Nist Reauthorization Act of 2014

Floor Speech

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Mr. BUCSHON. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

As the chairman of the Subcommittee on Research and Technology, I would like to thank the full committee chairman, Mr. Smith, the full committee ranking member, Ms. Johnson, and the subcommittee ranking member, Mr. Lipinski, for their bipartisan work on this bill.

This bill reauthorizes the National Institute of Standards and Technology, also known as NIST. Whether contributing to the technology of the smoke detector or developing X-ray standards for mammograms, NIST has had a substantial impact on our Nation's scientific and technological developments, industry, and economy for over 100 years.

H.R. 5035 authorizes $850 million for NIST in fiscal year 2014 and $855.8 million in fiscal year 2015. This bill implements changes and updates to ensure responsible use of taxpayer funds during tight fiscal times, while still maintaining a competitive edge in the United States.

H.R. 5035 adds language to emphasize NIST's role in advancing our Nation's technological competitiveness and innovation ability, and enables more information sharing related to technological standards. Additionally, this legislation codifies NIST's outreach and education efforts.

Another critical program in this legislation is the Hollings Manufacturing Partnership, or MEP. This program provides assistance to small, U.S.-based manufacturing companies to help identify and adopt new technologies and manufacturing techniques.

This bill answers a need expressed by the manufacturing community and changes the existing cost share structure within the MEP program so that a 1-1 ratio of Federal and matching funds is held throughout the life of the center.

The bill also includes language to ensure centers are reevaluated and face a new competition every 10 years.

In my State of Indiana, Purdue University serves as the MEP of our region. Clabber Girl, a small business I visited in the Eighth District of Indiana, is a prime example of the important impact MEPs have on our economy. This manufacturer of baking powder, baking soda, and cornstarch has utilized Purdue University's Technical Assistance Program, which has assisted over 12,000 organizations and trained over 26,000 employees since 1986.

I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, as NIST is an agency critical to the advancement of the United States technology and scientific industries.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

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