Bill > HR3293

This bill, titled the Scientific Research in the National Interest Act, mandates that the National Science Foundation (NSF) must make a written determination, justifying in writing, that any new federal funding awarded for basic scientific research and education through a grant or cooperative agreement actively promotes the progress of science in the United States, is worthy of taxpayer money, and meets specific criteria. These criteria include being consistent with established scientific methods, aligning with the definition of basic research, and serving the national interest by potentially boosting economic competitiveness, improving public health and welfare, developing a globally competitive STEM workforce, increasing scientific literacy, fostering academic-industry partnerships, supporting national defense, or generally advancing science within the U.S. This determination must be made only after a research proposal has already passed the NSF's existing reviews for "Merit" (the scientific quality of the research) and "Broader Impacts" (the potential for the research to benefit society). Importantly, this bill does not affect any research grants or agreements already funded by the NSF before the law is enacted.