by striking ``Annual'' and inserting
``Biennial'';
(B) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by striking ``each year'' and inserting ``every
other year'';
(ii) by striking ``Science and Technology'' and
inserting ``Science, Space, and Technology''; and
(iii) by striking ``fiscal year'' and inserting ``2
fiscal years''; and
(C) in paragraph (2)--
(i) by striking ``The report for a fiscal year'' and
inserting ``A report'';
(ii) in subparagraph (C)--
(I) in the heading, by striking ``prizes'' and
inserting ``prize purses or non-cash prize awards'';
and
(II) by striking ``cash prizes'' each place it
appears and inserting ``cash prize purses or non-cash
prize awards''; and
(iii) by adding at the end the following:
``(G) Plan.--A description of crosscutting topical areas
and agency-specific mission needs that may be the strongest
opportunities for prize competitions during the upcoming 2
fiscal years.''.
SEC. 402. CROWDSOURCING AND CITIZEN SCIENCE.
(a) Short Title.--This section may be cited as the ``Crowdsourcing
and Citizen Science Act''.
(b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) the authority granted to Federal agencies under the America
COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-358; 124 Stat.
3982) to pursue the use of incentive prizes and challenges has
yielded numerous benefits;
(2) crowdsourcing and citizen science projects have a number of
additional unique benefits, including accelerating scientific
research, increasing cost effectiveness to maximize the return on
taxpayer dollars, addressing societal needs, providing hands-on
learning in STEM, and connecting members of the public directly to
Federal science agency missions and to each other; and
(3) granting Federal science agencies the direct, explicit
authority to use crowdsourcing and citizen science will encourage
its appropriate use to advance Federal science agency missions and
stimulate and facilitate broader public participation in the
innovation process, yielding numerous benefits to the Federal
Government and citizens who participate in such projects.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Citizen science.--The term ``citizen science'' means a form
of open collaboration in which individuals or organizations
participate voluntarily in the scientific process in various ways,
including--
(A) enabling the formulation of research questions;
(B) creating and refining project design;
(C) conducting scientific experiments;
(D) collecting and analyzing data;
(E) interpreting the results of data;
(F) developing technologies and applications;
(G) making discoveries; and
(H) solving problems.
(2) Crowdsourcing.--The term ``crowdsourcing'' means a method
to obtain needed services, ideas, or content by soliciting
voluntary contributions from a group of individuals or
organizations, especially from an online community.
(3) Participant.--The term ``participant'' means any individual
or other entity that has volunteered in a crowdsourcing or citizen
science project under this section.
(d) Crowdsourcing and Citizen Science.--
(1) In general.--The head of each Federal science agency, or
the heads of multiple Federal science agencies working
cooperatively, may utilize crowdsourcing and citizen science to
conduct projects designed to advance the mission of the respective
Federal science agency or the joint mission of Federal science
agencies, as applicable.
(2) Voluntary services.--Notwithstanding section 1342 of title
31, United States Code, the head of a Federal science agency may
accept, subject to regulations issued by the Director of the Office
of Personnel Management, in coordination with the Director of the
Office of Science and Technology Policy, services from participants
under this section if such services--
(A) are performed voluntarily as a part of a crowdsourcing
or citizen science project authorized under paragraph (1);
(B) are not financially compensated for their time; and
(C) will not be used to displace any employee of the
Federal Government.
(3) Outreach.--The head of each Federal science agency engaged
in a crowdsourcing or citizen science project under this section
shall make public and promote such project to encourage broad
participation.
(4) Consent, registration, and terms of use.--
(A) In general.--Each Federal science agency shall
determine the appropriate level of consent, registration, or
acknowledgment of the terms of use that are required from
participants in crowdsourcing or citizen science projects under
this section on a per-project basis.
(B) Disclosures.--In seeking consent, conducting
registration, or developing terms of use for a project under
this subsection, a Federal science agency shall disclose the
privacy, intellectual property, data ownership, compensation,
service, program, and other terms of use to the participant in
a clear and reasonable manner.
(C) Mode of consent.--A Federal agency or Federal science
agencies, as applicable, may obtain consent electronically or
in written form from participants under this section.
(5) Protections for human subjects.--Any crowdsourcing or
citizen science project under this section that involves research
involving human subjects shall be subject to part 46 of title 28,
Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation).
(6) Data.--
(A) In general.--A Federal science agency shall, where
appropriate and to the extent practicable, make data collected
through a crowdsourcing or citizen science project under this
section available to the public, in a machine readable format,
unless prohibited by law.
(B) Notice.--As part of the consent process, the Federal
science agency shall notify all participants--
(i) of the expected uses of the data compiled through
the project;
(ii) if the Federal science agency will retain
ownership of such data;
(iii) if and how the data and results from the project
would be made available for public or third party use; and
(iv) if participants are authorized to publish such
data.
(7) Technologies and applications.--Federal science agencies
shall endeavor to make technologies, applications, code, and
derivations of such intellectual property developed through a
crowdsourcing or citizen science project under this section
available to the public.
(8) Liability.--Each participant in a crowdsourcing or citizen
science project under this section shall agree--
(A) to assume any and all risks associated with such
participation; and
(B) to waive all claims against the Federal Government and
its related entities, except for claims based on willful
misconduct, for any injury, death, damage, or loss of property,
revenue, or profits (whether direct, indirect, or
consequential) arising from participation in the project.
