Bill > HR4176

This bill, the Science Laureates of the United States Act of 2014, proposes to establish a new position called the Science Laureate of the United States to honor accomplished scientists who can effectively communicate the importance and excitement of scientific research and education to the public. The bill highlights Congress's findings that scientific advancement has historically driven success in the United States, improved lives, and holds promise for future progress, job creation, and economic growth. The National Academy of Sciences would be responsible for appointing a Science Laureate based on their ability to foster public awareness and interest in science, as well as their ongoing significant scientific contributions, with an aim to select individuals from diverse scientific disciplines over time. The Science Laureate's duties would involve engaging the public to increase awareness about science, and they would be encouraged to continue their own scientific work, with the National Academy of Sciences facilitating these duties. This position would serve a one-year term, potentially renewable, and the Laureate would serve without pay, not being considered a federal employee, though the National Academy of Sciences may reimburse travel expenses. Importantly, this role would not duplicate or supersede the function of the President's Science Advisor.