Bill > HR4999

This bill aims to support education and workforce development in fusion sciences and engineering through multiple initiatives. The bill authorizes the National Science Foundation (NSF) and Department of Energy (DOE) to provide grants to educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and labor organizations to develop innovative approaches to fusion education and workforce training. Key activities include creating industry-oriented curricula, developing training programs for teachers, identifying critical skills for fusion technologies, providing hands-on learning experiences, increasing fusion content in STEM education, supporting research experiences for students at various levels, and establishing internships and apprenticeships. A significant component is the creation of a Fusion Skilled Technical Workforce and STEM Education Coordination Hub, which will serve as a national clearinghouse for fusion education programs, facilitate employment opportunities, coordinate with industry partners, and support recruitment of underrepresented groups in STEM. The bill specifically allocates $20 million to the NSF and $10 million to the DOE annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to implement these programs, with a focus on developing a diverse and sustainable workforce to meet the evolving needs of the fusion industry, academia, national laboratories, and government agencies.

Business and Industry

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4999/all-info