(9) Research misconduct.--Federal science agencies coordinating
crowdsourcing or citizen science projects under this section shall
make all practicable efforts to ensure that participants adhere to
all relevant Federal research misconduct policies and other
applicable ethics policies.
(10) Multi-sector partnerships.--The head of each Federal
science agency engaged in crowdsourcing or citizen science under
this section, or the heads of multiple Federal science agencies
working cooperatively, may enter into a contract or other agreement
to share administrative duties for such projects with--
(A) a for profit or nonprofit private sector entity,
including a private institution of higher education;
(B) a State, tribal, local, or foreign government agency,
including a public institution of higher education; or
(C) a public-private partnership.
(11) Funding.--In carrying out crowdsourcing and citizen
science projects under this section, the head of a Federal science
agency, or the heads of multiple Federal science agencies working
cooperatively--
(A) may use funds appropriated by Congress;
(B) may publicize projects and solicit and accept funds or
in-kind support for such projects, to be available to the
extent provided by appropriations Acts, from--
(i) other Federal agencies;
(ii) for profit or nonprofit private sector entities,
including private institutions of higher education; or
(iii) State, tribal, local, or foreign government
agencies, including public institutions of higher
education; and
(C) may not give any special consideration to any entity
described in subparagraph (B) in return for such funds or in-
kind support.
(12) Facilitation.--
(A) General services administration assistance.--The
Administrator of the General Services Administration, in
coordination with the Director of the Office of Personnel
Management and the Director of the Office of Science and
Technology Policy, shall, at no cost to Federal science
agencies, identify and develop relevant products, training, and
services to facilitate the use of crowdsourcing and citizen
science projects under this section, including by specifying
the appropriate contract vehicles and technology and
organizational platforms to enhance the ability of Federal
science agencies to carry out the projects under this section.
(B) Additional guidance.--The head of each Federal science
agency engaged in crowdsourcing or citizen science under this
section may--
(i) consult any guidance provided by the Director of
the Office of Science and Technology Policy, including the
Federal Crowdsourcing and Citizen Science Toolkit;
(ii) designate a coordinator for that Federal science
agency's crowdsourcing and citizen science projects; and
(iii) share best practices with other Federal agencies,
including participation of staff in the Federal Community
of Practice for Crowdsourcing and Citizen Science.
(e) Report.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of Science and
Technology Policy shall include, as a component of an annual report
required under section 24(p) of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology
Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3719(p)), a report on the
projects and activities carried out under this section.
(2) Information included.--The report required under paragraph
(1) shall include--
(A) a summary of each crowdsourcing and citizen science
project conducted by a Federal science agency during the most
recently completed 2 fiscal years, including a description of
the proposed goals of each crowdsourcing and citizen science
project;
(B) an analysis of why the utilization of a crowdsourcing
or citizen science project summarized in subparagraph (A) was
the preferable method of achieving the goals described in
subparagraph (A) as opposed to other authorities available to
the Federal science agency, such as contracts, grants,
cooperative agreements, and prize competitions;
(C) the participation rates, submission levels, number of
consents, and any other statistic that might be considered
relevant in each crowdsourcing and citizen science project;
(D) a detailed description of--
(i) the resources, including personnel and funding,
that were used in the execution of each crowdsourcing and
citizen science project;
(ii) the project activities for which such resources
were used; and
(iii) how the obligations and expenditures relating to
the project's execution were allocated among the accounts
of the Federal science agency, including a description of
the amount and source of all funds, private, public, and
in-kind, contributed to each crowdsourcing and citizen
science project;
(E) a summary of the use of crowdsourcing and citizen
science by all Federal science agencies, including interagency
and multi-sector partnerships;
(F) a description of how each crowdsourcing and citizen
science project advanced the mission of each participating
Federal science agency;
(G) an identification of each crowdsourcing or citizen
science project where data collected through such project was
not made available to the public, including the reasons for
such action; and
(H) any other information that the Director of the Office
of Science and Technology Policy considers relevant.
(f) Savings Provision.--Nothing in this section may be construed--
(1) to affect the authority to conduct crowdsourcing and
citizen science authorized by any other provision of law; or
(2) to displace Federal Government resources allocated to the
Federal science agencies that use crowdsourcing or citizen science
authorized under this section to carry out a project.
SEC. 403. NIST DIRECTOR FUNCTIONS UPDATE.
Section 2(b) of the National Institute of Standards and Technology
Act (15 U.S.C. 272(b)), as amended by section 403 of this Act, is
further amended--
(1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking
``authorized to take'' and inserting ``authorized to serve as the
President's principal adviser on standards policy pertaining to the
Nation's technological competitiveness and innovation ability and
to take'';
(2) in paragraph (3), by striking ``compare standards'' and all
that follows through ``Federal Government'' and inserting
``facilitate standards-related information sharing and cooperation
between Federal agencies''; and
(3) in paragraph (13), by striking ``Federal, State, and
local'' and all that follows through ``private sector'' and
inserting ``technical standards activities and conformity
assessment activities of Federal, State, and local governments with
private sector''.
