Bill > HR3124

This bill aims to increase participation of historically underrepresented groups in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by establishing a competitive grant program through the National Science Foundation (NSF). The bill begins by presenting extensive data demonstrating significant disparities in STEM education and workforce representation for women, racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and persons with disabilities. Under the proposed program, eligible entities can receive grants to implement activities such as online workshops, mentoring programs, internships, outreach programs for elementary and secondary students, and initiatives to recruit and retain underrepresented faculty. The bill broadly defines "minority" to include various racial, ethnic, and gender identity groups that are underrepresented in STEM fields. Specifically, the NSF will be authorized to award grants to support programs designed to increase participation and retention of these groups in STEM education and careers. The bill includes a funding authorization of $15 million annually for fiscal years 2026-2030 to support these efforts, with the ultimate goal of creating a more diverse, innovative, and competitive STEM workforce in the United States.

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https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3124/all-info