Rep. McNerney's New Legislation Would Invest in Opportunities for Girls in STEM

Press Release

A long-time supporter of investment in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), Congressman Jerry McNerney (CA-09) has introduced legislation to expand opportunities for young women to pursue careers in STEM and ensure our nation can continue to compete in the global economy The Getting Involved in Researching, Learning and Studying of STEM (GIRLS STEM) Act would establish a program at the Department of Education to increase female students' participation through access to STEM education and vocational counseling.

"Women make up almost half of the American workforce but hold less than a quarter of jobs in STEM fields," said Congressman McNerney. "If our country is going to continue to lead in innovation, we can't afford to leave 50% of our citizens out of the jobs that will drive our future economy. This legislation would give young women and girls the chance to explore the endless opportunities STEM provides and empower them with the tools they need to purse successful, rewarding careers in these fields."

The GIRLS STEM Act would provide grants to local educational agencies to develop plans that would encourage young women to study STEM, educate students' parents about STEM opportunities for their children, provide training and mentoring opportunities for students, and prepare secondary students for college STEM programs.

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