SEC. 404. NIST VISITING COMMITTEE ON ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY UPDATE.
Section 10 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology
Act (15 U.S.C. 278) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in the second sentence, by striking ``15 members
appointed by the Director, at least 10 of whom'' and inserting
``not fewer than 9 members appointed by the Director, a
majority of whom''; and
(B) in the third sentence, by striking ``National Bureau of
Standards'' and inserting ``National Institute of Standards and
Technology''; and
(2) in subsection (h)(1), by striking ``, including the Program
established under section 28,''.
TITLE V--MANUFACTURING
SEC. 501. HOLLINGS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION PARTNERSHIP
IMPROVEMENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This section may be cited as the ``Manufacturing
Extension Partnership Improvement Act''.
(b) In General.--Section 25 of the National Institute of Standards
and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278k) is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 25. HOLLINGS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION PARTNERSHIP.
``(a) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Appropriate committees of congress.--The term
`appropriate committees of Congress' means--
``(A) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and
Transportation of the Senate; and
``(B) the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of
the House of Representatives.
``(2) Area career and technical education school.--The term
`area career and technical education school' has the meaning given
the term in section 3 of the Vocational Education Act of 1963 (20
U.S.C. 2302).
``(3) Center.--The term `Center' means a manufacturing
extension center that--
``(A) is created under subsection (b); and
``(B) is affiliated with an eligible entity that applies
for and is awarded financial support under subsection (e).
``(4) Community college.--The term `community college' means an
institution of higher education (as defined under section 101(a) of
the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001(a))) at which the
highest degree that is predominately awarded to students is an
associate's degree.
``(5) Eligible entity.--The term `eligible entity' means a
United States-based nonprofit institution, or consortium thereof,
an institution of higher education, or a State, United States
territory, local, or tribal government.
``(6) Hollings manufacturing extension partnership or
program.--The term `Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership'
or `Program' means the program established under subsection (b).
``(7) MEP advisory board.--The term `MEP Advisory Board' means
the Manufacturing Extension Partnership Advisory Board established
under subsection (n).
``(b) Establishment and Purpose.--The Secretary, acting through the
Director and, if appropriate, through other Federal officials, shall
establish a program to provide assistance for the creation and support
of manufacturing extension centers for the transfer of manufacturing
technology and best business practices.
``(c) Objective.--The objective of the Program shall be to enhance
competitiveness, productivity, and technological performance in United
States manufacturing through--
``(1) the transfer of manufacturing technology and techniques
developed at the Institute to Centers and, through them, to
manufacturing companies throughout the United States;
``(2) the participation of individuals from industry,
institutions of higher education, State governments, other Federal
agencies, and, when appropriate, the Institute in cooperative
technology transfer activities;
``(3) efforts to make new manufacturing technology and
processes usable by United States-based small and medium-sized
companies;
``(4) the active dissemination of scientific, engineering,
technical, and management information about manufacturing to
industrial firms, including small and medium-sized manufacturing
companies;
``(5) the utilization, when appropriate, of the expertise and
capability that exists in Federal agencies, other than the
Institute, and federally-sponsored laboratories;
``(6) the provision to community colleges and area career and
technical education schools of information about the job skills
needed in manufacturing companies, including small and medium-sized
manufacturing businesses in the regions they serve;
``(7) the promotion and expansion of certification systems
offered through industry, associations, and local colleges when
appropriate, including efforts such as facilitating training,
supporting new or existing apprenticeships, and providing access to
information and experts, to address workforce needs and skills gaps
in order to assist small- and medium-sized manufacturing
businesses; and
``(8) the growth in employment and wages at United States-based
small and medium-sized companies.
``(d) Activities.--The activities of a Center shall include--
``(1) the establishment of automated manufacturing systems and
other advanced production technologies, based on Institute-
supported research, for the purpose of demonstrations and
technology transfer;
``(2) the active transfer and dissemination of research
findings and Center expertise to a wide range of companies and
enterprises, particularly small and medium-sized manufacturers; and
``(3) the facilitation of collaborations and partnerships
between small and medium-sized manufacturing companies, community
colleges, and area career and technical education schools, to help
those entities better understand the specific needs of
manufacturers and to help manufacturers better understand the skill
sets that students learn in the programs offered by such colleges
and schools.
``(e) Financial Assistance.--
``(1) Authorization.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), the
Secretary may provide financial assistance for the creation and
support of a Center through a cooperative agreement with an
eligible entity.
``(2) Cost sharing.--The Secretary may not provide more than 50
percent of the capital and annual operating and maintenance funds
required to establish and support a Center.
``(3) Rule of construction.--For purposes of paragraph (2), any
amount received by an eligible entity for a Center under a
provision of law other than paragraph (1) shall not be considered
an amount provided under paragraph (1).
``(4) Regulations.--The Secretary may revise or promulgate such
regulations as necessary to carry out this subsection.
``(f) Applications.--
``(1) In general.--An eligible entity shall submit an
application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and
containing such information as the Secretary may require.
``(2) Program description.--The Secretary shall establish and
update, as necessary--
``(A) a description of the Program;
``(B) the application procedures;
``(C) performance metrics;
``(D) criteria for determining qualified applicants; and
``(E) criteria for choosing recipients of financial
assistance from among the qualified applicants.
``(F) procedures for determining allowable cost share
contributions; and
``(G) such other program policy objectives and operational
procedures as the Secretary considers necessary.
``(3) Cost sharing.--
``(A) In general.--To be considered for financial
assistance under this section, an applicant shall provide
adequate assurances that the applicant and if applicable, the
applicant's partnering organizations, will obtain funding for
not less than 50 percent of the capital and annual operating
and maintenance funds required to establish and support the
Center from sources other than the financial assistance
provided under subsection (e).
``(B) Agreements with other entities.--In meeting the cost-
sharing requirement under subparagraph (A), an eligible entity
may enter into an agreement with 1 or more other entities, such
as a private industry, institutions of higher education, or a
State, United States territory, local, or tribal government for
the contribution by that other entity of funding if the
Secretary determines the agreement--
``(i) is programmatically reasonable;
``(ii) will help accomplish programmatic objectives;
and
``(iii) is allocable under Program procedures under
subsection (f)(2).
``(4) Legal rights.--Each applicant shall include in the
application a proposal for the allocation of the legal rights
associated with any intellectual property which may result from the
activities of the Center.
``(5) Merit review of applications.--
``(A) In general.--The Secretary shall subject each
application to merit review.
``(B) Considerations.--In making a decision whether to
approve an application and provide financial assistance under
subsection (e), the Secretary shall consider, at a minimum--
``(i) the merits of the application, particularly those
portions of the application regarding technology transfer,
training and education, and adaptation of manufacturing
technologies to the needs of particular industrial sectors;
``(ii) the quality of service to be provided;
``(iii) the geographical diversity and extent of the
service area; and
``(iv) the type and percentage of funding and in-kind
commitment from other sources under paragraph (3).
``(g) Evaluations.--
``(1) Third and eighth year evaluations by panel.--
``(A) In general.--The Secretary shall ensure that each
Center is evaluated during its third and eighth years of
operation by an evaluation panel appointed by the Secretary.
``(B) Composition.--The Secretary shall ensure that each
evaluation panel appointed under subparagraph (A) is composed
of--
``(i) private experts, none of whom are connected with
the Center evaluated by the panel; and
``(ii) Federal officials.
``(C) Chairperson.--For each evaluation panel appointed
under subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall appoint a
chairperson who is an official of the Institute.
``(2) Fifth year evaluations by secretary.--In the fifth year
of operation of a Center, the Secretary shall conduct a review of
the Center.
``(3) Performance measurement.--In evaluating a Center an
evaluation panel or the Secretary, as applicable, shall measure the
performance of the Center against--
``(A) the objective specified in subsection (c);
``(B) the performance metrics under subsection (f)(2)(C);
and
``(C) such other criterion as considered appropriate by the
Secretary.
``(4) Positive evaluations.--If an evaluation of a Center is
positive, the Secretary may continue to provide financial
assistance for the Center--
``(A) in the case of an evaluation occurring in the third
year of a Center, through the fifth year of the Center;
``(B) in the case of an evaluation occurring in the fifth
year of a Center, through the eighth year of the Center; and
``(C) in the case of an evaluation occurring in the eighth
year of a Center, through the tenth year of the Center.
``(5) Other than positive evaluations.--
``(A) Probation.--If an evaluation of a Center is other
than positive, the Secretary shall put the Center on probation
during the period beginning on the date that the Center
receives notice under subparagraph (B)(i) and ending on the
date that the reevaluation is complete under subparagraph
(B)(iii).
``(B) Notice and reevaluation.--If a Center receives an
evaluation that is other than positive, the evaluation panel or
Secretary, as applicable, shall--
``(i) notify the Center of the reason, including any
deficiencies in the performance of the Center identified
during the evaluation;
``(ii) assist the Center in remedying the deficiencies
by providing the Center, not less frequently than once
every 3 months, an analysis of the Center, if considered
appropriate by the panel or Secretary, as applicable; and
``(iii) reevaluate the Center not later than 1 year
after the date of the notice under clause (i).
``(C) Continued support during period of probation.--
``(i) In general.--The Secretary may continue to
provide financial assistance under subsection (e) for a
Center during the probation period.
``(ii) Post probation.--After the period of probation,
the Secretary shall not provide any financial assistance
unless the Center has received a positive evaluation under
subparagraph (B)(iii).
``(6) Failure to remedy.--
``(A) In general.--If a Center fails to remedy a deficiency
or to show significant improvement in performance before the
end of the probation period under paragraph (5), the Secretary
shall conduct a competition to select an operator for the
Center under subsection (h).
``(B) Treatment of centers subject to new competition.--
Upon the selection of an operator for a Center under subsection
(h), the Center shall be considered a new Center and the
calculation of the years of operation of that Center for
purposes of paragraphs (1) through (5) of this subsection and
subsection (h)(1) shall start anew.
``(h) Reapplication Competition for Financial Assistance After 10
Years.--
``(1) In general.--If an eligible entity has operated a Center
under this section for a period of 10 consecutive years, the
Secretary shall conduct a competition to select an eligible entity
to operate the Center in accordance with the process plan under
subsection (i).
``(2) Incumbent eligible entities.--An eligible entity that has
received financial assistance under this section for a period of 10
consecutive years and that the Secretary determines is in good
standing shall be eligible to compete in the competition under
paragraph (1).
``(3) Treatment of centers subject to reapplication
competition.--Upon the selection of an operator for a Center under
paragraph (1), the Center shall be considered a new Center and the
calculation of the years of operation of that Center for purposes
of paragraphs (1) through (5) of subsection (g) shall start anew.
``(i) Process Plan.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the
enactment of the American Innovation and Competitiveness Act, the
Secretary shall implement and submit to Congress a plan for how the
Institute will conduct an evaluation, competition, and reapplication
competition under this section.
``(j) Operational Requirements.--
``(1) Protection of confidential information of center
clients.--The following information, if obtained by the Federal
Government in connection with an activity of a Center or the
Program, shall be exempt from public disclosure under section 552
of title 5, United States Code:
``(A) Information on the business operation of any
participant in the Program or of a client of a Center.
``(B) Trade secrets of any client of a Center.
``(k) Oversight Boards.--
``(1) In general.--As a condition on receipt of financial
assistance for a Center under subsection (e), an eligible entity
shall establish a board to oversee the operations of the Center.
``(2) Standards.--
``(A) In general.--The Director shall establish appropriate
standards for each board described under paragraph (1).
``(B) Considerations.--In establishing the standards, the
Director shall take into account the type and organizational
structure of an eligible entity.
``(C) Requirements.--The standards shall address--
``(i) membership;
``(ii) composition;
``(iii) term limits;
``(iv) conflicts of interest; and
``(v) such other requirements as the Director considers
necessary.
``(3) Membership.--
``(A) In general.--Each board established under paragraph
(1) shall be composed of members as follows:
``(i) The membership of each board shall be
representative of stakeholders in the region in which the
Center is located.
``(ii) A majority of the members of the board shall be
selected from among individuals who own or are employed by
small or medium-sized manufacturers.
``(B) Limitation.--A member of a board established under
paragraph (1) may not serve on more than 1 board established
under that paragraph.
``(4) Bylaws.--
``(A) In general.--Each board established under paragraph
(1) shall adopt and submit to the Director bylaws to govern the
operation of the board.
``(B) Conflicts of interest.--Bylaws adopted under
subparagraph (A) shall include policies to minimize conflicts
of interest, including such policies relating to disclosure of
relationships and recusal as may be necessary to minimize
conflicts of interest.
``(l) Acceptance of Funds.--In addition to such sums as may be
appropriated to the Secretary and Director to operate the Program, the
Secretary and Director may also accept funds from other Federal
departments and agencies and from the private sector under section
2(c)(7) of this Act (15 U.S.C. 272(c)(7)), to be available to the
extent provided by appropriations Acts, for the purpose of
strengthening United States manufacturing.
``(m) MEP Advisory Board.--
``(1) Establishment.--There is established within the Institute
a Manufacturing Extension Partnership Advisory Board.
``(2) Membership.--
``(A) Composition.--
``(i) In general.--The MEP Advisory Board shall consist
of not fewer than 10 members appointed by the Director and
broadly representative of stakeholders.
``(ii) Requirements.--Of the members appointed under
clause (i)--
``(I) at least 2 members shall be employed by or on
an advisory board for a Center;
``(II) at least 5 members shall be from United
States small businesses in the manufacturing sector;
and
``(III) at least 1 member shall represent a
community college.
``(iii) Limitation.--No member of the MEP Advisory
Board shall be an employee of the Federal Government.
``(B) Term.--Except as provided in subparagraph (C), the
term of office of each member of the MEP Advisory Board shall
be 3 years.
``(C) Vacancies.--Any member appointed to fill a vacancy
occurring prior to the expiration of the term for which his
predecessor was appointed shall be appointed for the remainder
of such term.
``(D) Serving consecutive terms.--Any person who has
completed 2 consecutive full terms of service on the MEP
Advisory Board shall thereafter be ineligible for appointment
during the 1-year period following the expiration of the second
such term.
``(3) Meetings.--The MEP Advisory Board shall--
``(A) meet not less than biannually; and
``(B) provide to the Director--
``(i) advice on the activities, plans, and policies of
the Program;
``(ii) assessments of the soundness of the plans and
strategies of the Program; and
``(iii) assessments of current performance against the
plans of the Program.
``(4) FACA applicability.--
``(A) In general.--In discharging its duties under this
subsection, the MEP Advisory Board shall function solely in an
advisory capacity, in accordance with the Federal Advisory
Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.).
``(B) Exception.--Section 14 of the Federal Advisory
Committee Act shall not apply to the MEP Advisory Board.
``(5) Annual report.--
``(A) In general.--At a minimum, the MEP Advisory Board
shall transmit an annual report to the Secretary for
transmittal to Congress not later than 30 days after the
submission to Congress of the President's annual budget under
section 1105 of title 31, United States Code.
``(B) Contents.--The report shall address the status of the
Program and describe the relevant sections of the programmatic
planning document and updates thereto transmitted to Congress
by the Director under subsections (c) and (d) of section 23 (15
U.S.C. 278i).
``(n) Small Manufacturers.--
``(1) Evaluation of obstacles.--As part of the Program, the
Director shall--
``(A) identify obstacles that prevent small manufacturers
from effectively competing in the global market;
``(B) implement a comprehensive plan to train the Centers
to address the obstacles identified in paragraph (2); and
``(C) facilitate improved communication between the Centers
to assist such manufacturers in implementing appropriate,
targeted solutions to the obstacles identified in paragraph
(2).
``(2) Development of open access resources.--As part of the
Program, the Secretary shall develop open access resources that
address best practices related to inventory sourcing, supply chain
management, manufacturing techniques, available Federal resources,
and other topics to further the competitiveness and profitability
of small manufacturers.''.
(c) Competitive Awards Program.--The National Institute of
Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 271 et seq.) is amended by
inserting after section 25 the following:
``SEC. 25A. COMPETITIVE AWARDS PROGRAM.
``(a) Establishment.--The Director shall establish within the
Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership under section 25 (15
U.S.C. 278k) and section 26 (15 U.S.C. 278l) a program of competitive
awards among participants described in subsection (b) of this section
for the purposes described in subsection (c).
``(b) Participants.--Participants receiving awards under this
section shall be Centers, or a consortium of Centers.
``(c) Purpose, Themes, and Reimbursement.--
``(1) Purpose.--The purpose of the program established under
subsection (a) is to add capabilities to the Hollings Manufacturing
Extension Partnership, including the development of projects to
solve new or emerging manufacturing problems as determined by the
Director, in consultation with the Director of the Hollings
Manufacturing Extension Partnership, the MEP Advisory Board, other
Federal agencies, and small and medium-sized manufacturers.
``(2) Themes.--The Director may identify 1 or more themes for a
competition carried out under this section, which may vary from
year to year, as the Director considers appropriate after assessing
the needs of manufacturers and the success of previous
competitions.
``(3) Reimbursement.--Centers may be reimbursed for costs
incurred by the Centers under this section.
``(d) Applications.--Applications for awards under this section
shall be submitted in such manner, at such time, and containing such
information as the Director shall require in consultation with the MEP
Advisory Board.
``(e) Selection.--
``(1) Peer review and competitively awarded.--The Director
shall ensure that awards under this section are peer reviewed and
competitively awarded.
``(2) Geographic diversity.--The Director shall endeavor to
have broad geographic diversity among selected proposals.
``(3) Criteria.--The Director shall select applications to
receive awards that the Director determines will achieve 1 or more
of the following:
``(A) Improve the competitiveness of industries in the
region in which the Center or Centers are located.
``(B) Create jobs or train newly hired employees.
``(C) Promote the transfer and commercialization of
research and technology from institutions of higher education,
national laboratories or other federally funded research
programs, and nonprofit research institutes.
``(D) Recruit a diverse manufacturing workforce, including
through outreach to underrepresented populations, including
individuals identified in section 33 or section 34 of the
Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C.
1885a, 1885b).
``(E) Such other result as the Director determines will
advance the objective set forth in section 25(c) (15 U.S.C.
278k) or in section 26 (15 U.S.C. 278l).
``(f) Program Contribution.--Recipients of awards under this
section shall not be required to provide a matching contribution.
``(g) Global Marketplace Projects.--In making an award under this
section, the Director, in consultation with the MEP Advisory Board and
the Secretary, may take into consideration whether an application has
significant potential for enhancing the competitiveness of small and
medium-sized United States manufacturers in the global marketplace.
``(h) Duration.--The duration of an award under this section shall
be for not more than 3 years.
``(i) Definitions.--The terms used in this section have the
meanings given the terms in section 25 (15 U.S.C. 278k).''.
(d) Reports.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United
States, in consultation with the MEP Advisory Board (as defined in
section 25 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology
Act (15 U.S.C. 278k)), shall submit to the appropriate committees
of Congress a report analyzing--
(A) the effectiveness of the changes in the cost share to
Centers under section 25 of the National Institute of Standards
and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278k);
(B) the engagement in services and the characteristics of
services provided by 2 types of Centers, including volume and
type of service; and
(C) whether the cost-sharing ratio has any effect on the
services provided by either type of Center.
(2) Independent assessment.--
(A) In general.--Not later than 3 years after the date of
submission of the report under paragraph (1), the Director of
NIST shall contract with an independent organization to perform
an assessment of the implementation of the reapplication
competition process.
(B) Consultation.--The independent organization performing
the assessment under subparagraph (A) may consult with the MEP
Advisory Board (as defined in section 25 of the National
Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278k)).
(3) Comparison of centers.--
(A) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Director shall submit to the
appropriate committees of Congress a report providing
information on the first and second years of operations for
Centers (as defined in section 25 of the National Institute of
Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278k)) operating from
new competitions or recompetition as compared to longstanding
Centers.
(B) Contents.--The report shall provide detail on the
engagement in services provided by Centers and the
characteristics of services provided, including volume and type
of services, so that the appropriate committees of Congress can
evaluate whether the cost-sharing ratio has an effect on the
services provided at Centers.
(e) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Definitions.--Section 2199(3) of title 10, United States
Code, is amended--
(A) by striking ``regional center'' and inserting
``manufacturing extension center'';
(B) by inserting ``and best business practices'' before
``referred''; and
(C) by striking ``25(a)'' and inserting ``25(b)''.
(2) Enterprise integration initiative.--Section 3(a) of the
Enterprise Integration Act of 2002 (15 U.S.C. 278g-5(a)) is amended
by inserting ``Hollings'' before ``Manufacturing Extension
Partnership''.
(3) Assistance to state technology programs.--Section 26(a) of
the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C.
278l(a)) is amended by striking ``Centers program created'' and
inserting ``Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership''.
(f) Savings Provisions.--Notwithstanding the amendments made by
subsections (a) and (b) of this section, the Secretary of Commerce may
carry out section 25 of the National Institute of Standards and
Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278k) as that section was in effect on the
day before the date of enactment of this Act, with respect to existing
grants, agreements, cooperative agreements, or contracts, and with
respect to applications for such items that are received by the
Secretary prior to the date of enactment of this Act.
(g) Patent Rights.--The provisions of chapter 18 of title 35,
United States Code, shall apply, to the extent not inconsistent with
section 25 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act
(15 U.S.C. 278k) and section 25 of that Act, to the promotion of
technology from research by Centers under those sections, except for
contracts for such specific technology extension or transfer services
as may be specified by the Director of NIST or under other law.
TITLE VI--INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER
SEC. 601. INNOVATION CORPS.
(a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
(1) The National Science Foundation Innovation Corps (referred
to in this section as the ``I-Corps'') was established to foster a
national innovation ecosystem by encouraging institutions,
scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs to identify and explore
the innovation and commercial potential of National Science
Foundation-funded research well beyond the laboratory.
(2) Through I-Corps, the Foundation invests in entrepreneurship
and commercialization education, training, and mentoring that can
ultimately lead to the practical deployment of technologies,
products, processes, and services that improve the Nation's
competitiveness, promote economic growth, and benefit society.
(3) By building networks of entrepreneurs, educators, mentors,
institutions, and collaborations, and supporting specialized
education and training, I-Corps is at the leading edge of a strong,
lasting foundation for an American innovation ecosystem.
(4) By translating federally funded research to a commercial
stage more quickly and efficiently, programs like the I-Corps
create new jobs and companies, help solve societal problems, and
provide taxpayers with a greater return on their investment in
research.
(5) The I-Corps program model has a strong record of success
that should be replicated at all Federal science agencies.
(b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) commercialization of federally funded research can improve
the Nation's competitiveness, grow the economy, and benefit
society;
(2) I-Corps is a useful tool in promoting the commercialization
of federally funded research by training researchers funded by the
Foundation in entrepreneurship and commercialization;
(3) I-Corps should continue to build a network of
entrepreneurs, educators, mentors, and institutions and support
specialized education and training;
(4) researchers other than those funded by the Foundation may
also benefit from the education and training described in paragraph
(3); and
(5) I-Corps should continue to promote a strong innovation
system by investing in and supporting female entrepreneurs through
mentorship, education, and training because they are historically
underrepresented in entrepreneurial fields.
(c) I-Corps Program.--
(1) In general.--In order to promote a strong, lasting
foundation for the national innovation ecosystem and increase the
positive economic and social impact of federally funded research,
the Director of the Foundation shall set forth eligibility
requirements and carry out a program to award grants for
entrepreneurship and commercialization education, training, and
mentoring.
(2) Expansion of i-corps.--
(A) In general.--The Director--
(i) shall encourage the development and expansion of I-
Corps and other training programs that focus on
professional development, including education in
entrepreneurship and commercialization; and
(ii) may establish an agreement with another Federal
science agency--
(I) to make researchers, students, and institutions
funded by that agency eligible to participate in the I-
Corps program; or
(II) to assist that agency with the design and
implementation of its own program that is similar to
the I-Corps program.
(B) Partnership funding.--In negotiating an agreement with
another Federal science agency under subparagraph (A)(ii), the
Director shall require that Federal science agency to provide
funding for--
(i) the training for researchers, students, and
institutions selected for the I-Corps program; and
(ii) the locations that Federal science agency
designates as regional and national infrastructure for
science and engineering entrepreneurship.
(3) Follow-on grants.--
(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), the Director,
in consultation with the Director of the Small Business
Innovation Research Program, shall make funds available for
competitive grants, including to I-Corps participants, to help
support--
(i) prototype or proof-of-concept development; and
(ii) such activities as the Director considers
necessary to build local, regional, and national
infrastructure for science and engineering
entrepreneurship.
(B) Limitation.--Grants under subparagraph (A) shall be
limited to participants with innovations that because of the
early stage of development are not eligible to participate in a
Small Business Innovation Research Program or a Small Business
Technology Transfer Program.
(4) State and local partnerships.--The Director may engage in
partnerships with State and local governments, economic development
organizations, and nonprofit organizations to provide access to the
I-Corps program to support entrepreneurship education and training
for researchers, students, and institutions under this subsection.
(5) Reports.--The Director shall submit to the appropriate
committees of Congress a biennial report on I-Corps program
efficacy, including metrics on the effectiveness of the program.
Each Federal science agency participating in the I-Corps program or
that implements a similar program under paragraph (2)(A) shall
contribute to the report.
(6) Definitions.--In this subsection, the terms ``Small
Business Innovation Research Program'' and ``Small Business
Technology Transfer Program'' have the meanings given those terms
in section 9 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 638).
SEC. 602. TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH GRANTS.
(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) commercialization of federally funded research may benefit
society and the economy; and
(2) not-for-profit organizations support the commercialization
of federally funded research by providing useful business and
technical expertise to researchers.
(b) Commercialization Promotion.--The Director of the Foundation
shall continue to award grants on a competitive, merit-reviewed basis
to eligible entities to promote the commercialization of federally
funded research results.
(c) Use of Funds.--Activities supported by grants under this
section may include--
(1) identifying Foundation-sponsored research and technologies
that have the potential for accelerated commercialization;
(2) supporting prior or current Foundation-sponsored
investigators, institutions of higher education, and non-profit
organizations that partner with an institution of higher education
in undertaking proof-of-concept work, including development of
prototypes of technologies that are derived from Foundation-
sponsored research and have potential market value;
(3) promoting sustainable partnerships between Foundation-
funded institutions, industry, and other organizations within
academia and the private sector with the purpose of accelerating
the transfer of technology;
(4) developing multi-disciplinary innovation ecosystems which
involve and are responsive to specific needs of academia and
industry; and
(5) providing professional development, mentoring, and advice
in entrepreneurship, project management, and technology and
business development to innovators.
(d) Eligibility.--
(1) In general.--The following organizations may be eligible
for grants under this section:
(A) Institutions of higher education.
(B) Public or nonprofit technology transfer organizations.
(C) A nonprofit organization that partners with an
institution of higher education.
(D) A consortia of 2 or more of the organizations described
under subparagraphs (A) through (C).
(2) Lead organizations.--Any eligible organization under
paragraph (1) may apply as a lead organization.
(e) Applications.--An eligible entity seeking a grant under this
section shall submit an application to the Director at such time, in
such manner, and containing such information as the Director may
require.
SEC. 603. OPTICS AND PHOTONICS TECHNOLOGY INNOVATIONS.
(a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
(1) The 1998 National Research Council Report, ``Harnessing
Light'' presented a comprehensive overview on the importance of
optics and photonics to various sectors of the United States
economy.
(2) In 2012, in response to increased coordination and
investment by other nations, the National Research Council released
a follow up study recommending a national photonics initiative to
increase collaboration and coordination among United States
industry, Federal and State government, and academia to identify
and further advance areas of photonics critical to regaining United
States competitiveness and maintaining national security.
(3) Publicly-traded companies focused on optics and photonics
in the United States enable more than $3 trillion in revenue
annually.
(b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) optics and photonics research and technologies promote
United States global competitiveness in industry sectors, including
telecommunications and information technology, energy, healthcare
and medicine, manufacturing, and defense;
(2) Federal science agencies, industry, and academia should
seek partnerships with each other to develop basic research in
optics and photonics into more mature technologies and
capabilities; and
(3) each Federal science agency, as appropriate, should--
(A) survey and identify optics and photonics-related
programs within that Federal science agency and share results
with other Federal science agencies for the purpose of
generating multiple applications and uses;
(B) partner with the private sector and academia to
leverage knowledge and resources to maximize opportunities for
innovation in optics and photonics;
(C) explore research and development opportunities,
including Federal and private sector-sponsored internships, to
ensure a highly trained optics and photonics workforce in the
United States;
(D) encourage partnerships between academia and industry to
promote improvement in the education of optics and photonics
technicians at the secondary school level, undergraduate level,
and 2-year college level, including through the Foundation's
Advanced Technological Education program; and
(E) assess existing programs and explore alternatives to
modernize photonics laboratory equipment in undergraduate
institutions in the United States to facilitate critical hands-
on learning.
SEC. 604. UNITED STATES CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER.
(a) Short Title.--This section may be cited as the ``United States
Chief Technology Officer Act''.
(b) In General.--Section 203 the National Science and Technology
Policy, Organization, and Priorities Act of 1976 (42 U.S.C. 6612) is
amended--
(1) by inserting ``(b) Associate Directors.--'' before ``The
President is authorized'' and indenting appropriately;
(2) by inserting ``(a) In General.--'' before ``There shall
be'' and indenting appropriately; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(c) Chief Technology Officer.--Subject to subsection (b), the
President is authorized to designate 1 of the Associate Directors under
that subsection as a United States Chief Technology Officer.''.
SEC. 605. NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL STUDY ON TECHNOLOGY FOR
EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS ON CAMPUSES.
(a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Director of the Office of Science and Technology
Policy shall enter into an arrangement with the National Research
Council to conduct and complete a study to identify and review
technologies employed at institutions of higher education to provide
notifications to students, faculty, and other personnel during
emergency situations in accordance with law.
(b) Contents.--The study shall address--
(1) the timeliness of notifications provided by the
technologies during emergency situations;
(2) the durability of the technologies in delivering the
notifications to students, faculty, and other personnel; and
(3) the limitations exhibited by the technologies to
successfully deliver the notifications not more than 30 seconds
after the institution of higher education transmits the
notifications.
(c) Report Required.--Not later than 1 year after the date that the
National Research Council enters into the arrangement under subsection
(a), the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall
submit to Congress a report on the study, including recommendations for
addressing any limitations identified under subsection (b)(3).
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate.