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1976/05/11 HR10230 National Science and Technology Policy Organization and Priorities Act of 1976 (2)
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1976/05/11 HR10230 National Science and Technology Policy Organization and Priorities Act of 1976 (2)
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White House Records Office: Legislation Case Files
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President (1974-1977 : Ford). Office of Science and Technology Policy. (5/11/1976 - 1/20/1977)
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The original documents are located in Box 45, folder "5/11/76 HR10230 National Science
and Technology Policy Organization and Priorities Act of 1976 (2)" of the White House
Records Office: Legislation Case Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald R. Ford donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Exact duplicates within this folder were not digitized.
Digitized from Box 45 of the White House Records Office Legislation Case Files
at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
Calendar No. 596
94TH CONGRESS
2d Session
~
SENATE
REPORT
No. 94-622
NATIONAL POLICY, ORGANIZATION, AND PRIORITIES
FOR SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY ACT
OF 1976
FEBRUARY 3, 1976.-Ordered to be printed
Mr. KENNEDY, from the Committee on Labor and Public Welfare, the
Committee on Commerce, and the Committee on Aeronautical and
Space Sciences, submitted the following
JOINT REPORT
[To accompany S. 32]
The Committee on Labor and Public Welfare, the Committee on
Commerce, and the Committee on Aeronautical and Space Sciences, to
which was referred the bill (S. 32) to establish a framework for the
formulation of national policy and priorities for science and tech-
nology, and for other purposes, having considered the same, report
favorably thereon with an amendment in the nature of a substitute and
recommend that the bill, as amended, do pass.
COMMITTEE AMENDMENT
The amendment is as follows:
That this Act may be cited as the "National Policy, Organi-
zation, and Priorities for Science, Engineering, and Tech-
nology Act of 1976".
TITLE I-NATIONAL SCIENCE, ENGINEERING,
AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY AND PRIORITIES
FINDINGS
SEC. 101. The Congress, recognizing the profound impact
of science, engineering, and technology on society, and the
interrelations of scientific, engineering, technological, eco-
57-010 o
2
3
nomic, social, political, international, and institutional fac-
(1) There must be a continuing national investment
tors, hereby finds that-
in science, engineering, and technology adequate to the
(1) Federal funding for science, engineering, and
needs of the Nation.
technology represents an investment in the future which
(2) The level of this investment must be commensur-
is indispensable to sustain national progress and human
ate with national needs and opportunities and the prev-
betterment;
alent economic situation.
(2) the manpower pool of scientists, engineers, and
(3) The Federal Government must promote the effec-
technicians constitutes an invaluable national resource
tive and efficient utilization in the national interest of the
which should be utilized to the fullest extent possible;
Nation's human resources in science, engineering, and
(3) the scientific, engineering, and technological
technology.
capabilities within the United States, when properly
(4) The Nation's capabilities for technology assess-
fostered, applied, and directed, can effectively assist in
ment and for technological planning and policy formu-
improving the quality of life, in anticipating and re-
lation must be strengthened at both Federal and State
solving many critical and emerging international, na-
levels.
tional, and local problems, in strengthening America's
(5) The Federal investment in science, engineering,
international economic competitive position, and in fur-
and technology must be used to help meet the priority
thering the Nation's foreign policy objectives;
needs of the Nation, including but not limited to—
(4) strong participation by State and local govern-
(A) maintaining the Nation's strength in basic
ments is essential to the successful solution of many civil-
and applied research and education in science and
ian problems, and in developing programs for the appli-
engineering;
cation of science, engineering, and technology to civilian
(B) assuring widespread dissemination of scien-
needs and to setting priorities for civilian research and
tific, engineering, and technological knowledge;
development activities;
(C) utilizing science, engineering, and technology
(5) the widespread influence of technology in society
in support of the Nation's domestic and foreign
requires sound planning and management to meet human
policy goals;
needs;
(D) promoting the conservation and efficient utili-
(6) the maintenance and strengthening of diver-
zation of the Nation's natural and human resources;
sified scientific, engineering, and technological capabilities
(E) providing for the protection of the oceans and
in government, industry, and the universities, and the
the coastal zones, and the efficient utilization of their
encouragement of independent initiatives based on such
resources;
capabilities, are essential to the most effective use of
(F) strengthening the economy and promoting
science, engineering, and technology in resolving critical
full employment through useful technological
and emerging national problems;
innovations;
(7) a systematic approach is needed to identify and
(G) assuring an adequate supply of food, ma-
anticipate critical and emerging national problems and
terials, and energy for the Nation's needs;
to analyze, plan, and coordinate Federal science, engi-
(H) strengthening the national security;
neering, and technology programs, policies, and activities
(I) improving the quality of health care avail-
intended to contribute to the resolution of such problems,
able to all United States citizens;
including long-range, inclusive planning as well as inter-
(J) improving the Nation's transportation and
mediate and short-range program development; and
communication services;
(8) the effectiveness of scientific, engineering, and
(K) increasing the quality of educational op-
technological contributions to the achievement of national
portunities available to all United States citizens.
goals depends on the maintenance of a strong base of
(L) assuring the provision of effective public
knowledge in science, engineering, and advanced tech-
services throughout urban, suburban, and rural areas
nology together with a resource of highly qualified scien-
in fields such as public safety, firefighting, and
tists and engineers.
sanitation;
(M) developing high-quality, low-cost housing
DECLARATION OF POLICIES AND PRIORITIES
systems;
SEC. 102. The Congress declares that it is the continuing
(N) eliminating air and water pollution and un-
policy and responsibility of the Federal Government to take
necessary, unhealthful, or ineffective drugs and food
additives; and
appropriate measures to achieve the following goals:
(0) enhancing the quality of the environment.
4
5
(b) Any Associate Director appointed by the President
DECLARATION OF PURPOSE
shall be chosen from among individuals who (1) by reason of
SEC. 103. It is declared to be the purpose of this Act to
their training, experience, and attainments, are exceptionally
promote the effective application of science, engineering, and
qualified to analyze and interpret the implications of scien-
technology to the furtherance of national goals by-
tific, engineering, and technological development and to ap-
(1) establishing, in the Executive Office of the Pres-
praise and recommend programs, policies, and activities of
ident, an Office of Science, Engineering, and Technology
the Federal Government in the light of the policies and pri-
Policy to provide a continuing source of science, engineer-
orities set forth in section 102 of this Act; and (2) are sensi-
ing, and technology policy analysis and judgment to the
tive to the economic, social, esthetic, and cultural needs and
President;
interests of the Nation.
(2) establishing a State and Regional Science, Engi-
(c) Any Associate Director appointed by the President
neering, and Technology Program to foster the applica-
shall perform such functions as the Director may from time
tion of science, engineering, and technology to State and
to time prescribe.
regional needs;
(3) establishing an Interagency Federal Coordinat-
FEDERAL INVESTMENT AND PRIORITIES
ing Group on Science, Engineering, and Technology to
coordinate agency research and development efforts; and
SEC. 204. (a) (1) Within its first year of operation, the
(4) having the President submit an annual Science,
Office shall, to the extent practicable, within the limitations
Engineering, and Technology Report to the Congress.
of available knowledge and resources, prepare a five-year
forecast of estimated levels of Federal investment in science,
TITLE II-OFFICE OF SCIENCE, ENGINEERING,
engineering, and technology in accordance with established
AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
national policies and priorities, including those policies and
priorities declared in section 102 of this Act.
(2) The forecast shall include estimates, for each year
ESTABLISHMENT
included in the forecast, of the allocation of Federal funds
SEC. 201. There is established in the Executive Office of
among major expenditure areas in science, engineering, and
the President an Office of Science, Engineering, and Tech-
technology.
nology Policy (hereinafter referred to as the "Office").
(b) The Office shall annually revise the five-year forecast
developed under subsection (a) of this section SO that it takes
DIRECTOR
appropriate account of changing national needs and cir-
cumstances, and extend the forecast SO that it always extends
SEC. 202. (a) The Office shall be administered by a Director
five years into the future.
who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the
(c) The Office shall annually appraise progress in science,
advice and consent of the Senate, and who shall be com-
engineering, and technology in relation to the needs of the
pensated at the rate provided for level II of the Executive
Nation and the five-year forecasts developed under subsec-
Schedule in section 5313 of title 5, United States Code.
tions (a) and (b) of this section and shall estimate a range
(b) The President shall choose a Director from among
of options for various levels of Federal investment in science,
individuals who (1) by reason of their training, experience,
engineering, and technology for the fiscal year immediately
and attainments, are exceptionally qualified to analyze and
following the fiscal year in which such estimates are made,
interpret the implications of scientific, engineering, and tech-
including among the options that level of Federal investment
nological development and to appraise and recommend pro-
which would assure optimum utilization of the Nation's sci-
grams, policies, and activities of the Federal Government
ence, engineering, and technology resources.
in the light of the policies and priorities set forth in section 102
(d) The Office shall annually assess alternative uses of Fed-
of this Act: and (2) are sensitive to the economic, social,
eral funds for science, engineering, and technology in relation
esthetic, and cultural needs and interests of the Nation.
to scientific, engineering, and technical opportunities and na-
tional needs and the five-year forecasts developed under sub-
ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS
sections (a) and (b) of this section, and on the basis thereof
shall prepare a range of priority options for allocating Fed-
SEC. 203. (a) The President is authorized to appoint not to
eral funds among major expenditure areas in science, engi-
exceed four Associate Directors, bv and with the advice and
neering, and technology, which pertain to the fiscal year im-
consent of the Senate, and who shall be compensated at a rate
mediately following the fiscal year in which such priorities
not to exceed level III of the Executive Schedule in section
are prepared.
5314 of title 5, United States Code.
6
7
(e) The Director shall furnish the options prepared under
the various departments and agencies which affect re-
subsections (c) and (d) of this section, together with neces-
search and development activities, both internally and in
sary supporting analyses and data, to the Office of Manage-
relation to the private sector, or which may interfere
ment and Budget for use in developing budget recommenda-
with desirable technological innovation, together with
tions to the President.
recommendations for the elimination, reform, or updat-
ing, as appropriate, of such statutes and regulations;
POLICY PLANNING, ANALYSIS, AND ADVICE
(8) develop, review, revise, and recommend criteria
SEC. 205. The Office shall serve as a source of scientific, en-
for determining scientific, engineering, and technological
activities warranting Federal support, and recommend
gineering, and technological analysis and judgment for the
Federal policies designed to advance (A) the develop-
President with respect to major policies, plans, and programs
ment and maintenance of broadly based scientific, engi-
of the Federal Government. In carrying out this function, the
Director shall-
neering, and technological capabilities, including human
resources, at all levels of government, academia, and in-
(1) seek to define coherent approaches for applying
dustry, and (B) the effective application of such capa-
science, engineering, and technology to critical and
bilities to national needs;
emerging national and international problems and for
(9) assess and advise on policies for international co-
promoting coordination of the scientific, engineering, and
technological responsibilities and programs of the Fed-
operation in science, engineering, and technology which
eral departments and agencies in the resolution of such
will advance the national and international objectives of
problems;
the United States;
(2) assist and advise the President in the prepara-
(10) identify and assess emerging and future areas in
tion of the Science, Engineering, and Technology Report,
which science, engineering, and technology can be used
in accordance with section 208 of this Act;
effectively in addressing national and international
(3) gather timely and authoritative information con-
problems;
cerning significant developments and trends in science,
(11) report at least once each year to the President on
engineering, technology, and in national priorities, both
the overall activities and accomplishments of the Office,
current and prospective, to analyze and interpret such
pursuant to section 208 of this Act; and
information for the purpose of determining whether such
(12) perform such other duties and functions and
developments and trends are likely to affect achievement
make and furnish such studies and reports thereon, and
of the priority needs set forth in section 102 of this
recommendations with respect to matters of policy and
Act;
legislation as the President may request.
(4) encourage the development and maintenance of
ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS OF THE DIRECTOR
an adequate data base for human resources in science,
engineering, and technology, including the development
SEC. 206. (a) The Director shall, in addition to the other
of appropriate models to forecast future manpower
duties and functions set forth in this title-
requirements, and assess the impact of major govern-
(1) serve as Chairman of the Federal Coordinating
mental and public programs on human resources and
Group for Science, Engineering, and Technology estab-
their utilization;
lished under title IV;
(5) initiate studies and analyses, including sys-
(2) serve as a member of the Domestic Council; and
tems analyses and technology assessments, of alternatives
(3) serve as a member of the Intergovernmental Sci-
available for the resolution of critical and emerging na-
ence, Engineering, and Technology Advisory Panel es-
tional and international problems amenable to the con-
tablished under title V of this Act.
tributions of science, engineering, and technology and,
(b) For the purpose of assuring the optimum contribution
insofar as possible, determine and compare probable
of science, engineering, and technology to the national secu-
costs, benefits, and impacts of such alternatives;
rity, the Director, at the request of the National Security
(6) advise the President on the extent to which the
Council, shall advise the National Security Council in such
various scientific and technical programs, policies, and
matters concerning science, engineering, and technology as
activities of the Federal Government are likely to affect
relate to national security.
the achievement of the priority needs of the Nation as
(c) The Director, in order to fulfill his functions under this
set forth in section 102 (5) of this Act;
title, is authorized to-
(7) provide the President with periodic reviews of
Federal statutes and administrative regulations of
(1) appoint, assign the duties, and fix the compensa-
tion of personnel without regard to the provisions of title
9
8
(c) Upon request, the Administrator of the National Aero-
5, United States Code, governing appointments in the
nautics and Space Administration is authorized to assist the
competitive service, and without regard to the provisions
Director with respect to carrying out his activities conducted
of chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of such
title, relating to classification and General Schedule pay
under paragraph (5) of section 205 of this Act.
rates, at rates not in excess of the rate prescribed for
GS-18 of the General Schedule under section 5332 of
SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY REPORT
such title; and
SEC. 208. (a) The President shall transmit annually to the
(2) enter into contracts and other arrangements for
Congress, beginning February 15, 1977, a Science Engineer-
studies, analyses, and other services with public agencies
ing, and Technology Report (hereinafter referred to as the
and with private persons, organizations, or institutions,
"Report") which shall be prepared by the Office, with appro-
and make such payments as he deems necessary to carry
priate assistance from the departments and agencies and such
out the provisions of this Act without legal considera-
consultants and contractors as the Director deems necessary.
tion, without performance bonds, and without regard to
The report shall include the estimates on Federal investment
section 3709 of the Revised Statutes (41 U.S.C. 5).
level and proposed priorities in science, engineering, and
technology, prepared by the Director pursuant to section 204
COORDINATION WITH OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
of this Act, and to the extent practicable, within the limita-
tions of available knowledge and resources, include such
SEC. 207. (a) In exercising his functions under this title,
issues as-
the Director shall-
(1) work in close consultation and cooperation with
(1) a review of developments of national significance
the Domestic Council, the National Security Council, the
in science, engineering, and technology;
(2) the significant effects of current and projected
Council on Environmental Quality, the Council of Eco-
trends in science, engineering, and technology on the
nomic Advisers, the Office of Management and Budget,
social, economic, and other requirements of the Nation;
and the Federal departments and agencies;
(2) utilize the services of consultants, establish such
(3) a review and appraisal of selected science-, engi-
advisory panels, and, to the extent practicable, consult
neering-, and technology-related programs, policies, and
activities of the Federal Government;
with State and local governmental agencies, with appro-
priate professional groups, and with such representa-
(4) an inventory and forecast of critical and emerging
national problems the resolution of which might be sub-
tives of industry, the universities, agriculture, labor, con-
sumers, conservation organizations, and such other public
stantially assisted by the application of science, engineer-
interest groups, organizations, and individuals as he
ing, and technology;
(5) the identification and assessment of scientific,
deems advisable;
(3) hold such hearings in various parts of the Nation
engineering, and technological measures that can con-
tribute to the resolution of such problems, in light of the
as he deems necessary, to determine the views of the
agencies, groups, and organizations referred to in para-
related social, economic, political, and institutional
graph (2) of this subsection and of the general public,
considerations;
concerning national needs and trends in science, engi-
(6) the existing and projected scientific, engineering,
neering, and technology; and
and technological resources, including specialized man-
power, that could contribute to the resolution of such
(4) utilize with their consent to the fullest extent pos-
sible the services, personnel, equipment, facilities, and
problems; and
information (including statistical information) of public
(7) recommendations for legislation on science, engi-
and private agencies and organizations, and individuals,
neering-, and technology-related programs and policies
that will contribute to the resolution of such problems.
in order to avoid duplication of effort and expense, and
may transfer funds made available pursuant to this act
(b) In preparing the Report under subsection (a) of
this section, the Office shall make maximum use of relevant
to other Federal agencies as reimbursement for the
data available from the National Science Foundation and
utilization of such personnel, services, facilities, equip-
other government departments and agencies.
ment, and information.
(c) The Director shall insure that the Report, in the
(b) Each department, agency, and instrumentality of the
Executive Branch of the Government, including any inde-
form approved by the President, is printed and made avail-
pendent agency, is authorized to furnish the Director such
able as a public document.
information as the Director deems necessary to carry out his
functions under this title.
S. Rept. 622 O 76 2
10
11
TITLE III-PRESIDENT'S ADVISORY COMMITTEE
funding, organization, facilities, and activities in general,
ON SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY
taking adequate account of the interests of individuals and
groups that may be affected by Federal scientific, engineering,
ESTABLISHMENT
and technical programs, including, as appropriate, consulta-
tion with such individuals and groups. In carrying out its
SEC. 301. The President is authorized to establish within
functions under this section, the Committee shall consider
the Executive Office of the President a President's Advisory
needs for-
Committee on Science, Engineering, and Technology (here-
(1) the establishment of such new departments, agen-
inafter referred to as the "Committee").
cies, offices, or other organizations as may serve to
strengthen the Nation's scientific, engineering, and tech-
MEMBERSHIP
nical capabilities and increase the effectiveness of their
SEC. 302. (a) The Committee shall consist of-
application to the solution of national problems;
(1) the Director of the Office of Science, Engineer-
(2) improvements in existing systems for handling
ing, and Technology Policy established under title II of
scientific, engineering, and technical information on a
this Act; and
Government-wide basis, including consideration of the
(2) not less than eight nor more than fourteen other
appropriate role to be played by the private sector in the
members appointed by the President.
dissemination of such information;
(b) Members of the Committee appointed by the Presi-
(3) improved technology assessment in the executive
dent pursuant to subsection (a) (1) of this section shall-
branch of the Federal Government;
(1) be exceptionally qualified and distinguished in
(4) improved methods for effecting technology in-
science, engineering, technology, information dissemina-
novation, transfer, and use;
tion, education, management, labor, or public affairs;
(5) stimulating more effective Federal-State and Fed-
(2) be highly capable of critically assessing the
eral-industry liaison and cooperation in science, engineer-
policies, priorities, programs, and activities of the Na-
ing, and technology;
tion, with respect to the findings, policies, and purposes
(6) reduction and simplification of Federal regula-
set forth in title I; and
tions and administrative practices and procedures which
(3) shall collectively constitute a balanced composi-
may have the effect of retarding technological innova-
tion or opportunities for its utilization
tion with respect to (A) fields of science and engineering,
(B) academic, industrial, and government experience,
(7) a broader base for support of basic research;
and (C) business, labor, consumer, and public interest
(8) ways of strengthening the Nation's academic in-
stitutions' capabilities for research and education in
points of view.
(c) The President shall appoint one member of the Com-
science, engineering, and technology;
mittee to serve as Chairman and another member to serve
(9) ways and means of effectively integrating scien-
as Vice Chairman for such periods as the President may
tific, engineering, and technical factors into our national
determine.
and international policies;
(d) Each member of the Committee who is not an officer
(10) technology designed to meet community and
of the Federal Government shall, while serving on business
individual needs;
of the Committee, be entitled to receive compensation at a
(11) maintenance of adequate scientific, engineering,
rate not to exceed the daily rate prescribed for GS-18 of the
and technological manpower with regard to both quality
General Schedule under section 5332 of title 5, United States
and quantity;
Code, including traveltime, and while SO serving away from
(12) improved systems for planning and analysis of
his home or regular place of business he may be allowed travel
the Federal science, engineering, and technology pro-
expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in the
grams; and
same manner as the expenses authorized by section 5703 (b)
(13) long-range study, analysis, and planning in re-
of title 5, United States Code, for persons in Government
gard to the application of science, engineering, and tech-
service employed intermittently.
nology to major national problems or concerns.
(b) (1) Within one year of the appointment of a majority
of its members, the Committee shall submit a report to the
FEDERAL SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY SURVEY
President of its activities, findings, conclusions, and recom-
SEC. 303. (a) The Committee shall survey, examine, and
mendations including such supporting data and material as
analyze the overall context of the Federal science, engineer-
may be necessary.
ing, and technology effort including missions, goals, personnel,
13
12
(2) After appropriate review of the report submitted
rank, office, or grade, or of any emolument, perquisite, right,
under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the President shall
privilege or benefit incident thereto to military personnel SO
transmit the report to the Congress, together with any recom-
detailed. Each such detail shall be made pursuant to an
mendations he may-wish to make concerning its findings.
agreement between the Chairman and the head of the rele-
vant department, agency, or instrumentality, and shall be
CONTINUATION OF COMMITTEE
in accordance with the provisions of subchapter III of chap-
ter 33, title 5, United States Code.
SEC. 304. (a) Ninety days after transmission of the report
prepared under section 303, the Committee shall cease to exist
TITLE IV-FEDERAL COORDINATING GROUP
unless the President, before the expiration of the ninety-day
FOR SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY
period, makes a determination that it is advantageous for the
Committee to continue in being.
ESTABLISHMENT AND FUNCTIONS
(b) If the President determines that it is advantageous
for the Committee to continue in being, (1) the Committee
SEC. 401. (a) There is established the Federal Coordinat-
shall continue in being and shall exercise such functions as
ing Group for Science, Engineering, and Technology (here-
are prescribed by the President; and (2) the members of the
inafter referred to as the "Group").
Committee shall serve at the pleasure of the President.
(b) The Group shall be composed of the Director of the
Office of Science, Engineering, and Technology Policy and
STAFF AND CONSULTANT SUPPORT
one representative of each of the following Federal agencies:
Department of Agriculture, Department of Commerce, De-
SEC. 305. (a) In the performance of its functions under sec-
partment of Defense, Department of Health, Education, and
tions 303 and 304, the Committee is authorized-
Welfare, Department of Housing and Urban Development,
(1) to select, appoint, employ, and fix the compensa-
Department of the Interior, Department of State, Depart-
tion of such specialists and other experts as may be nec-
ment of Transportation, Veterans' Administration, Nuclear
essary for the carrying out of its functions under this
Regulatory Commission, National Aeronautics and Space
Act, in accordance with section 3109 of title 5, United
Administration, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admin-
States Code (but without regard to the last sentence
istration, National Science Foundation, Environmental Pro-
thereof) ;
tection Agency, and Energy Research and Development
(2) to appoint, assign the duties, and fix the compen-
Administration. Each such representative shall be an official
sation of personnel without regard to the provisions of
of policy rank designated by the head of the Federal agency
title 5, United States Code, governing appointments in
concerned.
the competitive service, and without regard to the pro-
(c) The Director of the Office of Science, Engineering,
visions of chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53
and Technology Policy shall serve as Chairman of the Group.
of such title, relating to classification and General Sched-
The Chairman may make provision for another member of
ule pay rates, at rates not in excess of the rate prescribed
the Group to act temporarily in the Chairman's absence as
for GS-18 of the General Schedule under section 5332 of
Chairman of the Group.
such title; and
(d) The Chairman may (1) request the head of any
(3) to provide for the participation of such civilian
Federal agency not named in subsection (b) of this section
and military personnel as may be detailed to the Com-
to designate a representative to participate in meetings or
mittee pursuant to subsection (b) of this section for car-
parts of meetings of the Group concerned with matters of
rying out the functions of the Committee.
substantial interest to such agency, and (2) invite other
(b) Upon request of the Committee, the head of any Fed-
persons to attend meetings of the Group.
eral department, agency, or instrumentality is authorized
(e) The Group shall consider problems and developments
(1) to furnish to the Committee such information as may be
in the fields of science, engineering, and technology and re-
necessary for carrying out its functions and as may be avail-
lated activities affecting more than one Federal agency, and
able to or procurable by such department, agency, or instru-
shall recommend policies and other measures designed to—
mentality, and (2) to detail to temporary duty with the Com-
(1) provide more effective planning and administra-
mittee on a reimbursable basis such personnel within his ad-
tion of Federal scientific, engineering, and technological
ministrative jurisdiction as it may need or believe to be useful
programs,
for carrying out its functions. Each such detail shall be
(2) identify research needs including areas of research
without loss of seniority, pay, or other employee status, to
requiring additional emphasis,
civilian employees SO detailed, and without loss of status,
14
15
(3) achieve more effective utilization of the scientific,
pensation at a rate not to exceed the daily rate prescribed for
engineering, and technological resources and facilities of
GS-18 of the General Schedule under section 5332 of title v,
Federal agencies, including the elimination of unneces-
United States Code, including traveltime, and while SO serv-
sary duplication, and
ing away from his home or regular place of business, he may
(4) further international cooperation in science, engi-
be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of sub-
neering, and technology.
sistence in the same manner as the expenses authorized by
(f) The Group shall perform such other related advisory
section 5703 (b) of title v, United States Code, for persons
duties as shall be assigned by the President or by the Chair-
in Government service employed intermittently.
man.
(d) The Director, or his representative, shall serve as
(g) For the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this
Chairman of the Panel.
section, each Federal agency represented on the Group shall
(e) The Panel shall perform such functions as the Chair-
furnish necessary assistance to the Group. Such assistance may
man may prescribe, and shall meet at the call of the Chairman.
include-
(1) detailing employees to the Group to perform such
FUNCTIONS OF THE PANEL
functions, consistent with the purposes of this section,
as the Chairman may assign to them, and
SEC. 502. (a) The Panel shall advise and assist the
(2) undertaking, upon request of the Chairman, such
Director in-
special studies for the Group as come within the functions
(1) identifying and defining civilian problems at the
herein assigned to the Group.
State, regional, and local levels to whose solution or ameli-
(h) For the purpose of conducting studies and making
oration the application of science, engineering, and tech-
reports as directed by the Chairman, standing subcommittees
nology may contribute;
and panels of the Group may be established.
(2) establishing priorities for addressing the problems
identified in paragraph (1) and
ABOLITION OF FEDERAL COUNCIL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(3) identifying and fostering ways to facilitate the
transfer and utilization of results of Federal research and
SEC. 402. The Federal Council for Science and Technology,
and development activities SO as to maximize their appli-
established pursuant to Executive Order 10807, issued
cation to civilian needs.
March 13, 1959, as amended by Executive Order 11381, issued
November 8, 1967, is hereby abolished.
GRANTS FOR STATE SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY
ADVISORY PROGRAMS
TITLE V-STATE AND REGIONAL SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
SEC. 503. (a) From funds authorized under section 602 of
this title, the Director of the National Science Foundation,
ESTABLISHMENT OF INTERGOVERNMENTAL SCIENCE, ENGINEERING,
after consultation with the Panel, is authorized to make
grants of not to exceed $200,000 to any State to pay a
AND TECHNOLOGY ADVISORY PANEL
part of the costs of establishing or strengthening offices of
SEC. 501. (a) There is established within the Office an
State science, engineering, and technology within the execu-
Intergovernmental Science, Engineering, and Technology
tive and legislative branches of the State government.
Advisory Panel (hereinafter referred to as the "Panel").
(b) The purpose of any such office shall be to promote the
(b) The Panel shall be composed of members as follows:
wise application of science, engineering, and technology to
(1) One member from each State, to be appointed by
meeting the needs of the State and its political subdivisions,
the Governor of that State.
by providing assistance and advice to the Governor or the
(2) The Director of the National Science Foundation
legislature of such State, as appropriate.
or his representative.
(c) No grant authorized under this section for the estab-
(3) The Director or his representative.
lishment or strengthening of an office of State science, engi-
In making appointments under this subsection, the Governor
neering, and technology may exceed $100,000.
of each State shall appoint individuals who are familiar with
(d) No grant may be authorized under this section unless
State and local needs, who would be effective in serving as a
an application is submitted at such time, in such manner, and
liasion between the State and the Federal Government, and,
containing or accompanied by such information as the Direc-
to the extent practicable, are familiar with science, engineer-
tor of the National Science Foundation shall require. Each
ing, and technology issues.
such application shall contain provisions to assure that-
(c) Each appointed member of the Panel shall, while
(1) the office for which assistance is sought under the
serving on business of the Panel, be entitled to receive com-
application will (A) be headed by an official who, by rea-
16
17
son of education and experience, is qualified to advise the
be available to carry out the provisions of title II, $1,000,000
Governor or legislature of a State, as appropriate, on
shall be available to carry out the provisions of title III, and
the application of science, engineering, and technology to
$2,000,000 shall be available to carry out the provisions of
meeting the needs of the State and its political subdivi-
title V; $1,500,000 for the period beginning July 1, 1976, and
sions, and (B) have sufficient authority, consistent with
ending September 30, 1976, of which $250,000 shall be avail-
State law, to carry out any functions assigned to that
able to carry out the provisions of title II, $250,000 shall be
office pursuant to this title; and
available to carry out the provisions of title III, and $1,000,-
(2) it is the applicant's stated intention that the State
000 shall be available to carry out the provisions of title V;
will assume the costs of any office established or strength-
and $12,000,000 for the fiscal year 1977, of which $3,000,000
ened pursuant to this title not later than two years after
shall be available to carry out the provisions of title II,
the year in which the grant is made.
$1,000,000 shall be available to carry out the provisions of
(e) The Director of the National Science Foundation shall
title III, and $8,000,000 shall be available to carry out the
approve any application which meets requirements of subsec-
provisions of title V.
tion (d) of this section, and shall not disapprove any applica-
(b) Funds appropriated pursuant to subsection (a) of this
tion without affording an opportunity for a hearing.
section shall remain available for obligation, for expenditure,
(f) (1) The Director of the National Science Foundation
or for obligation and expenditure, for such period or periods
shall pay to each State having an application approved under
as may be specified in Acts making such appropriations.
subsection (e) of this section the Federal share of the cost of
that application.
REPEALER
(2) For each fiscal year the Federal share shall be 80 per
centum.
SEC. 603. Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 of Reorganization Plan
(3) Any application submitted pursuant to this section
Numbered 2 of 1962 (76 Stat. 1253) and section 2 of Reorga-
shall not be funded unless such application is submitted to the
nization Plan Numbered 1 of 1973 (87 Stat. 1089) are
Director of the National Science Foundation prior to thirty-
repealed.
SUMMARY OF BILL
six months after the date of enactment of this Act.
GENERAL
TITLE VI-GENERAL PROVISIONS
This Act establishes a framework for the formulation of national
DEFINITIONS
policy and priorities for science and technology, including the estab-
SEC. 601. As used in this Act:
lishment of an Office of Science, Engineering, and Technology Policy
in the Executive Office of the President.
(1) The term "Office" means the Office of Science, Engi-
neering, and Technology Policy.
TITLE I
(2) The term "Director" means the Director of the Office
of Science, Engineering, and Technology Policy.
DECLARATION OF POLICY
(3) The term "Committee" means the President's Advisory
Committee on Science, Engineering. and Technology.
Title I establishes as national policy that: (a) there must be a
(4) The term "Group" means the Federal Coordinating
continuing investment in science and technology directed toward the
Group for Science, Engineering, and Technology.
priority needs of the nation; (b) the technical manpower pool is an
(5) The term "Panel" means the Intergovernmental
invaluable national resource that should be fully utilized; and (c)
Science, Engineering, and Technology Advisory Panel.
capabilities for technology assessment, planning, and policy formula-
(6) The term "Foundation" means the National Science
tion must be strengthened at both Federal and State levels. Title I also
Foundation.
sets forth fifteen priority areas for allocation of the Federal investment
(7) The term "State" means each of the several States,
in science and technology.
the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico,
TITLE II
the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Trust
Territory of the Pacific Islands.
OFFICE OF SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS
Title II establishes an Office of Science, Engineering, and Tech-
nology Policy in the Executive Office of the President, administered
SEC. 602. (a) There are authorized to be appropriated
by a Director (at Level II of the Executive Schedule), appointed by
$4,000,000 for the fiscal year 1976, of which $1,000,000 shall
S. Rept. 622 O 76 3
18
19
and with the advice and consent of the Senate. The President is
TITLE V
authorized to appoint up to four Associate Directors (at Level III of
the Executive Schedule), also with Senate confirmation.
STATE AND REGIONAL SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
The Office shall prepare and annually update a five-year forecast
of Federal investment in science and technology, including estimates
Title V establishes an Intergovernmental Science, Engineering, and
of the allocation of Federal funds among major expenditure areas:
Technology Advisory Panel to advise the Director in establishing
annually estimate a range of options for various levels of Federal
priorities for addressing civilian problems at State, regional, and
investment in science and technology, including a range of priority
local levels which science and technology can help resolve. This title
options for allocating Federal funds among major expenditure areas;
also establishes a State Science, Engineering, and Technology Pro-
and furnish the options to the Office of Management and Budget for
gram within the National Science Foundation to make grants of up
use in developing budget recommendations to the President.
to $200,000 to any State to enable it to establish or strengthen Offices
The Office shall provide the President with a continuing source of
of Science, Engineering, and Technology within the executive or leg-
policy planning, analysis, and advice with respect to major policies,
islative branches of State governments, provided that the State pro-
plans, and programs of science and technology of the Federal govern-
vides matching funding on an 80% Federal, 20% State basis.
ment.
The Director of the Office shall chair the Federal Coordinating
TITLE VI
Group for Science, Engineering, and Technology (established under
Title IV) and the Intergovernmental Science, Engineering, and Tech-
AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS
nology Advisory Panel (established under Title V) ; shall serve as a
member of the Domestic Council; and as an adviser to the National
Title VI authorizes $4,000,000 for fiscal year 1976; $1,500,000 for the
Security Council. The Director shall coordinate the work of the Office
period from July 1 through September 30, 1976; and $12,000,000 for
with the Domestic Council, NSC, CEQ, CEA, OMB, and the depart-
fiscal year 1977.
ments and agencies.
SECTION-BY-SECTION ANALYSIS
The Office shall prepare an annual Report on Science, Engineering,
and Technology which the President shall transmit to the Congress.
TITLE I-NATIONAL SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND
TECHNOLOGY POLICY AND PRIORITIES
TITLE III
FINDINGS
PRESIDENT'S ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND
TECHNOLOGY
Section 101. This section states the findings of Congress that Fed-
eral funding for science and technology is an investment in the nation's
Under Title III, the President shall appoint an Advisory Committee
future; the technical manpower pool is an invaluable national re-
of between 9 and 15 members, including the Director of the Office.
source which should be fully utilized: strong participation by State
The Committee shall conduct a comprehensive survey of Federal
and local governments is essential; diversified technical capabilities
science and technology, and submit a report thereon to the President
in government, industry, and the universities are essential; and a sys-
within one year. After receipt of the report, the Committee shall
tematic approach is needed, including long-range planning, as well as
expire unless the President deems it advantageous to continue the
intermediate and short-range program development.
Committee as an ongoing Advisory Committee.
DECLARATION OF POLICIES AND PRIORITIES
TITLE IV
Section 102. This section declares it to be national policy that there
FEDERAL COORDINATION GROUP FOR SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND
be a continuing investment in science and technology adequate to
TECHNOLOGY
national needs; that the Federal Government must promote the utili-
zation in the national interest of the Nation's human resources in
Title IV redesignates the Federal Council for Science and Tech-
science, engineering, and technology; capabilities for technology
nology as the Federal Coordinating Committee for Science, Engineer-
ing, and Technology, and gives it the statutory authority to coordinate
assessment, planning, and policy formulation must be strengthened
of both Federal and State levels; the Federal investment in science
Federal plans and programs in science and technology. The Director
and technology must be addressed to the priority needs of the Nation,
of the Office is designated as Chairman of this Group.
including (a) national strength in research and education, (b) dis-
semination of technical knowledge, (c) utilizing science and technol-
21
20
ogy in support of national goals, (d) promoting conservation and effi-
funds among major expenditure areas; and furnish the options to
cient utilization of natural and human resources, (e) protecting the
the Office of Management and Budget for use in developing budget
recommendations to the President.
oceans and coastal zones, (f) strengthening the economy and promot-
ing full employment, (g) assuring adequate supplies of food, mate-
rials, and energy, (h) strengthening national security, (i) improving
POLICY PLANNING, ANALYSIS, AND ADVICE
the quality of health care, (j) improving transportation and commu-
Section 205. This section states that the Office shall serve as a source
nication services, (k) increasing educational opportunities, (1) assur-
of scientific, engineering, and technological analysis and judgment
ing effective public services, (m) developing high-qualty, low-cost
for the President with respect to major policies, plans, and programs
housing, (n) eliminating air and water pollution and unhealthful
of the Federal Government.
drugs and food additives, and (o) enhancing environmental quality.
ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS OF THE DIRECTOR
DECLARATION OF PURPOSE
Section 206. This section states that the Director shall serve as
Section 103. This section declares the purpose of this Act to:
Chairman of the Federal Coordinating Group for Science, Engineer-
(1) establish an Office of Science, Engineering, and Technology
ing, and Technology, as a member of the Domestic Council, as a
Policy in the Executive Office of the President; (2) establish a State
member of the Intergovernmental Science, Engineering, and Tech-
and Regional Science, Engineering, and Technology Program; (3)
nology Advisory Panel, and as a Statutory Adviser to the National
establish an Interagency Federal Coordinating Group on Science,
Security Council in such matters concerning science, engineering, and
Engineering, and Technology; and (4) require the President to
technology as relate to national security; and that the Director is
submit an annual Science, Engineering, and Technology Report to
authorized to appoint and compensate personnel and enter into con-
Congress.
tracts and other arrangements for studies, analyses, and other services.
TITLE II-OFFICE OF SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND
COORDINATION WITH OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
TECHNOLOGY POLICY
Section 207. This section states that the Director shall coordinate
ESTABLISHMENT
with the Domestic Council, the National Security Council, the Coun-
cil on Environmental Quality, the Council of Economic Advisers,
Section 201. This section establishes an Office of Science, Engineer-
the Office of Management and Budget, and the Federal departments
ing, and Technology Policy in the Executive Office of the President.
and agencies; utilize consultants and advisory panels and consult with
individuals and groups throughout the society as he deems advisable;
DIRECTOR
hold hearings; utilize with their consent the services of public and
private agencies, organizations, and individuals, and transfer funds
Section 202. This section states that the Office shall be adminis-
to other Federal agencies; that each agency of the executive branch
tered by a Director, appointed by President with the advice and
is authorized to furnish the Director information necessary to carry
consent of the Senate and compensated at the rate provided for level
out his functions; and that the Administrator of the National Aero-
II of the Executive Schedule.
nautics and Space Administration is authorized to assist the Director
with respect to system analyses of alternative applications of science
ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS
and technology.
Section 203. This section authorizes the President to appoint with
the advice and consent of the Senate, up to four Associate Directors,
SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY REPORT
compensated at a rate not to exceed level III of the Executive
Section 208. This section states that the President shall transmit an
Schedule.
annual Science. Engineering, and Technology Report to the Congress,
FEDERAL INVESTMENT AND PRIORITIES
individuals and groups throughout the society as he deems advisable;
Section 204. This section states that the Office shall prepare and
which shall be prepared by the Office, with appropriate assistance
annually update a five-year forecast of Federal investment in science,
from other agencies, consultants, and contractors. The report shall
and technology, including estimates of the allocation of Federal
include the Office's discussion of options on Federal investments and
funds among major expenditure areas; annually estimate a range of
priorities in science and technology, and shall deal. to the extent prac-
options for various levels of Federal investment in science and tech-
ticable and within the limitations of available knowledge and re-
nology, including a range of priority options for allocating Federal
sources, with a range of national policy issues involving science and
technology.
22
23
TITLE IHI-PRESIDENT'S ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON
tions are purely advisory in nature and involve no exercise of author-
SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY
ity over the participating agencies, whose participation is governed
by their applicable statutes.
ESTABLISHMENT
ABOLITION OF FEDERAL COUNCIL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Section 301. This section authorizes the President to establish a
President's Advisory Committee on Science, Engineering, and Tech-
Section 402. This section abolishes the Federal Council for Science
nology.
and Technology, which had been established by Executive Order in
1959.
MEMBERSHIP
Section 302. This section states that the Committee shall consist of
TITLE V-STATE AND REGIONAL SCIENCE AND
the Director and between eight and fourteen other members appointed
TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
by the President; that the President shall appoint a Chairman and
Vice Chairman; and that the members are entitled to be reimbursed
ESTABLISHMENT OF INTERGOVERNMENTAL SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND
for their official expenses and to receive compensation for their serv-
TECHNOLOGY ADVISORY PANEL
ices at a rate not to exceed the daily rate prescribed for GS-18 of the
General Schedule.
Section 501. This section establishes within the Office an Intergov-
ernmental Science, Engineering, and Technology Advisory Panel,
FEDERAL SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY SURVEY
composed of the Director or his representative, the Director of the
National Science Foundation or his representative, and one member
Section 303. This section states that the Committee shall survey,
from each State, to be appointed by the Governor of that State; pro-
examine, and analyze the overall context of the Federal science, engi-
vides for reimbursement for official expenses incurred by Panel mem-
neering, and technology effort including missions, goals, personnel,
bers and for their compensation at a rate not to exceed the daily rate
funding, organization, facilities, and activities in general; that the
for GS-18 of the General Schedule; states that the Director or his
Committee shall submit a report of its findings, conclusions, and rec-
representative shall serve as Chairman of the Panel; and states that
ommendations to the President within one year of the appointment of
the Panel shall meet at the call of the Chairman.
a majority of its members; and that, after appropriate review, the
President shall transmit the report to Congress, together with any
FUNCTIONS OF THE PANEL
recommendations he may wish to make concerning its findings.
Section 502. This section states that the Panel shall advise and assist
CONTINUATION OF COMMITTEE
the Director in identifying and defining civilian problems at the State,
regional, and local levels susceptible to scientific and technical solu-
Section 304. This section states that the Committee will cease to exist
tion or amelioration; in establishing priorities for addressing such
ninety days after transmission of the report, unless the President
problems; and in fostering the utilization of the results of Federal
makes a determination that it is advantageous for the Committee to
research and development activities SO as to maximize their application
continue in being, in which case the Committee shall exercise such
to civilian needs.
functions as are prescribed by the President, with its members serving
at the pleasure of the President.
GRANTS FOR STATE SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY ADVISORY
PROGRAMS
STAFF AND CONSULTANT SUPPORT
Section 503. This section states that the National Science Founda-
Section 305. This section provides for appropriate staff and con-
tion is authorized to make grants to any State to pay a part of the costs
sultant support to the Committee.
of establishing or strengthening offices of State science, engineering,
and technology within the executive and legislative branches of the
TITLE IV-FEDERAL COORDINATING GROUP FOR
State government; that the purpose of any such office shall be to pro-
SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY
mote the wise application of science and technology to the needs of the
State; that no grant to a State's legislature or executive branch may ex-
ESTABLISHMENT AND FUNCTIONS
ceed $100,000; that the total amount granted to any State may not ex-
ceed $200,000; that the Federal share of the cost of the office shall be
Section 401. This section establishes the Federal Coordinating
80% of the total annual cost; that the State will assume the cost of
Group for Science, Engineering, and Technology, to be chaired by the
any such office not later than two years after award of the grant; that
Director, and to exercise the same functions as those heretofore exer-
the Director of the National Science Foundation shall approve any
cised by the Federal Council for Science and Technology. These func-
grant application which meets the requirements of this Act and such
regulations as he may establish.
24
25
TITLE VI-GENERAL PROVISIONS
tion aimed at meeting needs in this area. On August 14, 1970, he
introduced S. 4241, the Conversion Research and Education Act.
DEFINITIONS
Although it was not possible to hold hearings on the bill before the
end of the Ninety-first Congress, the bill was subjected to close
Section 601. This section defines terms used in this Act.
scrutiny by leading authorities in this field throughout the Nation.
After careful consideration of their comments and suggestions, the
AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS
bill was revised and re-introduced by Senator Kennedy in the Ninety-
Section 602. This section authorizes appropriations to carry out the
second Congress on January 25, 1971, as S. 32, the Conversion, Re-
provisions of this Act of $4,000,000 for fiscal year 1976 $1,500,000 for
search, Education, and Assistance Act. The bill was referred to the
Committee on Labor and Public Welfare and assigned to the Subcom-
the period from July 1, 1976 through September 30, 1976; and $12,-
mittee on the National Science Foundation.
000,000 for fiscal year 1977.
The bill was circulated among leading authorities throughout the
REPEALER
Nation who were expert in various of its aspects, and their comments
Section 603. This section repeals sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 of Reorganiza-
and suggestions were carefully studied by the Subcommittee. At the
tion Plan Numbered 2 of 1962 and section 2 of Reorganization Plan
same time a companion bill to S. 32 had been introduced in the House
Numbered 1 of 1973.
of Representatives as H.R. 34, by Congressmen John W. Davis and
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY
Robert N. Giaimo and one hundred and eleven cosponsors in January
1971. H.R. 34 was virtually identical to S. 32. Consequently the eight
The Committee on Labor and Public Welfare began serious con-
days of comprehensive hearings which the House Committee on Sci-
sideration of national policies and priorities for science and technology
ence and Astronautics held on H.R. 34 on June 22, 23, 24. July 13, 14,
in the course of committee examination of the problems of postwar eco-
15, and August 5 and 6, 1971 proved extremely helpful in the National
nomic conversion in the Ninety-first Congress. On December 1 and 2,
Science Foundation Subcommittee's consideration of S. 32.
1969, the Committee held hearings on Postwar Economic Conversion.
Based on the extensive comments and suggestions which were
The Committee heard testimony from Professor Warren L. Smith, De-
received over these months, from various experts and organizations
partment of Economics, University of Michigan and former member of
throughout the country and through the House hearings, Senator
the Council of Economic Advisers; Dr. Seymour Melman, economist
Kennedy filed Amendment 469 to S. 32 on October 13, 1971. This
and professor of industrial engineering at Columbia University; the
amendment was designed to take account of many of the suggestions
late Walter P. Reuther, President of the United Auto Workers; Dr.
which the Subcommittee had received.
Wilfred Lewis, Jr. of the National Planning Association; the Honor-
On October 26 and 27, 1971, the Subcommittee on the National Sci-
able Archibald S. Alexander, former Assistant Director for Economics
ence Foundation held hearings on S. 32, including consideration of
of the U.S. Arms Control and Disarmament Agency; and Nathanial
Amendment 469. (The hearings also considered S. 1261, the Economic
Goldfinger, Director of Research, AFL-CIO.
Conversion Loan Authorization Act, which is still under study by the
Additional hearings on Postwar Economic Conversion were held
Subcommittee on the National Science Foundation.) Testimony was
before the Committee in Lexington, Massachusetts on March 23, 1970,
heard from the Administration spokesman, Dr. William D. McElroy,
and in Framingham, Massachusetts on April 3, 1970. At those hearings
Director of the National Science Foundation; Paul Robbins, Execu-
the Committee heard testimony from General James Gavin, Chairman
tive Director of the National Society of Professional Engineers; Jack
of the Board, Arthur D. Little, Inc.; Dr. George Gols of Arthur D.
Golodner, Executive Secretary of the Council of AFL-CIO Unions
Little; Carroll Sheehan, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Depart-
for Scientific, Professional, and Cultural Employees; Sanford V.
ment of Commerce and Development; Bernard O'Keefe, President of
Lenz, Chairman, Professional, Technical, and Salaried Conference
E.G. & G. Corporation; D. Justin McCarthy, President of Framing-
Board, IUE, AFL-CIO; Mrs. Betty Vetter, Executive Director, Sci-
ham State College; Joseph Hyman, President of Hycor Corporation;
entific Manpower Commission; Professor Paul H. Thompson, Gradu-
Dr. Arthur S. Obermayer, President of Moleculon Corporation; Dr.
ate School of Business Administration, Harvard University; and four
Duncan MacDonald, business consultant; and William Alexander,
unemployed engineers-Robert Fraser from Lincoln, Massachusetts,
President of the Research, Development, and Technical Employees
S. Robert Salow from Newton, Massachusetts, Charles Laible from
Association, MIT Laboratories.
Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and Nathan N. Budish from Seattle, Wash-
The testimony and statements for the record submitted at these
ington.
hearings provided the Committee with a comprehensive background
In addition to the testimony received at the hearings, the hearings
on the problems of economic conversion and a realization that national
record also included statements on the legislation from the Comptroller
legislation was required to enable the country to build a strong base
General and the Administration and from twenty-seven organizations
of civilian science and technology.
and individuals with special competence in this area. Since the hear-
As Chairman of the Special Subcommittee on the National Science
ings record was published, scores of other statements had been received
Foundation, Senator Edward M. Kennedy began developing legisla-
from interested organizations and individuals with respect to S.32.
26
27
Based on all of the information and the views which were received,
of a substitute. Identical action was taken by the Aeronautical and
the bill was further revised and considered by the Special Subcom-
Space Sciences Committee at its Executive Session held September 18,
mitte on the National Science Foundation in an Executive Meeting
1974. On September 18, 1974, S. 2495 was referred to the Committee
on April 5, 1972. At that meeting, upon the suggestion of Senator
on Labor and Public Welfare for further consideration.
Dominick, the Subcommittee agreed to submit the bill (in its revised
On October 8, 1974 the Special Subcommittee on the National Sci-
form) to the Executive Agencies and the General Accounting Office
ence Foundation held a hearing on S. 32, S. 1686 and S. 2495. Testi-
for further comment. Letters were received from sixteen agencies and
mony was heard from the Administration spokesman, Dr. Guyford H.
the GAO, and the specific comments were taken into careful account
Stever, Director of the National Science Foundation and Science
by the Subcommittee.
Adviser; Dr. Edward Wenk, Jr., Chairman of the Committee on
Based on those comments, the bill was further revised and considered
Public Engineering Policy of the National Academy of Engineering;
again by the Subcommittee in Executive Meeting on May 30, 1972.
and Dr. Thomas G. Fox, Chairman of the Governor's Science Ad-
At that meeting, the Subcommittee, without opposition, favorably
visory Committee, State of Pennsylvania.
reported the bill to the full Committee with an amendment in the
Based on the testimony which was presented at the hearing, the three
nature of a substitute and with a title amendment.
bills were further revised and considered by the Subcommittee in an
The bill was considered by the full Committee on Labor and Public
Executive Meeting on October 8, 1974. At that meeting, the Subcom-
Welfare in Executive Meetings on June 21 and June 28, 1972. At the
mittee unanimously favorably reported S. 32, to the full Committee
June 28 meeting, the Committee on Labor and Public Welfare ordered
with an amendment in the nature of a substitute and with a title amend-
the bill, with a modified amendment in the nature of a substitute and
ment. All seven members of the Subcommittee were recorded as voting
with a title amendment, reported favorably to the Senate. On the roll
to report the bill to the full Committee.
call vote to report, all seventeen members of the Committee were
The bill was considered by the full Committee on Labor and Public
recorded as voting to report the bill favorably.
Welfare on October 8, 1974. The Committee ordered the bill, with
On August 17, 1972, the bill was considered by the Senate, and
an amendment in the nature of a substitute and with a title amend-
passed by a vote of 70 to 8. It was then sent to the House of Repre-
ment, reported favorably to the Senate. All sixteen members of the
sentatives where it was referred to the Committee on Science and
Committee were recorded as voting to report the bill favorably.
Astronautics. No action was taken by the House prior to the adjourn-
The Senate passed the bill by unanimous voice vote on October 11,
ment of the 92d Congress.
1974. It was then sent to the House of Representatives where it was
On January 4, 1973, Senator Kennedy reintroduced S. 32. On
referred to the Committee on Science and Astronautics. No action was
May 2, 1973, Senator Dominick introduced S. 1686, the Civilian
taken by the House prior to the adjournment of the 93rd Congress.
Science and Technology Policy Act of 1973. Both bills were referred
On January 15, 1975, Senator Kennedy reintroduced S. 32 (in a
to the Senate Committee on Labor and Public Welfare.
form identical to the bill that had passed the Senate in October, 1974)
S. 2495 was introduced on September 27, 1973 by Senator Magnuson,
with the cosponsorship of Senators Moss and Tunney and 29 other
Senator Moss, and Senator Tunney. The bill was referred jointly to the
Senators. This bill was referred jointly to the Committees on Labor
Committee on Commerce and the Committee on Aeronautical and
and Public Welfare, Commerce, and Aeronautical and Space Sciences.
Space Sciences. On September 28, 1973 unanimous consent was given
A significant break occurred on May 22, 1975, when President Gerald
that when the two Committees report the bill, it would be re-referred
R. Ford met with Vice President Nelson A. Rockefeller, Senators Moss,
to the Committee on Labor and Public Welfare.
Goldwater, Beall, and Laxalt, and Congressmen Teague, Mosher,
On January 18, 1974 a working draft of a revised version of S. 2495
Thornton, Conlan, and Symington, to announce his approval of a pro-
was prepared by the Commerce and Aeronautical and Space Sciences
posal prepared by the Vice President to re-establish the Science and
Committees and distributed for comments.
Technology Office in the White House, and to do so by legislation. The
Joint hearings on S. 2495 and the working draft were held by the
President decided in favor of a single director with a small staff, rather
Commerce and Aeronautical and Space Sciences Committees on
than a council. This proposal was introduced in the Senate on June 20,
March 11 and March 21, 1974.
1975, as S. 1987, by Senator Moss (for himself and Senator Gold-
Subsequent to those hearings, the bill underwent further revisions,
water) (by request) and was also referred jointly to the Committees
and Amendment No. 1537 to S. 2495 was introduced by Senators Mag-
on Aeronautical and Space Sciences, Commerce, and Labor and Pub-
nuson, Moss, and Tunney on June 27, 1974. The Commerce and Aero-
lic Welfare. The provisions of S. 1987 were subsequently amended and
nautical and Space Sciences Committee held a joint hearing on
incorporated in Titles II and VI of S. 32.
Amendment No. 1537 to S. 2495 on July 11, 1974. Witnesses at the
In the meantime, on June 6, 1975, Senator Kennedy presided at an
July 11 hearing included four former Presidential Science Advisers:
historic White House Science Advisory Conference. At this Confer-
Dr. Edward E. David, Jr., Dr. Lee A. DuBridge, Dr. Donald F.
ence in the Dirksen Senate Office Building, the Vice President met
Horning, and Dr. George B. Kistiakowsky.
with Senator Kennedy, as host, and Senators Moss, Tunney, Javits,
The Commerce Committee met in Executive Session on July 31,
Goldwater, Schweiker, Mathias, Beall, Stafford, Domenici, Laxalt, and
1974 and ordered S. 2495 reported, with an amendment in the nature
Garn. This was the first time in modern American history that a Vice
28
29
President of the United States sat down with members of the United
S. 32, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute be reported to
States Senate, in full public view, to participate in a free, informed, bi-
the full Committee on Labor and Public Welfare. On January 28, 1976,
partisan discussion of national policy needs. The Conference was not a
the Committee on Labor and Public Welfare met in executive session
hearing and did not consider specific legislative proposals, but pro-
and unanimously voted favorably to report S. 32, with an amendment
vided an opportunity for the Vice President and the Senators to dis-
in the nature of a substitute, to the Senate. On January 29, 1976, the
cuss the national issues involved in the re-establishment of a White
Committee on Commerce met in executive session and without objec-
House Science Advisory Office. The Conference proved extremely use-
tion, voted favorably to report S. 32, with an amendment in the nature
ful in the subsequent development of the Senate legislation.
of a substitute, to the Senate. The amendment in the nature of a sub-
On October 28, November 4, and November 12, 1975, joint hearings
stitute to S. 32 adopted by the Committee on Labor and Public Wel-
on S. 32 were held before the Special Subcommittee on the National
fare, which in turn was identical to the one adopted by the Committee
Science Foundation of the Committee on Labor and Public Welfare;
on Aeronautical and Space Sciences.
the Special Subcommittee on Science, Technology, and Commerce of
the Committee on Commerce; and the Committee on Aeronautical and
EXPLANATION OF NEED
Space Sciences. Senator Kennedy chaired the hearing on October 28th;
Senator Tunney, the hearing on November 4th; and Senator Moss, the
Science and technology have become central to Western civilization.
hearing on November 12th. During the period after the President's
Throughout history, science and technology have had occasional, but
announcement of May 22, 1976, the House Committee on Science and
significant impacts on military capabilities and economic development.
Technology held extensive hearings on several science and technology
However, only recently have we seen the importance of science and
policy bills, culminating in the passage of H.R. 10230 by the House
technology in dealing with civilian needs. Our military security de-
on November 6, 1975. This bill was also referred jointly to the Com-
pends on scientific research and development. Our economic develop-
mittee on Aeronautical and Space Sciences, Commerce, and Labor
ment and productivity, along with our international competitive posi-
and Public Welfare. Provisions of H.R. 10230 were particularly ex-
tion, depend on increasing technical innovation to provide new products
amined in the aforementioned hearing chaired by Senator Moss on
and services which meet changing needs. And the quality of life in our
November 12, 1975.
society-the adequacy of health care, the preservation of the environ-
Testimony was provided by Dr. Philip Handler, President of the
ment, the adequacy of educational programs, the provision of food,
National Academy of Sciences; Dr. Emanuel R. Piore, Retired Vice
housing, transportation and communication services, and the very
President and Chief Scientist, IBM Corporation; Dr. Eugene B.
sources of energy which make other services possible-all are inter-
Skolnikoff, Director of the Center for International Studies and Pro-
woven with, and depend in part on, the efficacy of scientific and tech-
fessor of Political Science at Massachusetts Institute of Technology;
nical progress.
Dr. James R. Killian, Jr., author of the National Academy of Sciences
Since World War II the principal focus of the Nation's scientific
"Report on Science and Technology in Presidential Policymaking";
programs has been on defense, and since Sputnik, on space. In these
Dr. Roger Revelle, Chairman of the Board, American Association for
activities, the Federal Government has been the major supporter of
the Advancement of Science; Dr. Richard Scribner, Head of the Office
research and development. The achievements of the Nation's scientists
of Special Programs of the American Association for the Advancement
and engineers in these areas have been sweeping in scope, and stagger-
of Science; Dr. Thomas G. Fox, Science Adviser to the Governor of
ing in their impact. The development of an overwhelming arsenal of
Pennsylvania; Dr. H. Guyford Stever, Director of the National Sci-
nuclear weapons, ballistic missiles, travel to the Moon and probes to
ence Foundation and Science Adviser to the President; and Mr.
other planets are now commonplace facts to our children.
Arthur P. Stern, President of the Institute of Electrical and Elec-
The application of science and technology to national security needs
tronic Engineers.
and space objectives have had some important spin-off effect on the
Following the Conference with the Vice President and the hearings
civilian area of our economy and society. Computers, the vast expan-
before the Senate Committees, the staffs of the three Committees made
sion in electronics, and passenger jet aircraft are all derived from
proposed revisions to S. 32. In developing these revisions, extensive
military and civilian space R. & D. programs. But many areas of the
discussions were held with representatives of the scientific and tech-
civilian sector have not yet been significantly affected by scientific
nical community and with responsible staff members of the Executive
research. Textile, shoe, and furniture manufacturing are three ex-
Office of the President, the National Science Foundation, and the House
amples of civilian industries which are still dependent on traditional
Committee on Science and Technology. A final version was prepared
methods and which have not reaped the benefits which scientific ad-
on January 19, 1976, for the consideration of the Committees.
vance can provide.
On January 21, 1976, the Committee on Aeronautical and Space Sci-
And in the public service sector of the economy, the extent to which
ences met in executive session and, without objection, ordered S. 32,
modern technology has been applied is even less. Trash in our city
with an amendment in the nature of a substitute, favorably reported
streets is still ocllected in the same inefficient manner, and still dis-
to the Senate.
posed of in vast rubbish heaps that mar our countryside and pollute
On January 27, 1976, the Special Subcommittee of the National Sci-
our air. Transportation in our metropolitan areas becomes more
ence Foundation met in executive session and voted unanimously that
snarled and inconvenient all the time. And adequate health care for
31
30
Vice President ROCKEFELLER. I would have to say, Senator,
all our citizens continues to become more costly, even when it is
I think that is the key to it. I think it is the heart, what you
available.
have gone right to. It is the conceptual approach to the role
In the civilian sector of our economy and in public services, the vast
of science and technology in our whole society of life, its
promise of science and technolgy has not been realized. A principal
future, and our role in the world.
reason for this is that the Nation has lacked sound national policies
I think that is the heart of it. I think it has got to go
and priorities for science and technology.
further, in a sense. It has to go back-in the report, he has to
This has been especially true since 1973 when Reorganization Plan
go back and look at what the high schools are doing, the
Number 1 abolished the White House Office of Science and Tech-
number of students coming into the field, what colleges are
nology. Since that time the President has been without the top-level
doing, and what has been done by government and by the
scientific assistance he needs to deal with the complex technical issues
private sector in these fields, SO that, to me, I share completely
of our time.
that thought that this would be basic.
Science for most of our citizens is a mysterious code that can only
And this report prepared by Dr. Hans Mark is very much
be deciphered by specialists. The policy issues faced by the President
in that direction.
involve too many complex technological components for him not to
These things just do not happen. We have to plan and, as
have immediate access to the very best scientific advice our Nation
you say, we have to plan ahead of time, if you are going to get
has to offer.
there. And we are beginning to fall behind in this whole field.
No single scientist can provide such advice. But a first-rate science
Senator JAVITS. That is most alarming.
policy office with a capable staff can rapidly tap the top-flight technical
Senator KENNEDY. One of the things that always strikes us
talent throughout our society to provide the President with the best
in the National Science Foundation Subcommittee is the fact
advice possible. This office can also provide a mechanism to anticipate
that, as you well know, military R. & D. is not considered
future problems and needs, help coordinate the various Federal re-
within the scope of the Director of the National Science Foun-
search and development activities, and interact with the States con-
dation, who has been serving as the President's science adviser.
cerning their needs related to science and technology.
And I think your comments have been very reassuring in indi-
A White House Science Adivser, (a) with effective relationships
cating that that military research and development will cer-
with the President, within the Executive Office, and with the various
tainly be within the scope of the science adviser as you see
agencies, (b) will access to the technical community, and (c) with
that function.
adequate resources to do the job, will assure that the President and the
One of the things which many of us have been interested in
Nation will be in a much better position to deal with complex issues
is the very large amount of research that is being done for de-
involving science and technology.
fense and space-related programs.
CONFERENCE WITH THE VICE PRESIDENT
I do think we have seen, in terms of our competitive pro-
sition in the world, that many of our friends, allies, and com-
The Conference with the Vice President on June 6, 1975, provided
petitors in the free world, are devoting a good deal more re-
valuable perspective in the development of the legislation. The follow-
sources to civilian science and technology, than we are.
ing excerpt from that conference provides useful background in under-
Vice President ROCKEFELLER. That is right.
standing the provisions of the bill as reported by the three Committees
Senator KENNEDY. And we, as a country and as a society,
(pages 30-31, "Proceedings of the White House Science Advisory
ought to recognize that-which I am not sure that we do at the
Conference, 1975, Special Subcommittee on the National Science
present time-and begin to move the country more in those di-
Foundation of the Committee on Labor and Public Welfare, July,
rections.
1975) :
Vice President ROCKEFELLR. May I just say on that, that
again I agree.
Senator KENNEDY. If I can carry on a little bit further
WITNESSES TESTIMONY
based on what Senator Javits was talking about. Mr. Vice
President, do you expect in this annual report that one of the
All of the witnesses who appeared in the hearings strongly sup-
responsibilities of the advisory group would be to indicate
ported the re-establishment in the White House of a Science and Tech-
what should be the national investment in the areas of science
nology Advisory Office. The following excerpts from the testimony
and research, whether we ought to establish some goals in
help clarify the need for, and intent of, various provisions in the
those areas, and perhaps how we ought to be allocating the
bill as reported:
resources within those goals, SO that we will be looking ahead
to the allocations of resources in the area of science and tech-
Dr. Philip Handler (President of the National Academy of
nology over the period of, say 5 years?
Sciences) :
Is this something you think should be included or would
A congressional statement of policy (for science and tech-
be useful in providing both the country and the Congress,
nology) could provide a perspective and sense of purpose
with some guideposts as we consider this whole area?
32
33
and direction to development of Federal programs and de-
tailed policies. It would guide the many individual decisions
and well presented documents on the future of various areas
that, collectively, determine how wisely and well we are able
of science and technology in our society. Congress files them.
to realize the potential of science and technology in serving
To date I have not observed any hearings in Congress on these
the public good.
reports.
Congress ought to be aware when they vote the authoriza-
Dr. Emanuel R. Piore (Retired Vice President and Chief Scientist,
tion and the appropriation what are the critical problems in
IBM Corporation)
science and technology covered in the executive department
Another function that should be stressed in a very im-
submissions. The other type of report is in its own right very
portant manner, is that the group or Science Adviser must
important, necessary in that it is vital to understand what the
take an active role in assuring the country the health of scien-
future holds for us.
tific and technical institutions, the Government labs, the uni-
Therefore, I see the Council having two very fundamental
versities, the nonprofit labs, the scientific and technologic
functions. One is to look to the future. The other is to get
health of our industry. This is not stressed. And I will return
word to Congress what budgetary items mean, as far as its
to the health of our laboratories in a moment.
impact on our daily life. Congress and its staff are well
Second, I think it is important that the legislation state
rounded, and thoroughly understanding of all the social
whether they have a Council or single person, that "he" will
issues and implications of various monetary and legislative
be a member of the National Security Council, "he" will be a
action. We are trying to get a similar sensitivity in science
member of the Domestic Council, and not say "he" will coordi-
and technology. That is why I would look to the annual report
nate or develop appropriate working relations. It is very
to address itself to Congress via the President, really pointing
important that a technical person sit when policy is debated,
out what that budget means to the health of science, to the
understand whether the policy needs technological backing,
health of technology, to our foreign policy, and all these
whether it is possible to get the technological answer in time
other items that science and technology is involved in.
to serve the national purpose. There are occasions where action
Dr. Eugene B. Skolnikoff (Director of the Center for International
is required based on inadequate knowledge.
Studies and professor of Political Science at Massachusetts Institute
Developing appropriate working relationships will not
of Technology) :
service the purpose. The Security Council may assign the
wrong problem or irrelevant problem to the policy, and the
Given the fact that this legislation is designed to provide
same is true of the Domestic Council.
for the long term, I wonder if there should not be a ref-
The Office of Science Adviser to the President was most
erence to the possibility of creating once again a standing
effective when there was a complete open door to Killian,
advisory committee for science and technology. This may be
Kistiakowsky, Wiesner to the Security Council. We would
more important for an office headed by a single director than
for a council of advisers.
never have been able to come up with the policy with regard
to arms limitation without that open door. And, thus, I would
There are several parts to this international role.
hope that the language would be changed where it would be
One is the integral relation of science and technology to many
mandatory for the President to put these people on the Coun-
issues of foreign policy, or to domestic policy with interna-
cils and not just hope that the adviser will have an open door.
tional implications-it is a cliche to assert that it is increas-
It becomes a little more difficult to define the relation be-
ingly difficult to separate foreign from domestic affairs; but
tween the Science and Technology Council and the Bureau of
it is also true-a good share of the advisory relationship with
Management and Budget. It is the Presidential budget and
the President should and hopefully will be concerned with
it is not the budget of the Council. And here the annual re-
international issues in which science and technology play an
port can play a very important role. The drafts of the annual
important, sometimes crucial, role.
report will be seen by the Bureau of the Budget. Debate can
A second aspect of the international role is policy for inter-
take place. Disagreements resolved. This also will provide the
national cooperation in science and technology, which is in
best possible coupling with the other agencies. If they know
fact referred to in the House bill. It is an important issue
annually that their R. & D. budget will be discussed by the
area, but one that to my mind is simply not as significant as
Council or the Adviser and coupled directly to the Bureau of
are the broader international policy questions.
the Budget, there will be no problem of having coordination.
Third is an aspect often neglected that I believe should be
I had partial coordinating responsibility for research in the
an important concern of a White House science office. I refer
Navy when I was younger. Once the budget is at stake, coordi-
to the fact that a substantial share of Federal R. & D. expendi-
nation becomes almost automatic.
tures are motivated in large measure by international consid-
This is also related to the annual report which should deal
erations (defense, space, some of atomic energy and others).
with the current situation. I have observed very important
And a good share of the remainder will affect our interna-
34
35
tional relations and foreign policy (e.g., energy, agriculture,
I share that kind of comment; and I think we have a press-
geophysics) when the R. & D. comes to fruition. And, hardest
ing opportunity to deal with this aspect of the Government's
of all to define, many R. & D. projects are not being done at
policies as related to science and technology.
all that could affect the world and our policies favorably.
Next, the whole domain of national security, and I in-
Dr. James R. Killian, Jr. (author of the National Academy of
clude in national security arms limitation, can benefit from
Sciences "Report on Science and Technology in Presidential Policy-
objective scientific advice formulated at the level of the Presi-
making")
dency and outside of the Department of Defense and the
:
Department of State.
I have suggested the importance of the advisory mecha-
I am deeply disturbed by the amount of complacency in
nism's being closely related to other agencies in the Executive
our country today in regard to the hazards involved in the
Office of the President. It would be my judgment that the
arms race and in the proliferation of nuclear weapons. Scien-
head of this advisory mechanism should be a member of the
tists and engineers have an essential role to play in the formu-
Domestic Council and he should be, if not a member of the
lation of policies with respect to the control of nuclear weap-
National Security Council, closely related to its work.
ons. I find deeply disturbing recent suggestions that we might
I found in a number of experiences when I was Science
find it desirable to use nuclear tactical weapons and that
Adviser to the President, being present at a meeting of the
a nuclear exchange could in any way be handled in an ac-
National Security Council enabled me at that time to point
ceptable way.
out to the President certain policy questions that were under
More stress, particularly in dealing with a relationship
consideration where there was a component involving science
with the National Security Council, would be useful because
and technology that would not be normally recognized. I
I think if I were to have a general criticism of the House
found that to be, and I think the President found that to be
bill, it would be that it is somewhat bland with respect to
a important way in which the Science Adviser could operate.
the relationship of the proposed science adviser and his
The advisory mechanism, working with the National Secu-
associates with the Domestic Council and with the National
rity Council and the Department of State, should also be able
Security Council.
to contribute to those areas of foreign policy strongly affected
And I think it is particularly important that the bill make
by scientific and technological considerations. And finally,
clear that Congress expects a working relationship between
the advisory mechanism should cooperate closely with the
those agencies as well as the OMB, or else this advisory
Office of Management and Budget on significant budget and
mechanism can become isolated and is futile.
management issues involving science and technology.
So that is a very important point.
I do also feel that there should be an annual report
We have had periods recently where I think this relation-
of a very special kind prepared by the mechanism created in
ship with the National Security Council has become inopera-
the White House. I know that it is difficult to contemplate any
tive and ineffective in terms of the science advisory arrange-
kind of comprehensive report on the state of science in the
ment that then existed.
country. That is not what I am talking about. And that is not
what the NAS Committee recommended.
Dr. Roger Revelle (Chairman of the Board, American Association
Rather, it was urging that there be an opportunity for
for the Advancement of Science)
this Science Adviser in the White House annually to submit
In the "Statement of Findings and Declaration of Policy,"
to the President or to the Congress a statement of what he
of S. 32, Federal funding for science and technology is re-
thinks are some of the acute and current problems that they
ferred to as an investment in the future which must be a
should be aware of and to give attention to. And what are
"continuing investment" because it is "indispensable to
some of the budgetary problems that we face and problems
sustained national progress."
of technology assessment.
The same idea is expressed differently in that "the man-
I think, for example, of the importance of a reordering
power pool of scientists and engineers constitutes an invalu-
of priorities which will enable our Government to generate
able national resource which should be utilized to the maxi-
and encourage new technologies which can contribute to the
mum extent possible at all times."
strength of our economy. Prof. Robert Gilpin of Princeton,
This view of Federal funding for science and technology
an economist, in his report for the use of the Joint Economic
as an investment instead of simply a component of current
Committee of the Congress, has presented an eloquent argu-
operating expenditures recognizes both the necessity of main-
ment for rejuvenating our technological vitality through
taining as much stability as possible in our national research
thoughtful changes in the Nation's priorities in research and
effort and the hard truth that the benefits of research, though
development funding. He has argued persuasively that prior-
very great, will almost never be short-term ones.
ities have been "too much set by the cold war and a drive for
national prestige."
36
37
I do not want to imply that the budget for research and
international matters, because all these areas are permeated
development should be sacred and unchanged from year to
today by science and technology considerations-or they
year.
should be, if they are not-and science and technology are
Much short-term development work can be postponed or
either there in the foreground, or certainly should be there
put on the shelf when warranted by economic conditions. But
in the background, of almost any important policy decision.
long-term research and education which produce the intel-
Next, in comparing S. 32 with H.R. 10230, we found
lectual capital for the future are investments that should be
numerous diferences. One of them was particularly striking.
protected and sustained.
S. 32 mentions that "the pool of scientists and engineers is
The difficulty could be resolved if the Council of Ad-
an invaluable national resource." It goes on at another
visers or the Office of Science and Technology had respon-
point to state that "scientists and engineers must have
sibility for recommending a long-term-say 5 years-invest-
continuing opportunities for socially useful employment in
ment program for science and technology, subject to the
positions commensurate with their professional and technical
year-to-year fluctuations imposed by economic exigencies as
capabilities."
reflected in the budget prepared by the Office of Management
H.R. 10230 does not do any of this. Not only it doesn't do
and Budget.
that, but a reference which was in the original text of H.R.
The preparation of an investment program for science and
8058 and which was directed toward insuring the "full utiliza-
technology would give genuine substance to the planning
tion of the technical manpower" of this country was stricken
function envisioned in both H.R. 10230 and S. 32.
from the final text.
A statement in the bill passed by Congress emphasiz-
We feel that it is inconceivable to make a major step toward
ing that the scope of the Science Adviser's responsibilities
recognizing science and technology and its central role in this
should include the scientific and technological aspects of
country without looking out for the practitioners of science
policies for national security and international relations and
and technology. It is vital for this country, SO that we main-
oversight of programs supporting these policies could be
tain the leadership of which I talked before, that we attract
useful.
the brightest, that we teach them well, that we give them
Dr. Thomas G. Fox (Science Adviser to the Governor of
appropriate rewards, and that we insure that they age in
Pennsylvania) :
dignity.
It is also important, in order to be able to do a good job
I think the key factor is that these bills provide at the
in this area, that we establish an adequate data base to know
Federal level the kind of input from State and local govern-
where we stand and where we go with our scientific and en-
ment we need. I refer to provisions like the one in S. 32 to
gineering manpower.
provide an Intergovernmental Policy Council and to provide
If the Science Adviser has no substantial influence on
to the States some financial support from the Federal level to
the budget process, then he becomes the decoration that I
implement this program. If such provisions would be in-
referred to before.
stituted, we indeed could move ahead very far and rapidly
The general intent of the Federal Government in science
in establishing intergovernmental partnerships in managing
and technology is well and nice, but what really matters is
the use of technology that are absolutely required.
what is getting done, and that which is being done is ex-
There are many States that are deeply into this with
pressed in one way only-besides speeches-and that is money
10 years of positive experience. And there are a number of
that is being spent.
States that have studied what to do. For example, here is an
So I think the answer to that question must be strongly
excellent study by Puerto Rico on what they need to do, one
affirmative. The Science Adviser must have a role in budget
by the State of California and one by Hawaii. I would say
preparation or else he will not be effective.
there are at least 20 or 30 States that have had good experience
or have comprehensive and sophisticated studies of this ques-
AGENCY COMMENTS
tion. I think we should move ahead and not wait.
Comments on S. 32, S. 1987, or H.R. 10230 were requested by the
Mr. Arthur P. Stern (President of the Institute of Electrical and
Committee on Labor and Public Welfare, the Committee on Commerce,
Electronic Engineers) :
or the Committee on Aeronautical and Space Sciences from a number
while it would be wrong to force on the President any-
of agencies, including: Department of Health, Education, and Wel-
thing that he does not readily accept, it seems to me difficult
fare; National Science Foundation, National Aeronautics and Space
to imagine that a science and technology policy adviser could
Administration; Energy Research and Development Administration;
be effective unless he sits on the Domestic Council and on the
Environmental Protection Agency; Council of Economic Advisers;
National Security Council, and unless he has a great say in
Council on Environmental Quality; Office of Management and
38
39
Budget; and General Accounting Office. The following comments were
such grants now, perhaps on a demonstration basis, if it considered
received in response to those requests:
such grants to be a prudent use of their funds. I would assume that
their failure to do SO implies that they believe that alternative uses
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE
of their funds will enable the scientific and technical community to
COUNCIL OF ECONOMIC ADVISERS,
make a more significant contribution to the public interest.
Washington, March 11, 1975.
In summary I do not believe that S. 32 would be an efficient method
Hon. HARRISON A. WILLIAMS, Jr.,
of enhancing the Federal Government's ability to utilize the resources
U.S. Senate,
of the scientific and technical community to solve economic and social
Committee on Labor and Public Welfare,
problems. The Office of Management and Budget has advised me that
Washington, D.C.
this report is consistent with the President's program.
DEAR SENATOR WILLIAMS: This is in response to your request for the
Sincerely,
views of the Council of Economic Advisers on S. 32, the proposed
ALAN GREENSPAN.
"National Policy and Priorities for Science and Technology Act of
1975."
COMPTROLLER GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES.
It is important that science and technology make as free a contribu-
Washington, D.C., May 5, 1975.
tion to public policy formulation as possible. Many important and
B-58911
serious problems cannot be solved efficiently without an adequate under-
Hon. HARRISON A. WILLIAMS, Jr.,
standing of the scientific and technological parameters that they entail.
Chairman, Committee on Labor and Public Welfare,
The proposed bill, however, would attempt to facilitate the contribu-
U.S. Senate
tion of the scientific community to the public policy-making process
DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: Reference is made to your communication of
in an inefficient and contradictory manner.
January 24, 1975, requesting our comments on S. 32, 94th Congress.
The Council of Advisers on Science and Technology is assigned the
The would establish a framework for the formulation of national
task of providing confidential policy advice to the President on public
policy and priorities for science and technology and, if enacted, would
policy issues that involve scientific and technological considerations.
be cited as the "National Policy and Priorities for Science and Tech-
Yet, simultaneously, the Act directs this same Council, after consult-
nology Act of 1975."
ing with the Council of Economic Advisers about the "state of the
This measure would change the existing Federal science policy ap-
economy," to publicly recommend to both the President and the Con-
paratus. It creates a framework and technology which are very similar
gress priorities and funding levels to guide Federal expenditures for
to that of the former Office of Science and Technology. It would create
scientific and technological research and development-independently
a Council of Advisors on Science and Technology in the Executive
of the normal process of formulating the President's budget. Then in
Office who would advise the President on major policy, plans, and pro-
each of those instances that the President's Budget differs from its
grams of science and technology of the Federal Government. As part
own recommendation the Council is directed to append to its annual
of this framework, it also creates a Federal Coordinating Committee
Science and Technology Report the justification for its own recom-
for Science and Technology with various responsibilities related to
mendation along with the President's reason for rejecting them. Al-
problems and developments in the fields of science and technology
though I am puzzled about the reasons for proposing this procedure,
and related activities affecting more than one Federal agency.
I am quite certain it would not result in a greater contribution by the
Under the present the Director, National Science Foundation, acts
scientific community to the public policy process. At best, either the
as both Director of the Foundation and as the President's Science Ad-
proposed Council's role as the President's scientific counselor or the
visor. The Director also chairs the Federal Council on Science and
Council's role as the President's public critic would be served poorly.
Technology which would be abolished by the bill.
The bill would also assign to the Council many functions that are
A proposal to change the national science advisory mechanism is a
new performed by the Office of Management and Budget. These func-
national issue with great impact. The Comptroller General previously
tions are part of a comprehensive budgeting process. The existence of
discussed the Federal Organization for Science and Technology in-
an independent Council within the Executive Office of the President
cluding some of the changes that are proposed in S. 32 in his testimony
might enable a President to evaluate how well OMB was performing
before the House Committee on Science and Astronautics on July 9,
these functions but, they would have to continue to be performed
1974. A copy of this testimony is enclosed.
within OMB even if S. 32 were to be enacted. Thus these provisions of
Many of the policy statements included in section 2, and the specific
the bill would create an unnecessary, and perhaps even counter-produc-
purpose of the act, stated in item (c) on page 4, indicate a strong
tive, duplication of effort.
emphasis on the application of science and technology to the further-
The bill also would direct the Director of the National Science
ance of national goals. However, titles I, II, and III deal primarily
Foundation to give two-year starter grants to each state that wished to
with the Presidential advisory function, planning, strategy and pri-
organize an "Office of State Science and Technology." Neither the
orities for Federal investments in science and technology, and Fed-
necessity nor rationale for such grants are apparent. NSF could make
eral oversight and coordination. Title IV provides for a limited co-
40
41
ordinating network with the "standard regions" representing State
the Energy Research and Development Administration. Licensing and
and local government interests and needs.
related regulatory responsibilities were transferred to an independent
Although the Federal Government sponsors the major portion of
commission-the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Since the pre-
the public investment in research and development, the ultimate ap-
scribed membership includes a representative of the Energy Research
plication and utilization of science and technology for civilian needs
and Development Administration, the Committee may wish to con-
requires implementation by States and local governments, with help
sider deleting the Atomic Energy Commission as a member and sub-
from the private sector. This involves a very complex process to over-
stituting the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
come the barriers and provide the necessary incentives for techno-
Section 301, title III would amend section 3(d) of the National
logical innovation. The bill does not appear to be fully developed
Science Foundation Act of 1950 to read "The foundation shall recom-
with respect to establishing improved mechanisms for delivery of
mend and encourage the pursuit of national policies designed to foster
technology into the public and private domain. Its primary emphasis
research and education in science and engineering, and the application
is concerned with the generation of technological options resulting
of scientific and technical knowledge to the solution of national prob-
from research.
lems." (Underscoring supplied.)
We suggest, therefore, that the intergovernmental advisory pro-
Section 3(d) now reads "The Board and the Director shall recom-
gram proposed in title IV be examined in the light of experience
mend and encourage the pursuit of national policies for the pro-
gained from various civil agency programs, including the R&D As-
motion of basic research and education in the sciences." (Italic sup-
sessment Program and the Intergovernmental Science Program spon-
plied.) The proposed amendment would therefore substitute "re-
sored by the National Science Foundation through the last several
search" for "basic research."
years. In these programs a number of studies, experiments and demon-
As stated in section 3 (a) (1) of the National Science Foundation
stration efforts have been performed to identify institutional relation-
Act of 1950, as amended, one of the primary functions of the Founda-
ships between and among Federal, State, and local governments, and
tion is to 66* * * initiate and support basic scientific research and pro-
the private sector, and to catalyze efforts to stimulate technology in-
grams to strengthen scientific research potential and science education
novation and the transfer and utilization of technology.
programs at all levels in the mathematical, physical, medical, biologi-
In title I, section 102(a) the Council is directed to perform an
cal, engineering, social, and other sciences, * *." Section 3(c) pro-
annual appraisal of progress in science and technology in relation to
vides the Foundation with authority to initiate and support applied
national needs, taking into account the state of the economy through
research.
consultation with the Council of Economic Advisors, and to determine
Over the years the scientific community and the Congress have ex-
the desired level of Federal investment in science and technology for
pressed concern that the Foundation would lessen its emphasis on
the next succeeding fiscal year. We believe that in performing this
basic research by providing increased support for applied research.
appraisal and determining the desired level of Federal investment
The Foundation recently stated that of its proposed fiscal year 1976
other factors besides the economy should also be considered. We there-
budget dealing directly with research, about 83 percent is earmarked
fore suggest that the wording of this section be revised to include
for basic research. The remaining 17 percent of the research budget
consultation with the National Security Council, the Domestic Coun-
is aimed at applied research areas focusing primarily on major na-
cil and the Council on Environmental Quality.
tional problems.
As a step toward identifying means for strengthening the delivery
The Committee may wish to revise the wording of the proposed
mechanisms for the application and utilization of science and tech-
amendment of section 3(d) to identify the emphasis the Foundation
nology we suggest that consideration be given to expanding the scope
should place on basic research and applied research.
of the study described in title I, section 107 for assignment to the
Section 304 (d) (2), title III provides that the National Science
National Academy of Sciences. In addition to examining Federal or-
Foundation shall allocate fellowships under this subsection in such
ganization for science and technology, the study might include an
manner, insofar as practicable, as will-
examination of the institutional relationships between the Federal,
(A) attract highly qualified applicants; and
State and local governments, and other factors that affect the innova-
now is the time for all good men to come to the aid of their country
tive process, especially with respect to the improvement of public
(B) provide an equitable distribution of such fellowships
services.
throughout the United States.
Section 201 (b), title II, provides for the membership of the Federal
The Committee may wish to include a provision that the Foundation
Coordinating Committee for Science and Technology. Included in
should also consider the scientific manpower needs in awarding con-
the prescribed membership is a representative of the Atomic Energy
tinuing education fellowships to assure that the most needed types of
Commission and the Energy Research and Development Adminis-
scientific manpower receive financial aid in updating their skills.
tration. The Atomic Energy Commission was abolished by section
Sections 105 (3), title I, and 403 (a), title IV, contain authority for
104(a), title I. of the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974, Pub. L. No.
the Chairman of the Council and the Charman of the Intergovern-
93-438 approved October 11, 1974. The Act split the responsibilities
mental Science and Technology Advisory Committee to appoint and
of the former Atomic Energy Commission. Responsibilities relating
fix the compensation of certain personnel without regard to the pro-
to the research and development of nuclear energy were transferred to
visions of title 5, United States Code. We are not aware of the need
42
43
to exempt such personnel from these provisions. Generally, it should
rangements, entered into under other than by formal advertising, and
be possible to obtain qualified personnel within the structure of the
which are otherwise authorized by this Act, shall keep such records as
General Schedule.
the Council or the Foundation shall prescribe, including records which
Section (a) authorizes grants of up to $100,000 to any State to
fully disclose the amount and disposition by such recipient of the pro-
pay a part of the cost of establishing an Office of State Science and
ceeds of such assistance, the total cost of the project or undertaking in
Technology. Further, Section 404 (b) (2) provides that a State re-
connection with which such assistance is given or used, the amount of
ceiving such grant funds will, after two years, assume the cost of
that portion of the cost of the project or undertaking supplied by other
operating such an organization. This methodology for encouraging
sources, and such ther records as will facilitate as effective audit.
the establishment and maintenance of a program or organization is
"(b) The Council and the Foundation and the Comptroller General
quite common, often referred to as "seed-money" grants. However, it
of the United States, or any of their duly authorized representatives,
is also common practice when using this method of financing to re-
shall, until the expiration of three years after completion of the project
quire the recipient not only to assume the cost of a previously sup-
or undertaking referred to in subsection (a) of this section, have access
ported activity, but also to maintain a reasonably consistent level of
for the purpose of audit and examination to any books, documents,
effort. The maintenance of effort requirement is not contained in the
papers and records of such recipients which in the opinion of the
subject bill, nor does the bill stipulate how large a "part of the cost"
Council or the Foundation or the Comptroller General may be related
the grant may constitute.
or pertinent to the grants, contracts, subcontracts, subgrants, loans
To illustrate the effect of these provisions, the following example is
or other arrangements referred to in subsection (a)
offered. A State could establish an organization costing $200,000 an-
Enclosed are several suggested editorial changes to the bill.
nually-$100,000 provided by National Science Foundation and $100,-
Sincerely yours,
000 provided by the State. After two years, Federal assistance would
ELMER B. STAATS,
end and the State, required to assume the cost of operating the orga-
Comptroller General
nization, could decide to fund it at a level of $100,000. Thus, the State
of the United States.
Enclosures.
would be complying with the bill, but would also be reducing consider-
ably the total level of effort. There is nothing inherently wrong with
SUGGESTED TECHNICAL AND EDITORIAL CHANGES TO S. 32
permitting such consequences to occur, but the issue is whether the
Congress desires to proceed in this fashion.
(1) Page 1, line 6, sec. 2(2) should be sec. (a).
Further, the bill contains no penalties or other sanctions to be ap-
(2) Page 4, line 23, and page 15, the title of the Committee should
plied in the event a State fails to assume the cost of an organization as
be consistent in the bill (page 4 has "Interagency" in the title, page 15
required by section (b) (2).
does not).
We note that the bill does not specifically provide for an evaluation
(3) Page 15, line 18, Agency in Energy Research and Development
of the program. It is our view that program evaluation is a funda-
Agency should be Administration.
mental part of effective program administration and that the respon-
(4) Page 18, line 7, foundation should be Foundation.
sibility for evaluations should rest initially upon the responsible
(5) Page 22, line 24 Cities/United States should be Cities, United
agency. In line with this concept, we believe the Congress should at-
States.
tempt to specify the kinds of information and tests which will enable
it to better assess how well programs are working and whether alterna-
ENERGY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION,
tive approaches may offer greater promise. We will be happy to work
Washington, D.C. September 4, 1975.
with the Committee in developing specific language if you wish.
Hon. WARREN G. MAGNUSON,
Also, the bill does not provide for access by the General Accounting
Chairman, Committee on Commerce,
Office to the records of recipients of assistance thereunder for purposes
U.S. Senate, Washington, D.C.
of audit and examination. While section 202 of the Intergovernmental
DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: This is in response to your letter of July 1,
Cooperation Act of 1968, Pub. L. No. 90-577, October 16, 1968, 82 Stat.
1975, requesting the comments of the Energy Research and Develop-
1101, 42 U.S.C. § 4212, would provide such authority with regard to
ment Administration on S. 1987, the "Presidential Science and Tech-
the grants to States authorized by section 404 of the bill, it would not
nology Advisory Organization Act of 1975." This bill would establish
apply to the contracts or arrangements which sections 101 (c) and 107
in the Executive Office of the President the Office of Science and Tech-
authorize the Council of Advisers on Science and Technology to enter
nology Policy for the purpose of providing advice and assistance to the
into, or to the grants or contracts which section 304 authorizes the
President with respect to scientific and technological considerations
National Science Foundation to make or enter into. We recommend
affecting national policies and programs.
that such a provision be added to the bill. This could be accomplished
by adding a new section 503 to the bill as follows:
The Energy Research and Development Administration strongly
supports enactment of S. 1987. Since 1973 the functions of a Presi-
"SEC. (a) Each recipient of Federal assistance under this Act, pur-
dential Science Adviser have been placed under the Director of the
suant to grants, subgrants, contracts, subcontracts, loans or other ar-
44
45
National Science Foundation. The Energy Research and Development
the other Federal agencies, which possess great scientific and techno-
Administration endorses the concept of a science and technology pres-
logical resources.
ence which responds to and serves the President's needs. S. 1987
The Foundation urges the prompt consideration of S. 1987 by the
strengthens this concept by making the position of Science Adviser
Congress and its swift enactment.
a full-time undertaking.
The Office of Management and Budget has advised us that there is
The Office of Management and Budget has advised us that there is
no objection to the submission of this report, and that enactment of
no objection to the presentation of this report, and enactment of
S. 1987 would be in accord with the program of the President.
S. 1987 would be in accordance with the program of the President.
Sincerely yours,
Sincerely,
H. GUYFORD STEVER,
R. TENNEY JOHNSON,
Director.
General Counsel.
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION,
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION,
Washington, D.C., November 25, 1975.
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR,
Hon. FRANK E. Moss,
Washington, D.C., August 28, 1975.
Hon. WARREN G. MAGNUSON,
Chairman, Committee on Aeronautical and Space Sciences,
Chairman, Committee on Commerce, U.S. Senate,
U.S. Senate, Washington, D.C.
ashington, D.C.
DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN : Thank you for the opportunity extended to me
at the hearing to comment or suggest any improvements that should
DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: This is in response to your letter of July 1,
be made in H.R. 10230, the Science and Technology Policy Act re-
1975, requesting the comments of the National Science Foundation on
S. 1987, the "Presidential Science and Technology Advisory Organi-
cently passed by the House of Representatives. The bill has been re-
zation Act of 1975."
viewed very carefully within the Administration. While we could
The Foundation strongly supports enactment of S. 1987. As you
conceivably suggest a few minor perfecting changes in the bill, I do
know, the proposed legislation is the result of a decision by President
not believe any changes are sufficiently important to warrant a delay
in the passage of the bill.
Ford to establish a new Office of Science and Technology Policy in the
As the President has indicated, H.R. 10230 is acceptable to the Ad-
Executive Office of the President in order to continue and strengthen
ministration and we recommend its passage by the Senate at the earli-
the role of science and technology in his Administration. In his letters
of June 9, 1975 to the Speaker and the Vice President transmitting
est practicable date.
the proposed legislation, the President noted the vital contribution of
Sincerely yours,
H. GUYFORD STEVER,
science and technology to the continued progress of the nation. He ex-
Science Adviser.
pressed his intent that the Director of the new Office provide advice
Cost ESTIMATES
to him and his top assistants in policy areas where scientific or tech-
nological considerations were involved. The President also expressed
In accordance with section 252 of the Legislative Reorganiza-
his intent to appoint the Director as his Science and Technology Ad-
tion Act of 1970, the Committees estimate that costs which would
viser and as the Chairman of the Federal Council on Science and
be received in carrying out this bill for fiscal year 1976, the period
Technology.
from July 1, 1976 through September 30, 1976, and fiscal year 1977,
I fully agree with the President's actions in this matter. I believe that
would be as follows:
these decisions, as expressed in the President's letter on June 9, 1975,
and as reflected in the provisions of S. 1987, will bring science and
Fiscal year 1976
Title II
$1,000,000
technology into a colser and more effective relationship to Federal
Title III
1,000,000
policy matters and the operation of Federal programs. Critical to
Title V
2,000,000
such a process is provision for advice and counsel to the President and
Total
4,000,000
top level staff on the scientific and technological aspects of policy ques-
tions. I have consistently supported the concept of a science and tech-
July 1-September 30, 1976:
nology presence which responds to and serves the President's needs.
Title II
250,000
S. 1987 will do this by establishing within the Executive Office of the
Title III
250,000
Title V
1,000,000
President a new Office at a level commensurate with the important
functions assigned to the Director as the President's chief policy ad-
Total
1,500,000
viser with respect to scientific and technological matters (Sections 3
and 4 of the bill). The Office established by the bill will create a com-
Fiscal year 1977
Title II
pact but highly competent professional taff within the White House
3,000,000
Title III
1,000,000
(Section 5) with authority provided by Section 6 and 7 to tap not only
Title V
8,000,000
outside expert consultant and other services, but also the capability of
Total
12,000,000
46
47
TABULATION OF VOTES CAST IN COMMITTEE
[SEC. 3. Transfer and performance of functions. (a) There are
hereby transferred from the National Science Foundation to the
Pursuant to section 133 (b) of the Legislative Reorganization Act
Director:
of 1946, as amended, the following is the tabulation of votes on S. 32
in the three committees:
[(1) So much of the functions conferred upon the Foundation by
the provisions of section 3 (a) (1) of the National Science Founda-
The Committee on Aeronautical and Space Sciences, without objec-
tion, ordered the bill, as amended, reported favorably.
tion Act of 1950 (42 U.S.C. 1862 (a) (1)) as will enable the Director
to advise and assist the President in achieving coordinated Federal
The Committee on Commerce, without objection, ordered the bill,
as amended, reported favorably.
policies for the promotion of basic research and education in the
sciences.
The Committee on Labor and Public Welfare unanimously ordered
[(2) The functions conferred upon the Foundation by that part
the bill, as amended, reported favorably.
of section 3 (a) (6) of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950
CHANGES IN EXISTING LAW
(42 U.S.C. 1862 (a) (6)) which reads as follows: "to evaluate scientific
research programs undertaken by agencies of the Federal Govern-
ment."
In compliance with subsection (4) of rule XXIX of the Standing
Rules of the Senate, changes in existing law made by the bill, as
[(b) In carrying out the functions transferred by the provisions
of section 3 (a) of this reorganization plan, the Director shall assist
reported, are shown as follows (existing law proposed to be omitted
the President as the may request with respect to the coordination of
is enclosed in black brackets, new matter is printed in italic, existing
Federal scientific and technological functions and agencies.
law in which no change is proposed is shown in roman)
:
[(c) The Director may from time to time make such provisions
REORGANIZATION PLAN No. 2 OF 1962
as he deems appropriate authorizing the performance of any of his
functions by any other officer, or by any employee or agency, of the
Office.
Prepared by the President and transmitted to the Senate and the
[SEc. 4. Personnel. The Director may appoint employees necessary
House of Representatives in Congress assembled, March 29, 1962,
for the work of the Office under the classified civil service and fix
pursuant to the provisions of the Reorganization Act of 1949, 63 Stat.
their compensation in accordance with the classification laws.]
203, as amended.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
CERTAIN SCIENCE AGENCIES AND FUNCTIONS
PART I-OFFICE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
SECTION 2 OF REORGANIZATION PLAN No. 1 OF 1973
SECTION 1. Office of Science and Technology. There is hereby
[SEC. 2. Transfer of functions to the Director, National Science
established in the Executive Office of the President the Office of
Foundation.-There are hereby transferred to the Director of the
Science and Technology, hereafter in this Part referred to as the
National Science Foundation all functions vested by law in the Office
Office.
of Science and Technology or the Director or Deputy Director of the
[SEC. 2. Director and deputy. (a) There shall be at the head of the
Office of Science and Technology.]
Office the Director of the Office of Science and Technology, hereafter
in this Part referred to as the Director. The Director shall be ap-
pointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the
Senate and shall receive compensation at the rate of $22,500 per
annum.
[(b) There shall be in the Office a Deputy Director of the Office of
Science and Technology, who shall be appointed by the President
by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and receive com-
pensation at the rate of $20,500 per annum. The Deputy Director
shall perform such functions as the Director may from time to time
prescribe and shall act as Director during the absence or disability
of the Director or in the event of vacancy in the office of Director.
[(c) No person shall while holding office as Director or Deputy
Director engage in any other business, vocation, or employment.
94TH CONGRESS
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
REPORT
1st Session
No. 94-595
NATIONAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY AND
ORGANIZATION ACT OF 1975
OCTOBER 29, 1975.-Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the
State of the Union and ordered to be printed
Mr. TEAGUE, from the Committee on Science and Technology,
submitted the following
REPORT
together with
ADDITIONAL VIEWS
[To accompany H.R. 10230]
The Committee on Science and Technology, to whom was referred
the bill (H.R. 10230) to establish a science and technology policy for
the United States, to provide for scientific and technological advice
and assistance to the President, to provide a comprehensive survey of
way and means for improving the Federal effort in scientific research
and information handling, and in the use thereof, to amend the Na-
tional Science Foundation Act of 1950, and for other purposes, having
considered the same, report favorably thereon without amendment
and recommend that the bill do pass.
PURPOSE OF THE BILL
The purpose of the bill is to establish a science and technology
policy for the United States, to provide for scientific and technological
advise and assistance to the President, and to provide a comprehensive
survey of ways and means for improving scientific research and infor-
mation handling, and the uses thereof.
57-006 O
EXPLANATION OF THE BILL
CONTENTS
TITLE I
Page
Explanation of the bill
3
Sets forth a National Science and Technology Policy which
History of the legislation
4
includes:
A. Background-the 1960's and 1970's
4
10
(1) Findings by the Congress of a number of cause-and-effect
B. Evolution of H.R. 10230
Summary of the testimony
11
relationships engendered by, and certain fundamental needs for,
Rationale for the bill
18
Science and Technology.
Sectional analysis of the bill
26
(2) A Declaration of Policy which includes: (a) basic principles
A. Provisions in brief
26
29
to be followed in the utilization of Science and Technology; (b)
B. Explanatory notes
Committee actions
38
methods of implementing the declared policy and (c) procedures
Committee views
39
which can be expected to enhance the implementation.
Estimate and comparison by the Congressional Budget Office
41
Oversight activities
41
TITLE II
Oversight findings and recommendations by the Committee on Government
Operations
41
Effect of legislation on inflation
41
Establishes Office of Science & Technology Policy in the Executive
Federal Advisory Committee Act
41
Office of the President.
Cost and budget data
42
(1) Provides for a Director, to be appointed by the President
Committee recommendations
42
42
with Senate confirmation, who also serves as the President's per-
Administration views
Changes in existing law made by the bill as reported
43
sonal science adviser.
Additional views of the Honorable George E. Brown, Jr
47
(2) Provides up to four Assistant Directors to be determined at
(2)
the President's option.
(3) Sets forth eleven specific functions of the Director as
head of the Office.
(4) Incorporates a reorganization feature to permit the Presi-
dent, or his successor, to reorganize the Office-with Congres-
sional approval and within certain time limits.
TITLE III
Establishes a Federal Science and Technology Survey Committee,
with a lifetime of 24 months, within the Executive Office of the
President:
(1) The Committee consists of from 5 to 12 exceptionally quali-
fied members, appointed by the President, and is chaired by the
Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy.
(2) The function of the Committee is to "survey, examine and
analyze the overall context of the Federal science and technology
effort, including missions, goals, personnel, funding, organization,
facilities and activities in general." Eleven areas of investigation
are set forth, although these are not exclusive.
(3) The Committee submits its final report, including find-
ings, conclusions and recommendations, to the President-who
then has 60 days to review the report and transmit it to Congress
with such recommendations for action as he believes to be
warranted.
(3)
4
5
TITLE IV
tionale for the development of a national science policy and specific
recommendations for carrying out such a policy. Consistency of sup-
Miscellaneous provisions, which include:
port was a key theme.
(1) Authorization of funds.
In March 1972, the President sent Congress a special message urg-
(2) Conforming amendments.
ing renewed emphasis on science and technology, with particular at-
tention to applications. The message indicated that something over
HISTORY OF THE LEGISLATION
$700 million in new money was being requested for civilian R&D
programs. Only two programs totalling about $40 million subsequently
A. BACKGROUND-THE 1960's AND 1970's
came into being; these were the so-called Technology Innovation Pro-
The past decade has been one of unusual importance for the Fed-
grams of the National Science Foundation and the National Bureau
of Standards, designed to accelerate new technology into industrial
eral role in science and technology. It is also one of considerable
and consumer use. Such programs, initially slowed by impoundment
fluctuation in Federal support and, while strongly influenced by space
action of OMB, have never become substantial.
and security needs, has included marked advances in virtually all
R&D areas.
1973
This period saw the formation of a number of congressional com-
mittees designed to deal with the scientific upsurge. Among these
A major shake-up in the Federal science establishment occurred in
was the Science, Research and Development (SRD) Subcommittee of
January 1973 with the announcement of the President's Reorganiza-
this committee, established in 1963. Others included the House
tion Plan No. 1, to become effective July 1. Under that plan the Office
Select Committee on Government Research [known as the Elliott
of Science and Technology was abolished and many of its functions
Committee], the House Subcommittee on Research and Technical
transferred to the Director of the National Science Foundation. At the
Programs of the Government Operations Committee, the Senate Gov-
same time, the President did away with the Office of the President's
ernment Operations Study of Executive Reorganization for Science,
Science Adviser as a separate top-level entity and the President's
the Senate Subcommittee on Government Research (the latter two
Science Advisory Committee; the remnant functions of these offices
under the Government Operations Committee), and the Senate Small
(national security excepted) also were lodged with the NSF director,
Business Subcommittee on Science and Technology.
who subsequently was named the President's "science adviser" by
During the same period significant developments, both programatic
letter dated July 1, 1973. Another coordinating institution, the Federal
and organizational, were taking place within the Executive Office of
Council for Science and Technology, was retained but with the Direc-
the President and throughout the various departments and agencies.
tor of the Foundation designated as its chairman. NSF itself has been
One of the most important of these was the establishment of the Office
providing the funding and personnel to handle these added tasks.
of Science and Technology within the Executive Office-initiated in
The Reorganization Plan was reviewed briefly by the Government
1962 but not fully operative until several years thereafter. OST was
Operations Committees of both houses. No other action was taken,
set up to assist the President in coordinating and evaluating science
which was tantamount to congressional approval of the plan.
activities across the broad spectrum of the government.
Meanwhile, during the late '60s and the early 70s virtually all the
During the mid-1960's Federal support for R&D reached a relative
special congressional committees involved with science and technology
peak of about $16 billion, a little more than 121/2 percent of the total
disappeared. While several new ones have emerged, they are primarily
Federal budget outlay. (In 1950 total Federal R&D support was $1.1
concerned with specific missions such as enhancement of the environ-
billion, or 2.5 percent of the Federal budget.) By 1967, however, na-
ment, energy or commerce. Hence, the Science and Technology Com-
tional attention was focusing elsewhere; dissension existed throughout
mittee, in addition to being charged specifically with oversight of the
the country for a variety of reasons; some were saying an anti-
National Science Foundation (which, together with its director, is
technology trend had set in. Whatever the cause, the Federal effort, in
now the repository of the major science advisory functions in the
support of science and technology began to drop, at least relatively,
executive branch), is the only congressional committee with broad
and has been dropping ever since. The nearly $16 billion obligations
authority over science and technology per se.
for R&D in 1965 has increased to $20.7 billion in 1975, expenditures
In light of the foregoing, the Committee undertook the first part of
from $15 billion to about $20 billion. But this is a loss in relative
an extensive review of Federal planning, policy and organization for
effort from 12.6 percent of the Federal budget to 6.5 percent in ex-
Science and Technology through status and posture hearings. These
penditures, and from about 2 percent of the G.N.P. to about 1.1 per-
described the basic Federal science and technology format and the
cent. That trend has been consistent since 1965 and represents a fall-
objectives and modes of operation contemplated by the Executive.
off of effort in absolute as well as relative terms when inflation is
The hearings were held in July, 1973, and included most officials
taken into account.
who had succeeded to the stewardship of the overall Federal science
This shifting situation caused the SRD, Subcommittee to hold a
effort. Witnesses were as follows:
series of hearings on national science policy in 1970. Subsequently, a
Dr. H. Guyford Stever, science adviser to the President and
report was issued in October of that year which contained both a ra-
Director, National Science Foundation; accompanied by Dr. Russell
6
7
C. Drew, Director, Office of Science and Technology Policy, Dr. Lloyd
Cooke, Chairman, Planning-Policy Committee, National Science
Following the completion and issuance of the Committee's Interim
Board, and director of urban affairs, Union Carbide Corp., New York;
Report on Federal Policy, Plans and Organization for Science and
Dr. Raymond L. Bisplinghoff, Deputy Director of National Science
Technology (House Rept. 93-1184) which identified a broad range of
Foundation and Dr. Paul F. Donovan, Head of the National Science
issues which needed further probing, the Committee undertook its
Foundation Energy Task Force.
second series of hearings. These were held throughout June and July
Dr. William O. Baker, president, Bell Telephone Laboratories, and
of 1974 and were devoted almost exclusively to the views of non-
ad hoc adviser to the Administration on technological matters.
government authorities in the field of science policy and its interface
Dr. John C. Sawhill, at that time Associate Director for Natural
with and between government, the academic world, industry and
Resources, Energy and Science, Office of Management and Budget.
foreign affairs.
Dr. Edward E. David, executive vice president, research and devel-
Twenty-six witnesses appeared before the Committee, including all
opment President. and planning, Gould, Inc., former Science Adviser to the
6 of the former Presidential Science Advisers. In addition, the Com-
mittee received a variety of related papers and commentaries on the
Mr. William D. Carey, vice president, Arthur D. Little, Inc., for-
subject, plus a special comparative study requested of the National
merely chief of Science and Technology for the Bureau of the Budget.
Science Foundation on science advisory approaches used among other
Hon. George P. Shultz, then Secretary of the Treasury and special
scientifically advanced nations.
assistant to the President on economic and domestic affairs (written
Witnesses who appeared at this set of hearings were:
response to questions only).
Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman, Technology Assessment
1974
Board; chairman, Subcommittee on National Science Foundation;
Senate Committee on Labor and Public Welfare.
Following the hearings and subsequent to review of them by the
Dr. Robert C. Seamans, Jr., president, National Academy of Engi-
staff, the Committee requested a critique of the information and plans
neering.
disclosed by the hearings from three different organizations:
Dr. Chauncey Starr, president, Electric Power Research Institute.
(1) The Committee on Science and Public Policy of the Ameri-
Dr. Philip Handler, President, National Academy of Sciences.
can Association for the Advancement of Science.
Dr. James R. Killian, Jr., Chairman of the ad hoc Committee on
(2) The Federal Science and Technology Committee of the In-
dustrial Research Institute.
Science and Technology, National Academy of Sciences, and Honor-
ary Chairman of the Corporation, MIT; accompanied by Dr. Kenneth
(3) The Science Policy Research Division of the Congressional
Pitzer, vice chairman of the NAS ad hoc committee and professor of
Research Service, Library of Congress.
chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, and Dr. Emanuel R.
The work of these groups in response to the request was completed,
Piore, vice chairman of the NAS ad hoc committee and retired vice
and the three reports carried in full in the Committee's Interim Report
president and chief scientist, IBM Corp.; Dr. Ivan L. Bennett, Jr.,
in 1974. Each described a variety of issues and problems which the
member of the NAS ad hoc committee and director, New York Uni-
respective groups felt should be explored.
versity Medical Center.
Among those most frequently mentioned were the following:
Prof. Jurgen Schmandt, LBJ School of Public Affairs, University
Coordination and evaluation of Federal science activities.
of Texas, accompanied by Dr. Richard Scribner, director, Office of
Science and Society Programs, AAAS.
The role of the Science Adviser in military R&D.
Dr. Edward E. David, Jr., vice president for research, development,
The functioning of the NSF's Office of Science and Technology
and planning, Gould, Inc.
Policy.
Elmer B. Staats, Comptroller General, accompanied by Phillip S.
The multiple assignments of the Science Adviser together with pos-
sible consequent conflicts of interest.
Hughes, Assistant Comptroller General; Harold H. Rubin, Deputy
Director, Procurement and Systems Acquisition Division.
Access to the President.
Don Price, dean of the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard
Advice for science policy.
University.
Advisory bodies for science policy.
Dr. George B. Kistiakowsky, Department of Chemistry, Harvard
An annual report on science policy.
University; Dr. Jerome B. Wiesner, president, MIT, Dr. Donald F.
Budgeting for science and technology.
Hornig, president, Brown University and Dr. Lee A. DuBridge,
Decisionmaking and priorities re science policy.
former president, California Institute of Technology.
Functions of the Federal Council for Science and Technology.
Dr. Patrick E. Haggerty, chairman of the board, Texas Instru-
Implementation of Reorganization Plan No. 1.
ments, Inc.
The OMB and science policy.
Dr. Philip Morrison, chairman of the board, Federation of American
The role of the Committee on Science and Technology.
Scientists.
Stability of funding for science and technology.
Dr. Lewis M. Branscomb, vice president for research, IBM Corp.
A strategy for science policy and programs.
Dr. N. Bruce Hannay, vice president, Research and Patents, Bell
Laboratories, president, Industrial Research Institute; and Dr. Her-
8
9
bert I. Fusfeld, director of research, Kennecott Copper Corp. chair-
Dr. John C. Calhoun, National Association of State Universities
man, Federal Science and Technology Committee, Industrial Re-
and Land-Grant Colleges, American Association of Universities and
search Institute.
American Council on Education; vice president for academic affairs,
Dr. William D. McElroy, chancellor, University of California, San
Texas A. & M. University.
Diego, Calif., former director, National Science Foundation.
Dr. Nathan T. Wolkomir, president, National Federation of Fed-
Dr. Brewster Denny, dean, Graduate School of Public Affairs, Uni-
eral Employees, presented by Mr. George Tilton, associate general
versity of Washington.
counsel, National Federation of Federal Employees.
1975
Dr. Arthur M. Bueche, vice president, research and development,
General Electric Co., and president, Industrial Research Institute.
Upon completion of these hearings and the receipt of requested
Dr. George K. Davis, professor of nutrition and director of spon-
materials, the Committee staff, in conjunction with the Science Policy
sored research, University of Florida and chairman, Public Affairs
Division of the Congressional Research Service and the Office of the
Committee, Federation of American Societies of Experimental
House Legislative Counsel, spent the next 6 months in reviewing the
testimony and materials which the Committee had obtained and in
Biology. Dr. Conyers Herring, former Chairman, Advisory Science Infor-
making further informal investigations to fill some of the remaining
mation Council, National Science Foundation and former head, The-
informational gaps.
A bill was then drafted which attempted to incorporate most of the
oretical Physics Research Department, Bell Laboratories.
Dr. Lewis M. Branscomb, vice president and chief scientist, IBM
major policy and organizational features which had been recommended
to the Committee and which appeared to have substantial support in
Corp.
one form or another. It was the intent, in drafting the bill, to address
Dr. Bowen C. Dees, president, the Franklin Institute.
Dr. Ernest R. Gilmont, chairman, Committee of Scientific Society
all the major issues or recommendations which had been received, and
Presidents.
to put them together in a reasonable format that would promote
further serious thought and discussion.
Dr. Eugene B. Skolnikoff, director, Center for International Stud-
This bill, H.R. 4461, was introduced on March 6, 1975, by Mr.
ies, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Teague and Mr. Mosher. Simultaneously, Mr. Teague issued an ex-
The following submitted statements for the record
planatory statement on the proposed "National Science Policy and
American Society for Public Administration.
Organization Act of 1975." The statement sought to describe the ra-
Michael J. Moravesik, Institute of Theoretical Science, University
tionale behind the bill and put it into perspective for the legislative
of Oregon.
hearings scheduled for early summer.
A. Michael Noll, past assistant to the Director of the Office of Science
From the time of the introduction of the bill until the hearings
and Technology.
began in June, the bill's sponsors and the Committee staff were fre-
Federation of American Scientists.
quently in touch with the Administration and the Executive Office of
Drs. Richard Trumbull and Robert W. Krauss, for the American
the President, seeking to elicit such preferences as the Administration
Institute of Biological Sciences.
might have and looking toward securing its views on H.R. 4461.
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc.
On June 10, 1975, the full Committee met in conference with the
Russell E. Train, Administrator, Environmental Protection
Vice President, who relayed some of the Administration's preferences
Agency.
and also transmitted a proposed bill which the White House indicated
Statement of the presidents of certain engineering societies.
it would be willing to support. Mr. Teague introduced the latter bill,
Coordinating Committee of Engineering Society Presidents.
H.R. 7830, on June 11 SO that the formal hearings might cover both
Paul G. Zurkowski, president, the Information Industry Associa-
bills.
tion.
The hearings on these bills were held June 10-23, 1975, and included
National Federation of Abstracting & Indexing Services.
the following witnesses.
Courtland D. Perkins, president, National Academy of Engineering.
Dr. H. Guyford Stever, Science Adviser to the President and Di-
Jurgen Schmandt, LBJ School of Public Affairs, the University of
rector, National Science Foundation.
Texas at Austin.
N. Bruce Hannay, vice president, research and patents, Bell
Upon the completion of the hearings and a further period of exami-
Laboratories.
nation and study of materials received by the Committee, Mr. Teague
Congressman Mike McCormack, from the State of Washington.
and Mr. Mosher co-sponsored a new bill, H.R. 9058, which was intro-
Dr. Philip Handler, President, National Academy of Sciences.
duced July 30, 1975. The new bill constituted a compromise version
Hon. Elmer B. Staats, Comptroller General of the United States.
between H.R. 4461 and H.R. 7830; the major features of that legisla-
Dr. Roger Revelle, chairman of the board, American Association for
tion, as well as H.R. 10230, follow in the next section of this report.
the Advancement of Science, and director, Center for Population
The Committee held markup sessions in October and ordered re-
Studies, Harvard University.
ported H.R. 10230, which is only slightly revised from H.R. 9058.
Dr. Edward E. David, vice president for research, development and
planning, Gould, Inc.
H. Rept. 595 2
13
12
The remainder of this section presents a summary of the major
ceived detailed examination. Among these were: The form of the new
topics addressed by the witnesses, according to the four major subject
organizational entity in the Executive Office of the President-
areas of H.R. 4461. These are:
whether it should be an office headed by a Director or a Council;
A. A National science policy for the United States;
whether to require Senate confirmation; duties of the new Office
B. Scientific and technological advice in the Executive Office
(budget review; annual reporting requirement; long-range planning
of the President;
functions) ; relationships of the new Office to existing Executive Office
of the President units-OMB, the National Security Council, the Do-
C. Federal administrative organization for certain key instru-
mestic Council; relationships of the new office to Executive Branch
mentalities whose primary mission is scientific or technical re-
departments and agencies (role of science adviser as advocate, and sup-
search and development; and
D. Consolidation of Federal information dissemination and
port of the Office by Executive departments and agencies) ; coordina-
tion and evaluation of Federal R. & D. programs; and authority of
utilization activities.
the President to reorganize his science advisory unit.
A. NATIONAL SCIENCE POLICY FOR THE UNITED STATES
Office (single director) vs. Council (multiple head) type office.-
(TITLE I OF H.R. 4461)
There appeared to be more support among the witnesses for the estab-
lishment of a Council-type advisory office, similar to other existing
There was marked support for the enunciation of a national science
councils in the Executive Office. But many of the witnesses believed
policy for the United States and almost all witnesses approved the
a compromise could be worked out whereby an Office might be estab-
inclusion of such a policy in the bill. The findings and declaration of
lished headed by a Director as proposed in the Administration bill,
principles and procedures for implementation of H.R. 4461 were con-
but provide for the appointment of at least two assistant directors,
sidered sufficiently definitive and yet broad enough to provide guidance
thus creating an organization which could act as a Council and form
without providing undue constraints. Such a policy was characterized
the basis for the creation of a Council form in a subsequent Adminis-
as long overdue. Among the proponents, no one suggested deleting any
tration.
concepts, but several witnesses offered suggestions for amplification of
When he met with the Committee on June 9, 1975, Vice President
the policy statement. Among these were recommendations to amplify
Rockefeller commented that the group which studied the question of
the findings and principles to reflect the importance of basic scientific
return of science advice to the Executive Office had originally proposed
research and the need for various Federal departments and agencies to
that the Office be headed by a Director with up to five Assistant Direc-
support such research; to emphasize the Federal responsibility to en-
tors in particular areas of concern.
courage beneficial technological innovation to foster privately-funded
The opinion was expressed that regardless of the form established,
research and development; to recognize a Federal responsibility in
the President would look to a single individual for science advice.
supporting research and development in areas which by their nature
Senate confirmation of Director and Deputies.-Whether the Direc-
only government can be expected to support; to stress international
tor or Deputy of the new Executive Office science advisory entity
cooperation and costsharing in scientific research and development
should be subject to Senate confirmation was known to be an issue
and the sharing of scientific knowledge with other nations in the inter-
within the Executive Office. The Administration bill was silent on this
ests of international peace and progress; to include a national goal to
point. All the witnesses who addressed this subject supported Senate
develop and utilize professional and technical manpower, including
confirmation, apparently on the premise that Congress should have
their training and education; to promote interaction between Govern-
access to the Science Adviser. One witness while approving Senate
ment and academic institutions and to provide for stability of support
confirmation, recognized the President's prerogative to exert execu-
for the latter.
tive privilege on occasion.
Those witnesses who were not in favor of enunciating a national
science policy at this time argued on the basis of doubts that such a
Requirement for an annual report.-There was mixed reaction to the
model policy statement could be formulated, that a statutory policy
requirement for an annual report in the Committee bill and in earlier
would probably lack flexibility to meet changing requirements, that to
proposals. A number of witnesses recognized that the time and re-
draft a policy acceptable to the Administration might delay approval
sources required to prepare such a report might not be available in
of legislation, and that in any event the new Presidential science ad-
an office of the limited size proposed in the Administration bill. Some
viser should be permitted to have an input into the content of policy.
recommended that this provision should not be included; others that
the report might be prepared outside the Executive Office. One witness
B. SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL ADVICE IN THE EXECUTIVE OFFICE
who did not support the inclusion of Title I, suggested that a substitute
OF THE PRESIDENT (H.R. 7830 AND TITLE II OF H.R. 4461)
for it might be a requirement for an annual statement on science and
technology similar to the President's statement of March 1972.
This subject received major emphasis during the hearings since it
The Administration bill was silent on this requirement but the Vice
represented a basic component of the Committee bill and was the sole
President indicated that in all probability the Science Adviser would
content of the Administration bill. Many aspects of the subject re-
14
15
make an annual estimate, appraisal, and recommendation to the Presi-
Science advisory-Executive Branch departments and agencies rela-
dent and Congress.
tionships.-One main aspect of this very broad subject relates to
Budget review functions of the science advisory office.-The Com-
whether the science adviser should also be an advocate for science per
mittee bill assigned a budget review function to the Secretary of the
se and for the scientific activities of the departments and agencies. On
Department of Research and Technology Operations but provided
the other side of the relationship is the extent of support for its own
that recommendations were to be made to OMB only after consulta-
activities which the new office can expect from Executive Branch de-
tion with the Council of Advisers on Science and Technology. The
partments and agencies.
Administration bill did not mention this specific function among
Science Adviser as a science advocate.-The prevailing sentiment on
those of the proposed OSTP.
this question was that the science adviser cannot also be an advocate
A number of witnesses expressed the opinion that the R & D budget
for science. The proper advocates for science were thought to be the
review function belonged properly within the science advisory office
various Executive departments and agencies with respect to their own
in the Executive Office of the President. Some believed that more
programs, and the National Science Foundation and National Science
important than a requirement to make a comprehensive review of all
Board for science in general. Under these circumstances, the Science
budget proposals, which might be beyond the capability of a small
Adviser's comments on programs in the R. & D. budget should repre-
staff, was the granting of a general budget responsibility which might
sent "selected judgments from the broadest possible national-interest
be exercised selectively to permit concentrating on major issues and
perspective, as free as possible from ties to any particular program or
programs. Such authority it was argued, might enhance the ability of
constituency" in the words of one witness.
the office to become genuinely effective. Two witnesses supported the
A differing view on separating science advice from science advocacy
creation of a new Office of R & D Management within the Executive
was offered by one witness who believed that a strong case could be
Office of the President, with the budget review function a primary
made that the head of any Executive science advisory office could not
role. One expressed the view that the budget review function was
do his job "unless he becomes and remains the advocate within EOP
OMB's and thus should not be made a statutory responsibility of an-
of science and technology."
other office. The consensus was that the science advisory office should
This view is based on a definition of science advocacy which extends
participate in the budget review process with OMB.
beyond merely pushing the support of science for its own sake. This
Long-range planning a function of the science advisory office.-
view considers a major reason for such an office to be that of demon-
Several witnesses viewed long-range planning as a necessary function
strating how science and technology can aid in the solution of broader
of the science advisory office. NAS President Handler discussed the
national problems. In response to the charge that no scientist can be
necessity to carry on long-range planning in conjunction with current
trusted to be objective and unbiased, and that advocacy then equates
program and decision-making, despite the tendency of the latter to
with "special pleading," the view was expressed that experience has
dominate the former.
shown this need not be the case. In this witness's view, "
we have
The current Presidential Science Adviser made two important
already had adequate evidence that men of ability and integrity can
points concerning long-range or "horizon scanning" function: First,
be found for such an advisory role, and that their own 'self-regulating
the Administration proposal contemplated the utilization of outside
mechanisms' plus the feed-back they receive from their colleagues
sources for this function, which would presumably have more time to
regarding White House decisions on science and technology can be
relied on to assure a balanced approach to the various components of
devote to it. The second point was that while an adviser may be aware
of an emerging problem, he has to have "listeners-in the President
the scientific enterprise.
Still another witness recognized the problem of separating "advice"
and also in the Congress." Still another witness expressed the view
that long-range planning should be part of better multi-agency sci-
from "advocacy" as a generic problem at all levels of government and
ence and technology policy planning.
particularly in the White House. To counter the danger of supporting
a particular position, it was suggested that the science advisory office
Relationships of the new science and technology advisory office to
must concentrate on "analysis rather than advocacy with a view to
existing Executive Office of the President.-The witnesses recognized
weighing the costs and benefits of alternatives and presenting
the necessity for intra-Executive Office relationships of any new sci-
ence advisory office. The OMB interface was commonly mentioned and
options. nical staffs of other units of the Executive Office-the OMB, NSC,
It was suggested further that if the scientific and tech-
a few supported the specification of close working relationships with
Domestic Council-were strengthened, they would then be in a better
the National Security Council including possible membership on the
position to evaluate the studies and recommendations of the Science
Council for the head of the science advisory office. The Administration
Adviser.
viewpoint, as expressed by Dr. Stever, was that the adviser on sci-
ence and technology would participate in deliberations of any of the
Support for the science advisory office.-It was suggested that the
units within the Executive Office of the President-National Security
small size of the staff contemplated for the science advisory office will
Council, Domestic Council, or others-and be fully involved whenever
not be able to provide necessary support to the science adviser on the
vast Federal scientific and technical involvement without the active
such activity might be important to the successful performance of his
role.
support of the departments and agencies. Their support and the estab-
16
17
lishment of good working relationships are crucial to the success of the
nesses felt that the proposal should be further studied and, to avoid
office. In particular it was expected that the policy offices of the
delaying action on Title II, this title should be separated from the bill.
National Science Foundation could be called on for ad hoc support.
Dr. Stever, speaking for the Administration, said that he was not
Later information provided by Dr. Stever confirmed this expecta-
convinced that the proposed department was either necessary or
tion. He said that when and if the new science advisory office is estab-
desirable at the present time. He pointed to the likelihood of difficult
lished, many of the functions now performed by the Science and
management and coordination problems in dealing with constituent
Technology Policy Office and Office of Energy R. & D. Policy in the
units of such disparate size and functions as those proposed for the
Foundation could be transferred to the staff of the new office. He said,
new department.
however, that there will still be an "important role" for the Founda-
Points raised by other witnesses included the following:
tion's remaining policy offices in the policy sciences and he expected
While a number questioned whether ERDA should be included in
that the science advisory office would continue to use analyses carried
such a department, at least one witness advocated expanding the
out in the offices of the Foundation's Directorate of Scientific, Tech-
coverage considerably, to comprise a Department of Science, Tech-
nological and International Affairs as inputs to its policy role.
nology, Energy and Materials which would include all units proposed
for the department and several other energy and and materials-related
Ad hoc science advice to support the science advisory office.-There
components as well.
was no discussion in the hearings about the re-establishment of a
Other witnesses suggested that the imposition of a departmental
PSAC-type advisory body. The Administration has relied on the ad
superstructure over independent agencies would result in a down-
hoc mode for soliciting advice from the scientific community. Dr.
grading of these agencies in the Federal hierarchy. Another called
Stever's opinion was "It is an effective way, and I think this may have
attention to Congress' need to maintain direct access to various agen-
been one of the things that has impressed the White House SO that they
cies. Some skepticism was expressed as to how much power and in-
are going to try to use this technique in the new bill."
fluence a secretary of such a department would have when he did not
Coordination and evaluation of Federal R&D programs.-Both
have control of the budgets of the constituent agencies under him-
functions are recognized as responsibilities of a science advisory office
although this stemmed from a misunderstanding of the bill. Some ques-
at the Executive Office level. Dr. Stever noted that the President's sci-
tioned whether certain functions proposed for the department, e.g.,
ence adviser had traditionally served as chairman of the Federal Coun-
both the budget review and statutory review functions, belonged there.
cil for Science and Technology and said "it is intended that the new
One witness did not see how the proposed consolidation would remedy
Director of OSTP would also be appointed to this position." He antic-
the present operating deficiencies of the constituent units.
ipated that continued efforts would be made to make the Federal
A major advantage of the creation of a Department of Research and
Council a more effective interagency coordinating body.
Technology Operations which a number of witnesses mentioned was
Opinion was divided as to whether government-wide evaluation of
that it would provide a focal point for an advocacy role for science
Federal R&D programs should be a responsibility of a science
and technology.
advisory office. Evaluation undertaken by the science advisory office
Further study of Federal science and technology organization and
should, according to some witnesses, be on a limited selective basis to
management.-Several witnesses who expressed favorable reactions
accommodate priority needs, rather than on a fixed schedule and com-
to the concept of further centralization of certain Federal activities,
prehensive scope, which might exceed the capabilities of the office.
still advocated additional study. The President of the National Acad-
Authority for the President to reorganize his science advisory mech-
emy of Sciences offered the assistance of the Academy in conducting
anism.-The limited authority which the Committee bill provides to
a broad study of Federal science and technology organization and
the present or future Presidents to make changes in the organization
management.
and duties of the science advisory office, subject to Congressional ap-
proval, was viewed as a necessary provision. It provides the means for
D. CONSOLIDATION OF FEDERAL INFORMATION DISSEMINATION AND
achieving flexibility to suit the needs of individual Presidents, an
UTILIZATION ACTIVITIES (TITLE IV OF H.R. 4461)
essential aspect of the advisory function.
The Committee's proposal to establish a Science and Technology
C. ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION FOR CERTAIN AGENCIES WHOSE PRI-
Information and Utilization Corporation met with varied response
MARY MISSION Is RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT (TITLE III OF H.R.
from most of the witnesses. The Administration's opposition to the
4461)
proposal was clear from the response of Dr. Stever to a series of
supplemental questions which amplified his earlier testimony.
Department of Research and Technology Operations.-The Com-
Dr. Stever viewed pluralism as one of the strengths of the present
mittee's proposal to create a Department of Research and Techonlogy
information dissemination system. This view was shared by other
Operations as a centralized administrative source to certain Federal
witnesses. He supported his position by expressing the opinion that
agencies (NASA, ERDA, NBS, NSF, NOAA) and the Science and
information gathering and dissemination by the various departments
Technology Information and Utilization Corporation (proposed in
and agencies which was tied into their particular needs and missions
Title IV) was met with both enthusiasm and reservation. Most wit-
was more effective than it would be if performed by a separate cor-
H. Rept. 595 3
19
18
worked poorly. This goes all the way back to World War II when the
poration which would probably concentrate on sales. He doubted that
unleashing of nuclear energy forced political leaders to think seri-
a corporate information conglomerate would improve the dissemina-
tion of scientific and technical information, since three of the func-
ously about science and technology and how to handle it. The tempo
was speeded up, of course, with the advent of Sputnik. As a result
tions to be carried out by the proposed corporation-policy-setting,
of these two spurs, the Congress and the country did begin to get
interagency coordination and national research-are not profitable
a feeling of the need for basic research and the desirability of some
operations and are normally not carried on by commercial firms.
consistent way of handling and supporting both it and applied re-
He testified that there was no detailed long-range planning for
search and development.
scientific and technical information, nor should there be; he felt the
But where the advent of the A-Bomb and of the space adventure
information enterprise was too decentralized to be under a single
clearly demonstrated the need for fundamental research and the train-
master plan.
ing of adequate people to do it, presently our society is being pushed
Nonetheless, Dr. Stever's conclusion that current Federal handling
forcefully into the applied area. We are asking science and tech-
of scientific and technologic information was working reasonably well
nology to help us in our big major crises-primarily those of the
was not documented by any other testimony.
environment, energy and economy.
Points made by other witnesses, who generally felt that the pro-
H.R. 10230 offers a set of science and technology policies for con-
posal of title IV should receive further study, and that this could be
sideration and proposes to relate these to the still broader goals of our
done in conjunction with a more comprehensive study of Federal or-
society in line with the Committee's 1970 report "Towards a National
ganization, included the following. One witness felt that the Com-
Science Policy." The principle proposed is that the expenditure of
mittee bill model was too limited and concerned with passive infor-
public funds should be for definable and accepted public purposes,
mation services while he believed the Government needs to increase
understood and agreed. Various individuals-in hearings and for pub-
its role in public technology innovation. He recommended that a more
lication-have addressed the policy issue. The weight of the testimony
aggressive and dynamic model be established. Another witness ex-
was in favor of setting forth a national science policy, using argu-
pressed the belief that the Nation needs a focal center for scientific
ments such as these:
and technical information but the Corporation as proposed combined
(1) More careful planning and coordination are required at
Federal services with stimulation of non-Governmental services; he
or near the highest government decision-making level.
felt both might suffer as a result.
(2) We are faced with the difficult task of interweaving science
He stated that a real need exists for an information policy board
policy with national social, economic and political policies-
which might be associated with the new science advisory office. But
which would seem to call for a unified coherent strategy.
he recommended deferral of action on unification of information serv-
(3) The preamble of any legislation prepared by the Commit-
ices until policy and coordinating mechanisms are established. A num-
tee should include the basic tenets of a national science policy as
ber of witnesses advocated an increased role for the Federal Council
basic building blocks.
for Science and Technology. Several witnesses advocated an expanded
(4) Structured policy involves an explicit delineation of goals,
role for the NSF Office of Science Information Services and a clarifi-
strategies and priorities which can provide a longer term frame of
cation of its statutory base.
reference for planning than annual budget decisions-which tend
On a final note, it appears that scientific and technical information
to be largely incremental.
issues are as much policy issues as organizational ones. There was
(5) There is a need for a national science policy, but this is a
strong consensus by almost all witnesses on both the importance and
continuing problem, to be worked out by the executive and legisla-
need for further study of this whole question.
tive branches. No single brief policy statement can be good for all
time, unless expressed in the very broadest terms. Policy must be
RATIONALE FOR THE BILL
specific and evolve as time goes by.
TITLE I
(6) If Federal science policy is to deal with the contribution
that science has made and can make to our economic well being,
Title I is a statement of national science policy-but is not an in-
the concept of science policy must embrace not only public invest-
vention of the Committee. It represents an analysis of much testi-
ments in science but also the national environment for using sci-
mony and research on the subject. The main issue has not been the
entific and engineering capabilities for economic purposes.
Title's substance but whether or not Congress should attempt such
(7) Lacking a national science policy statement, we tend to
a policy statement. Some people have thought it feasible; others have
operate under a set of independent and occasionally contradictory
not.
policies. Such a statement, even if incomplete could serve a useful
The government has gone through decades of ad hoc situations,
purpose by providing a sense of direction for federal actions re-
arrangements regarding science and technology which have not been
lating to science.
based on any firm policy but have responded merely to the current
(8) The role of science and technology in our society and the
crisis. The result has been a marked inconsistency in utility and effect.
role of the federal and state governments in their support are
In some cases things have worked well; at other times they have
changing SO rapidly that it may not be possible to spell out a
20
21
science policy in detail. However, it is important for both the Con-
ant to the President for Science and Technology. Dr. James R. Killian,
gress and the President to enunciate a general statement indicat-
Jr. was appointed to the post. Also, ODM's Science Advisory Com-
ing the responsibility of the federal government to support science
mittee was reconstituted as the President's Science Advisory Commit-
and technology for the good of the people and the advancement
tee (PSAC).
of the nation.
In time, Congress became dissatified with these steps and pushed
(9) In public policy terms, we have no across-the-board ap-
for a more formal arrangement. In mid-1962 President Kennedy
proach to leveraging science and technology; we go at it in a
established an Office of Science and Technology (OST) and his Sci-
disassembled way, in a reactive manner rather than a strategic
ence Adviser then wore several "hats," including Science Adviser to
the President and Director of OST in the Executive Office of the
The manner. minority view was represented essentially by the following
President.
Most agree that the role of presidential science adviser was strong
arguments:
(1) There is no particular advantage in the establishment of
and influential from Roosevelt through Kennedy. Beginning with
national science policy, per se. We should have a national science
President Johnson and continuing with President Nixon, it was
policy, which at any one time will be that sum total of many in-
"downhill" to January 1973.
At that time President Nixon announced Reorganization Plan No. 1
dividual policies.
(2) There is no need for a statement of policy. Science policy
of 1973 which abolished OST and PSAC, and transferred the function
is a rather fuzzy term, limited to a general declaration of faith
of Science Adviser to the Director of the National Science Founda-
in benefits of technological progress. The policy itself consists of
tion as an additional duty. Hearings were held by the Government
a great many specific decisions of widely differing content.
Operations Committees, but the prevailing mood seemed different
from that of 1961-1962 when President Kennedy was more or less
TITLE II
persuaded to establish OST. The view in 1973 seemed to be, "If the
President doesn't want a science advisory capability in the Executive
Title II would make available to the President a new organizational
Office, there is no point in making him keep one."
entity to assist in using science and technology in national decision-
This Committee's inquiries have produced very few outside the Ad-
making-an Office of Science and Technology Policy, whose Director
ministration (in '73) who really approved the present setup. Virtually
also serves as science adviser. The basic premise is not to insist upon
all of the Committee's other testimony indicated a conviction that the
a particular style of scientific support for the President, but to provide
dual role of the Science Adviser and the Director of the National
a way of mobilizing expertise in the President's behalf. The President
Science Foundation was not tenable. It is particularly noteworthy that
can use the Director of the Office, and such Assistant Directors as are
Dr. McElroy, who had preceded Dr. Stever in the post of Director
appointed, in whatever manner he chooses. In any case, the Office
of the Science Foundation, was quite emphatic on this point. Since
would speak for the best public use and understanding of science and
Dr. McElroy is the only former Director to have held that post during
technology and not as an advocate for science and technology per se.
NSF's modern history, his views carried quite a bit of weight.
Numerous witnesses have contended that as the Federal role and
Almost no one has wanted to reestablish OST in its former format.
support structure for R&D has grown, so has grown the need for better
But there have been many organizational suggestions. These include,
awareness and attention at the highest levels of government. Increas-
for example, the one-man personal adviser to the President; the Coun-
ingly complex scientific and technological issues confront the Presi-
cil of Advisers with no one Presidential Science Adviser; a Council of
dent. Off and on since the beginning of World War II, the nation has
Advisers whose chairman also serves as the President's Science Ad-
been debating the issue of how best to incorporate science and tech-
viser; ad hoc advisory panels, and SO on. Undoubtedly one of the sug-
nology into national decision-making.
gestions which has had the biggest impact is that of the National
World War II led to widespread use of science and technology by
Academy of Sciences' Killian Committee to which all of the former
our allies, our enemies and ourselves. For the first time, a President
Presidential Science Advisers appeared to subscribe, with the ex-
had what amounted to a "science adviser"-Dr. Vannevar Bush, who
ception of Dr. David. He proposed an Office of Research and Engi-
marshalled the U.S. scientific and technological effort and worked
neering Management within the Executive Office, not at the level of a
closely with President Roosevelt.
department, but at a level of protocol equal to that of OMB.
Dr. John Steelman was designated by President Truman to head a
It was about this point in the 1974 hearings that it became clear
Scientific Research Board in the Executive Office of the President.
the Committee was really dealing with several different issues. It was
Close personally to the President, Steelman also acted as the Presi-
not just dealing with advice, it was also dealing with research and
dent's liaison with the scientific community.
development management including the handling and use of science
From 1952 until late 1957, science advice for President Eisenhower
and technology information. It further became apparent that while
was provided by a Science Advisory Committee through the Direc-
these were part of the same picture they probably warranted sepa-
tor of the Office of Defense Mobilization. With the launch of Sputnik
in October 1957, science and technology came once again to center
rate consideration and treatment. The original Teague-Mosher bill
stage and President Eisenhower created the position of Special Assist-
(H.R. 4461) did this.
22
23
It was also a critical recognition SO far as the structure of H.R.
A New Department?
10230 is concerned.
If at all, why a new cabinet-level department?
Hence the substance of Title II. That Title encompasses the duties
This is where the managerial part of the legislative equation seemed
and functions of the proposed Office of Science and Technology Policy
to come in-and where the role of advocate for science and technology
and its Director. The number of statutory Assistants may run from
is encountered.
0 to 4 depending on the President's desire.
All witnesses who appeared before the Committee, in general,
Among the important features of this Title are (1) evaluating the
advised against combining the role of science advice with advocacy for
quality and effectiveness of the Federal R&D effort; (2) advising the
science and technology per se. Everyone seemed to feel that these roles
President with regard to scientific and technological considerations in
were incompatible and should be separate. The original Teague-
all major fields including national security; (3) advising and assisting
Mosher bill undertook the separation through a Department of Re-
in the development of Federal R&D budgets; (4) developing criteria
search and Technology Operations where those Federal agencies
for optimum levels of Federal R&D support in accordance with the
whose missions are mainly the performance of research and develop-
principles established in Title I.
ment would receive some coordination and also be provided with a
It is also important to note the reorganization feature which would
champion possessing political clout exceeding that which any of them
permit the President to reorganize the advisory setup within his own
has independently. It was also there that major new scientific and
Executive Office, unless vetoed by both houses of Congress. However,
technological endeavors which came along in the future could find a
the President could not simply abolish the advisory setup and replace
home without the necessity for Congress to create a new agency on a
it with nothing. He could alter it, but he would be obliged to establish
crash basis-such as occurred in the case of both environment and
something in the place of whatever advisory arrangements were in
energy within the past few years. When such needs arose, the activity
existence.
could be assigned to the new Department until such time as it was
TITLE III
clearly demonstrated that a need for an independent agency or de-
partment existed. Finally, it was through this device that the number
This Title establishes a 24-month Federal Science and Technology
of agencies clamoring for the President's ear could be somewhat
Survey Committee within the Executive Office of the President which
reduced with a consequent reduction of the demands on his time and
is charged with the duty of examining the total Federal science and
attention.
technology effort "including missions, goals, personnel, funding, orga-
Aside from the foregoing, the Department's operations would
nization, facilities and activities in general."
primarily have been those of a staff nature where Federal research
When completed, the Survey Committee's final report must be trans-
and development statutes, regulations and budgets would be reviewed
mitted to the Congress by the President, together with his recom-
across the board. Here, too, the main technology assessment function
mendations based thereon.
in the Executive branch would be performed. Here, for the first time,
There are three cardinal reasons for this Title in its present form.
one entity would be charged with an overview of the entire Federal
First, a comprehensive survey of the Federal science and technology
Research and Development budget and with making recommendations
establishment, its functions and needs, has not been made by any duly
concerning it to OMB.
chartered group since the Steelman Report of 1947-as previously
The Department was not intended to disturb existing organizational
noted. The events of the intervening 30 years assuredly warrant such
structures of any of the agencies to be placed within it. It would not
a study.
disturb the so-called pluralistic system of research support. It would
Second, at this point in time the Congress does not have sufficient
not change the existing direct line of contact or communication be-
information or an adequate data base on which to model such further
tween other departments and agencies and OMB. It was not a Depart-
reforms of scientific policies, plans or organization as may be needed.
ment of Science and Technology in the traditional sense of such pro-
The Survey Committee's findings should provide major assistance-
posals made in the past.
although they will in no way preclude the conduct of similar Con-
But why bother with this area (which has been in-and-out of
gressional studies nor obviate the need for them.
favor for several decades) in the first place?
Third, it is essential that the issues, questions and problems which
For one thing, the Presidential Science Adviser, Dr. Hornig, in his
the original Teague-Mosher bill (H.R. 4461) sought to address in its
remarks to the 1968 annual meeting of the American Association for
Titles III and IV remain a focus of active study. Hence, this Title of
the Advancement of Science, specifically suggested that a depart-
H.R. 10230 provides for the continuation and enlargement of such
mental arrangement of the type in the original Teague-Mosher bill
study on the part of the Executive branch. This Committee and, doubt-
deserved a close scrutiny. In 1970 the then existing Subcommittee on
less, other committees of the House and Senate, will assure appro-
Science, Research and Development made a specific recommendation
priate legislative input to the overall study, also on a continuing basis.
for a National Institutes of Research and Advanced Studies. While
Among the issues seriously considered in H.R. 4461, and which need
this was directed primarily to research and education in their pure
further in-depth evaluation are (a) a new departmental institution for
forms, it was a step in the direction of H.R. 4461.
Science and Technology, and (b) an improved entity for handling
In the full Committee's 1974 hearings, recommendations for this
Federally sponsored scientific and technological information.
sort of an organization were made by the former Director of the
25
24
Bureau of Standards and present chief scientist of IBM, Dr. Brans-
ticular interest in and experience with the handling of science
information.
comb. It was also recommended by Dr. Brewster Denny of the Uni-
versity of Washington, who, as much as anyone, was responsible for
Those representatives came from such institutions as the Smithso-
the creation of OST through his staff work with the Senate Interior
nian, COSATI (see below), the Ford Foundation, the State Depart-
Committee in the early '60's. Also at those hearings, Dr. Patrick
ment, the Federal Communications Commission, Bell Telephone
Haggerty, former PSAC member and head of Texas Instruments,
Laboratories, McGraw Hill, the Bureau of the Budget, the Academy of
delineated the "staff" function idea at Cabinet level. While Dr. Hag-
Sciences, and the President's Science Adviser. Out of this came a pro-
gerty personally preferred a Council of National Development whose
posal to the Committee from the Smithsonian Institution for an 18-
chairman would serve as technological adviser to the President, and
month Council on Communications, designed to report to the Com-
while he questioned the wisdom of mixing staff functions with line
mittee at the end of that time with recommendations for legislation to
functions, he did endorse the concept of a Cabinet-level staff operation
coordinate, unify and promulgate science information regulations for
in this area.
all the Federal government's activities in that area.
One function which the Department would have had, the overview
The proposal fell through for lack of funding, but in 1970, follow-
of the total Federal Research and Development budget, is similar to
ing extensive science policy hearings, the SRD Subcommittee issued a
what Dr. David proposed for his Office of Research and Engineering
report with specific recommendations including those for an improved
Management. Actually, Dr. David would have gone further than the
system of science information exchange. Among other things, the
Teague-Mosher bill in that his proposal would have been binding on
report recommended that the Federal government formulate "a real-
OMB whereas the recommendations from the Secretary of RTO in
time management information system" which should be "inaugurated
the Teague-Mosher bill were not. It is of some interest that during the
and utilized by all Federal agencies engaged in research. It was also
past several years, in Canada, the Ministry of State for Science and
recommended that with regard to science information systems and
Technology has been drastically upgraded and has been given this
techniques "central responsibility be assigned to the Smithsonian
same function of budget review vis-a-vis the Canadian Treasury
Institution with essential backup from OST's Committee on Scientific
Board (the equivalent of OMB). It also seems significant that science
and Technical Information." (COSATI)
policy authorities Harvey Brooks (Harvard) and Eugene Skolnikoff
In 1972, this Committee's concern was rekindled by a report of the
(M.I.T.) have emphasized the need for some Executive agency to be
Comptroller General that effectiveness of the Smithsonian's Science
charged with technology assessment functions-and also that they
Information Exchange was hampered by a lack of complete, current
approve the idea of an agency or department where other agencies or
research information. It was explicitly pointed out in the GAO report
departments could go to have research and development done for
that the various departments and agencies of the Federal government
them when needed-as many now do on a limited basis in conjunction
most involved with Research and Development were not in agreement
with the National Bureau of Standards. These were specifically desig-
and were, in fact, frequently at odds over methods of handling and
nated functions of the Department as envisioned in H.R. 4461.
utilizing scientific and technological information.
Precedents for the sort of amalgamation of agencies contained in
While this issue was not a major one discussed during the full Com-
that bill are not difficult to find. Probably the most obvious one is the
mittee's hearings in 1973-74, its shadow was nonetheless present. Staff
Department of Defense which absorbed the Army, the Navy and the
inquiry indicated that a lack of rapport between the agencies and be-
Air Force without changing their mission or their administrative
tween the three basic Federal science information systems-the Smith-
structure. Operationally, the three services, each of which retains its
sonian's Science Information Exchange (SIE), the Commerce De-
own Secretary, function pretty much independently-though they are,
partment's National Technical Information Service (NTIS) and the
of course, subject to decisions at the Defense level with regard to
Foundation's Office of Science Information Service (OSIS)-con-
differences over mission, budget, etc. More specifically, however, the
tinued to exist.
relatively loose language employed in the Teague-Mosher bill was
The philosophy of the original Teague-Mosher bill was essentially
patterned after the consolidation which took place in 1947 when the
simple: without the means of getting scientific and technological in-
Housing and Home Finance Agency was formed. At that time more
formation available, known and used, the government's entire Re-
than 15 existing agencies were brought together under one roof, most
search and Development effort could not help but be badly attenuated.
of which continued to operate in an independent manner for nearly 20
It was felt that the system set up in that bill to deal with scientific
years before being absorbed by HUD.
and technological information, or something akin to it, would help.
The bill would have merged the three key agencies into a new Science
Scientific and Technological Information
Information & Utilization Corporation with a single executive head
Along with possible organizational reform, information systems are
and a governing Board. The Corporation, in turn, would have become
considered to be extremely important. The Committee began giving
a part of the proposed new Department of Research and Technology
serious attention to the matter in 1967 and '68 when a series of meetings
Operations for administrative purposes.
was held between senior members of the Committee and key repre-
The corporate form was suggested on grounds that that (1) at some
sentatives of major institutions around the country which had a par-
point it may be desirable to make such an effort self-sustaining or par-
26
27
tially so-or possibly a joint government-industry endeavor: and (2)
2. Government to ensure transfer of technology information to
scientific and technological information is now conceded to be one of
users, and facilitate close coupling of industry with academia in
the nation's leading commodities-bought, traded and bargained for-
the application of scientific findings;
and may thus appropriately be handled by a corporate structure.
3. Useful but non-commercial technologies to be encouraged;
4. Cooperative scientific and technological relationships with
States, local governments, and the private sectors;
5. Determination of proper level of effort in science and tech-
The foregoing are factors which, the Committee believes, should be
nology;
carefully considered by the Survey Committee as established in Title
6. Frequent and systematic information to the Congress about
III of H.R. 10230.
the condition of the national scientific and technological effort and
its resources.
SECTIONAL ANALYSIS OF THE BILL
(c) Procedures for affecting the Declared Policy require-
1. The functional use of Federal procurement policy;
(A) PROVISIONS IN BRIEF
2. Explicit criteria for projects in science and technology war-
ranting Federal support;
TITLE I-NATIONAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
3. Such criteria to include quality of research, stability of insti-
tutions, timeliness of results, educational encouragement, and cul-
Findings
tural advances;
SEC. 101. (a) Findings of Congress that (1) national goals (eco-
4. Federal patent policies based on uniform principles stressing
nomic, security, resource use, functioning of Government and society)
incentives for innovation and procedures to assure full beneficial
require employment of science and technology; and (2) knowledge
use to serve the public;
about the relationship of science and technology to national and inter-
5. A balance between cooperation and competition in research
national events is essential to national decisionmaking and long-range
and development by private industry under antitrust regulation;
national planning.
6. Closer relationships among scientific disciplines;
(b) Goals for science and technology include:
7. Efficiency in the management of Federal laboratories;
1. Support of U.S. diplomatic goals;
8. The use of science and technology to support State and local
2. Efficient use of resources for economic opportunity, stability,
government goals;
and appropriate growth;
9. Formal recognition of important scientific and technological
3. National security;
contributions to public welfare;
4. Improved health and medical care;
10. Support for useful science and avoidance of injurious con-
5. Improved environment, housing, and urban and rural
sequences of technological applications;
systems.
11. Procedures for full exchange of technological data and find-
Declaration of Policy
ings among Federal agencies.
SEC. 102. (a) Principles of a national science policy include:
TITLE II-OFFICE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
1. Continuing formulation and implementation of national
strategies;
Short Title
2. Economic growth balanced against preservation of benign
environment and frugal use of resources;
SEC. 201. Citation as "Presidential Science and Technology Advi-
3. Balancing U.S. domestic and diplomatic objectives in an in-
sory Organization Act of 1975."
terdependent world;
Establishment of Office
4. Education and training in science and technology;
SEC. 202. Establishes Office of Science and Technology Policy in the
5. Establishment of a sound national base for science and tech-
Executive Office of the President.
nology including cooperation among all sectors, strengthening of
institutional capabilities, elimination of barriers to initiative and
Director; Assistant Directors
innovation, improved management of information, establishment
SEC. 203. Director of the Office, presidential appointee, with advice
of technical standards, and wider public understanding;
and consent of the Senate; not more than four Assistant Directors,
6. Periodic review and adjustment in the national policy for
presidential appointees, responsible to the Director.
science and technology.
Functions
(b) Implementation of Declared Policy requires:
SEC. 204. (a) Director to be the President's chief policy adviser and
1. Central policy planning elements, including one available
assistant on scientific and technological matters.
to the President as an executive office staff. to help Federal
(b) Director, in addition to such other duties as the President pre-
agencies identify tasks, mobilize scientific and technological re-
scribes, shall (1) advise on scientific and technological aspects of the
sources, secure funding. anticipate future problems, and review
economy, national security, health, foreign relations, the environment,
national science and technology policy;
28
29
and resource management; (2) advise on Federal effort in science and
and technological budget planning, and (11) long range planning for
technology; (3) participate fully in the process of formulating the
application of science and technology to major national problems.
Federal budget for science and technology; (4) provide leadership in
(b) (1) The Committee to report on these matters to the President;
and coordination of Federal research and development; (5) advise the
(2) The President to transmit the report to Congress within 60 days,
President on statutes and regulations affecting research and develop-
including his recommendations as appropriate.
ment; (6) provide criteria for Federal support for scientific and tech-
Termination
nological activities to enhance the national capability to achieve per-
SEC. 303. Life of Committee 24 months from date of first meeting;
tinent objectives; (7) advise on international cooperation in science
final report to be made during this period.
and technology; (8) identify future national goals for science and
technology; (9) report on significant trends in science and technology;
TITLE IV-MISCELLANEOUS
(10) review changing needs for national science policy; (11) main-
tain liaison with National Science Board, and executive agencies, and
1
Authorization-Repeal-Amendment
develop appropriate working relationships with National Security
SEC. 401. Appropriations Authorized.
Council and Domestic Council.
SEC. 402. Conforming organizational provision.
Personnel
SEC. 403. Conforming amendment.
SEC. 205. Director to appoint and fix compensation for required
personnel.
(B) EXPLANATORY NOTES
Consultant and Other Services
TITLE I-NATIONAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
SEC. 206. Director authorized to engage consultants and contract for
studies.
The logic of this title encompasses, first, an assertion of the impor-
tance of science and technology to advance and support the national
Other Federal Agencies
welfare; second, a definition of the national goals for which science and
SEC. 207. Authorization of support for Office from other Federal
technology are relevant; third, a declaration of policy principles for
agencies.
science and technology supportive of the national goals; fourth, an
Reorganization
enumeration of implementing principles; and fifth, a somewhat more
SEC. 208. (a) President may submit plans to reorganize the Office
detailed catalog of implementing procedures.
as appropriate until Jan. 3, 1982; (b) plan to become effective unless
Throughout the development of this title, it was often noted by
rejected by both Houses of Congress within 60 days; (c) and (d)
Members of the Committee that the achievement of a completely satis-
technical provisions.
factory and permanent policy for science and technology was not
feasible. But it was recognized that out of experience with a first pol-
TITLE III-THE FEDERAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY SURVEY COMMITTEE
icy statement it should be possible to refine and perfect the policy by
successive amendment as the need became evident. Moreover, changes
Organization
in the national condition in the course of time can be expected to gen-
SEC. 301. (a) (1) Establishes said Committee of five to twelve mem-
erate a need for responsive future changes in the national policy for
bers appointed by the President, with Director of Office serving as
science and technology.
chairman; (2) to have high professional qualifications, analytical
What is presented in Title I is, accordingly, more than a provisional
expertise, and balanced representation; (3) standard remuneration
statement of national policy.
of committee members.
It is to be followed as a matter of law, subject to change by the
(b) Staffing arrangements.
processes of law. But the intention is to make clear that some degree of
(c) Federal agencies may supply information and loan personnel to
flexibility should be maintained, and that as the need for change is
the Committee.
recommended by those responsible, Congress will need to be responsive
to such needs.
Duties and functions
The Committee has made an effort to assure that the policy em-
SEC. 302. (a) Committee to survey total Federal science and tech-
bodied in this title is as comprehensive, effective, and durable as
nology effort to determine needs for (1) organization including insti-
possible. The text has been subjected to extensive scrutiny by the scien-
tutional realinement, (2) improvement of information systems, (3)
tific and technological communities, by representatives of public and
technology assessment, (4) technology innovation, transfer, and use,
business groups, as well as by Members of Congress and the Office of
(5) Federal-State, and Federal-industry cooperation, (6) Federal
the President. Changes have been made in response to suggestions
regulations and procedures retarding innovation, (7) broader base for
from all these sources. It is the belief of the Committee that a sub-
support of basic research, (8) integrating scientific and technological
stantial consensus has been achieved.
factors into national policy, (9) technical manpower, (10) scientific
30
31
Sec. 101. Findings of Congress
ture, and keeping the policy (as well as the strategy) responsive to
This section has two parts. The first part identifies ways in which the
changing U.S. needs. An elaboration of the six principles follows:
national welfare is dependent upon the products of science and tech-
1. National efforts are to be directed to the formulation and imple-
nology; the second part identifies six broad national goals to which
mentation of a set of strategies for the use of science and technology to
science and technology should contribute.
achieve national goals. The process is to take into account the views of
In calling upon science and technology to support the general wel-
States, municipalities and representative public groups.
fare, security, resource utilization, and other social functions, it is
The plural of "strategy" is intended to convey the concept that no
recognized that programs need to be vigorous and selective.
one grand strategy is appropriate, but that different strategies are
At the same time, the impacts of science and technology upon
required for different objectives; these concurrent strategies need to
national and international events and trends require assessment and
be harmonized in their planning and execution. In addition, each
long-range future planning. Participation of those technically knowl-
strategy requires its own comprehensive planing with respect to
edgeable, as well as those politically and diplomatically sensitive, is
scope, level, direction, and extent of scientific and technological effort.
necessary to shape the consequences of science upon national and
Finally, the conduct of each strategy requires the continuous appraisal
international events and trends.
of the role of science and technology for its support.
The six broad national goals to which science and technology are
2. Science and technology are to be purposefully employed in a sys-
called upon to contribute are (1) those of foreign policy, (2) a healthy
tematic effort to enhance and strengthen the national economy. But
national economy, (3) the special needs of food and energy, (4) the
it is recognized that economic growth carries with it possible liabili-
national security in its broadest sense, (5) the national health, and (6)
ties that science and technology should also be mobilized to minimize:
a satisfying total environment, natural and man-made, urban and
i.e., the unnecessary or wasteful use of resources and the despoliation
rural.
of the environment. Economic growth, frugal resource use, and en-
The first of these goals implies the purposeful use of basic science as
vironmental quality are thus related as goals which science and tech-
a bridge to the rest of the world through the shared satisfaction in
nology should be employed to reach.
scientific discovery. It also takes account of the growing role of tech-
3. Science and technology are to be used to support both domestic
nology in shaping the ways in which nations and their peoples interact
and foreign policy needs of the United States. In particular, the ex-
with others in an increasingly interdependent world.
port of U.S. technology is to be recognized as beneficial to developing
The goal of a healthy national economy is coupled with the require-
countries, but a proper subject for exchange with other developed
ment that resources be frugally used, that essential industrial mate-
countries. Moreover, as the rest of the world advances technologically,
rials be managed to balance present needs against future needs, and
U.S. exports can be expected to encounter increasing competition in
that the controversy over growth versus non-growth be resolved
world trade. Thus, a complex balance needs to be struck that involves
through the achievement of a consensus on the extent and directions
export and import of technology by the United States and the manage-
of growth most acceptable to American society as a whole.
ment of science and technology on a selective basis to enhance U.S.
The goals of adequate food and energy, national security, and health
industrial productivity in industries most compatible with the long-
and medical care require no special elaboration. They are long-stand-
range economic health of the United States as well as world economic
ing and non-controversial. Moreover, the roles of science and technol-
stability.
ogy have long been paramount in their support.
4. Support is required for the institutions which train U.S. scien-
With respect to the environmental goal, it is recognized that science
tists and engineers. Opportunity for trained scientists and engineers to
and technology have much to contribute, and that their contributions
contribute to national goals is recognized as an incentive to their re-
have not yet reached a level of parity with efforts in other directions.
cruitment for training. Also recognized is the need to provide means
Housing and urban and rural systems call for new definitions of
by which scientists and engineers in overcrowded or obsolescent disci-
national problems requiring for their solution systems not yet con-
plines or fields can adjust their careers to changed national needs by
ceived. The statement of this national goal in the context of science
further education or retraining.
and technology is a planned incentive to encourage initiatives in these
5. It is necessary to develop a strong national foundation for science
directions.
and technology. There are five essential components of this: first, the
Sec. 102. Declaration of Policy
cooperation and participation of Federal, State, and local govern-
Subsection (a) of this section is the core of the proposed national
ments and of the public and private sectors; second, the encourage-
policy for science and technology. It is a declaration calling for adher-
ment of pluralism in science and technology-in terms of diversity
ence to these principles: a comprehensive set of strategies for science
of interests and directions of creativity, as well as of institutions par-
and technology, fostering the national economy, balancing U.S. do-
ticipating in the process of innovation; third, the effective manage-
mestic and foreign policy needs, maintaining the requisite technical
ment and use of scientific and technological information; fourth, in
manpower, sustaining a solid scientific and technological infrastruc-
the fields of science and technology, standards and methods of testing
32
33
are indispensable, and are a legitimate part of the total enterprise;
and fifth, public awareness, understanding, appreciation, and ac-
the encouragement of cooperative working relations among these dif-
ceptance of the constructive role of science and technology are basic to
ferent parts of the system. Characteristically, the kind of information
the stability and soundness of total national activity in areas of sci-
addressed here is reviewed or "refereed" to certify its technical sound-
ness and accuracy.
ence and technology.
6. It is necessary to recognize that world and national conditions
3. Among the categories of science and technology that the Federal
that shape U.S. goals and needs will change in the course of time. It is
Government should deem "appropriate" for its support are those in-
volving large costs, high risks, long times from initiation to results,
also necessary to recognize that the structure, directions of competence,
and very large mobilization of technical resources. Some but not nec-
and degrees of relevance of parts of the scientific and technological re-
essarily all of these criteria need to be satisfied. The one overriding
sources of the United States are subject to change over the years.
consideration is that such efforts, to merit this support, should be
Accordingly, the national policy for science and technology will re-
"expected to provide results beneficial to the public." It is also impor-
quire periodic review and adjustment to assure its continued appropri-
ateness in dealing with the needs of the future. This review and adjust-
tant that there be evidence that the private sector is unable or unwill-
ing to support such efforts.
ment are an explicit charge upon the Federal Government.
Subsection (b) establishes six modes of implementation. They in-
4. The intent of this clause is not to set up jurisdictional barriers in
the allocation of science and technology programs to various levels
volve: central planning and coordination; information management;
of government. Instead it prescribes a requirement that the locus of
publicly supported science and technology; division of responsi-
control be appropriate to the primary interest, while calling for co-
bility with the States, local governments, and private entities; alloca-
tion of public effort to science and technology in relation to other
operative relationships among Federal, State, and local governments
and between the public and private sectors.
competing activities; and the assurance of information to Congress
5. Science and technology contribute importantly to many different
about the totality of the science and technology effort.
national goals and programs. Basic science underlies much of the na-
An elaboration of these provisions follows:
tional capability in industrial technology. It is in the national interest
1. It is recognized that in at least five functional areas the imple-
to assure that an adequate national effort is sustained in science and
mentation of the national policy for science and technology requires
technology, balanced against other important and competing require-
central planning, coordination, direction, and representation-(a)
ments for available resources to meet national needs. The intent of
the identification of public problems and objectives to which the con-
this paragraph is to call for orderly means of analysis and assessment
tributions or impacts of science and technology are relevant; (b) the
by which these competing programs are funded and supported to
unified mobilization of scientific and technological resources in sup-
meet public needs.
port of essential national programs; (c) participation in the budg-
6. The roles of the Congress in the formulation of national science
etary and appropriation process to secure funding support for pro-
and technology policy, in the appropriation of funds to support spe-
grams for which scientific and technological resources are to be mobi-
cific programs and activities, and in the monitoring of these policies,
lized; (d) identifying future program directions requiring such mobi-
programs, and activities, require that Congress be regularly informed
lization, and preparing for them; and (e) review of the adequacy
of them. Initially it was the thought of the Committee that an annual
and effectiveness of national policy for science and technology, in
report on the national condition of science and technology should be
order to recommend to the Congress any needed changes in Title I
mandatory. However, it was concluded that reporting should not be
of this Act.
2. Particular attention is directed to the vital role of the information
determined by the calendar but rather by the conditions that war-
ranted the informing of the Congress on the need for action. In the
function as the underpinning of science and technology, and to facili-
interest of avoiding unnecessary reports and manpower drain, the
tate the effective use of their products. The specifications of a sound
term "regularly" is interpreted here to mean "as required, but with
national program of technical information management are that (a)
reasonable frequency."
those who need technical information should be able to secure it
Subsection (c) delineates procedures to help implement the policy.
promptly; (b) the information itself needs to be systematically col-
These deal with Federal procurement policy, program criteria, insti-
lected, reviewed for reliability, stored, assessed for modernity, and
tutional criteria, patent policy, antitrust policy, interdiscipline ap-
suitably "packaged" or prepared for delivery to the user. Many differ-
proach; Federal laboratory management, goals of State and local
ent arrangements currently are available for carrying out these func-
governments, recognition of scientific and technological achievement,
tions or parts of them. The particular thrust of this clause is to recog-
technology assessment, and data exchange among Federal agencies.
nize the importance of the entire arrangement as a national technical
The rationale behind these procedures is:
information system, to define its goals and purposes, and to acknowl-
1. It is to be recognized that the Federal Government is a major
edge the Federal Government's responsibility for participating in it.
purchaser of goods and services. In this role, the Government can
Such participation is defined as including: the generation and supply
exert a positive and constructive influence on the market place and
of information from Federal programs of science and technology, the
on U.S. suppliers. It is proposed that this influence be extended to the
funding or support of various parts of the total national system, and
encouragement of good conservation practice (of materials, energy,
34
35
and dollars), to good environmental practice, and to enhance product
7. The clause on management of laboratory equipment and facilities
performance. 2. The criteria on which action is based to determine the direction
is to call attention not only to the opportunities for economy but also
to the possibilities for stimulating research in valuable directions.
and extent of Federal support for research and development have
8. The provision that science and technology be used to support
raised persistent questions. The intent of this clause is to seek further
State and local government goals is to generate program activities in
effort to refine the criteria. Among the suggestions offered are: making
the Federal Government to maintain contact with technical people at
the criteria explicit, the use of cost-effective principles and defining
other levels of government, to encourage joint planning and informa-
the nature of the problems being attacked. Problem criteria would in-
tion exchanges, and to help define explicit goals which science and
clude: time to fulfillment, geographic spread, and economic diffusion.
technology might further.
3. A related question is that of the institutional criteria to be applied.
9. Recognition of outstanding achievements of science and tech-
In this area it is proposed that, for science and technology generally,
nology has always been an element of national and international prac-
the criteria should be: quality of research, stability of funding, and
tice. This clause, however, is to distinguish those whose contributions
timeliness of results. In the particular area of basic research, three
particularly serve the public interest. The execution of this function
criteria to be applied are the meeting of specialized educational needs,
requires not only the identification of outstanding achievements in
the generation of a base of scientific knowledge for use in future needed
science and technology but also their assessment in terms of public
technological development, and the creation of cultural values.
utility.
4. The management of the U.S. patent system to encourage the
10. This clause proposes the test of social merit as a gauge of Fed-
progress of science and useful arts has been the subject of repeated
eral support for particular programs of science and technology. More-
study and analysis. The policy proposed in this paragraph is to move
over, in assessing the probable value of any particular program it is
toward uniformity in the principles of patent management. The scope
also essential that possible injurious consequences also be assessed
of the paragraph encompasses two areas of invention: patentable ideas
since-to the extent that injurious consequences cannot be dimin-
in general and those developed under Federally funded programs.
ished-they detract from the social merit of the program.
For both areas it is proposed that a balance be sought between (a) the
11. The generation of scientific and technological information by
preservation of incentives for technological innovation, and (b) as-
the mission-oriented agencies of the Federal Government tend to flow
sured use of beneficial technology to serve the public.
readily to their constituents or clients among the public but less readily
5. The national concern over competition versus monopoly has led to
to other potential users in other Federal agencies. This clause requires
the creation of a considerable body of administrative law in the field
that each Federal agency generating such information make a positive
of antitrust enforcement. Monopolies are sometimes charged with
effort to get it to other appropriate agencies, and that each agency
restraining not only trade but also innovation. On the other hand, the
needing such information make a positive effort to secure it from
enforcement of competition when it is extended to the field of indus-
agencies possessing it.
trial research and development, may serve not only to reduce competi-
tion but also to retard innovation. In particular, some fields of in-
TITLE II-OFFICE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
quiry (pollution abatement, metallurgical testing and alloy develop-
ment, recovery of value from industrial wastes, and the like) can be
Sec. 201. Short Title.
beneficial to an entire industry and to the public as well. It is proposed
Sec. 202. Establishment of Office.
in this clause that within the sphere of antitrust rationale there should
The establishment of the Office of Science and Technology Policy
be room for competing firms to cooperate in certain kinds of industrial
represents a compromise between the Committee's original Proposal in
research and development. One desirable outcome could be the estab-
lishment of ground rules for acceptable kinds and procedures of such
H.R. 4461 for a Council of Advisers on Science and Technology and
cooperation by competing firms.
the Administration's proposal in H.R. 7830 for an Office as designated
above. It is intended that the Office would function much the same,
6. The intent of the "interdisciplinary" clause is to encourage a
closer and more constructive relationship among the various scientific
whether the new organization is called an "Office" or a "Council."
disciplines. It is sometimes alleged that in academic institutions there
Sec. 203. Director-Assistant Directors.
is a tendency for the practitioners of different disciplines to remain
The Administration's Bill H.R. 7830 called for a Director of the
apart, while in mission-oriented agencies of government, and in indus-
Office and a Deputy Director-appointed by the President, but not
trial organizations that serve such agencies, it is recognized that the
requiring confirmation by the Senate. The Committee devised an ar-
practitioners of many disciplines need to work together to solve com-
rangement which calls for the appointment of a Director of the Office
plex problems of modern technological systems. Encouragement in
to be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent
academic institutions of closer relationships among the disciplines
of the Senate. Provision is made for the appointment by the President
not only contributes to problem solving abilities, but provides a valu-
of up to four Assistant Directors. The intent is to allow maximum
able source of cross-fertilization useful to the disciplines themselves.
flexibility to the President in organizing the Office, but to insure that
Congress plays a significant role in the selection of the Director.
36
37
Further, it is intended that the Director and such Assistant Directors
time for the Administration which takes office in 1981 to assess the
as may be appointed will be available to Congress from time to time
Office of Science and Technology Policy, along with other components
as witnesses to provide advice and counsel on matters of concern to the
of the Executive Office, before the authority to reorganize expires or is
Congress and which are related to the functions assigned in Title II.
renewed.
Sec. 204. Functions
TITLE II--THE FEDERAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY SURVEY COMMITTEE
In setting forth the functions of the Director, substantial responsi-
bilities were added to those proposed in the Administration's bill,
Secs. 301 and 302. Organization and Functions
H.R. 7830. The overall intent is for the Director to be the President's
Titles III and IV of the Committee's original Bill, H.R. 4461, pro-
chief policy adviser and assistant with respect to scientific and tech-
posed the establishment, respectively, of a new Department of Re-
nological matters affecting national decisions and the national interest.
search and Technology Operations and a Science and Technology In-
A broad range of responsibilities have been incorporated in the legis-
formation and Utilization Corporation. A consensus did not develop
lation as a means of taking into account the profound impact of sci-
on these proposed organizations, and it became clear that more study
ence and technology on society, and the interrelations of scientific,
was required on many important issues in such areas as organizational
technological, economic, social, political, and institutional factors.
reform, scientific and technological information, use and analysis of
It is expected that the Office be involved on a continuing basis with
science and technology, and Federal-State as well as Federal-industry
a broad range of domestic, foreign, and national security problems,
liaison and cooperation in science and technology.
both near-term and long range, and that it will work closely with
To conduct studies on such subjects and others, Title III provides
other organizations of the Executive Office of the President. The Office
for a Federal Science and Technology Survey Committee to be estab-
is intended to give particular attention to a function which has not
lished as part of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, or in
always had high national priority the identification and assessment
such other manner as the President may direct. Alternatives consid-
of emerging and future areas where science and technology can be used
ered and discarded included a Presidential Commission, a Joint Pres-
effectively in achieving national goals and objectives. While a broad
idential-Congressional Commission, a Congressional Commission, and
range of responsibilities has been assigned to the Office, it is designed
a Survey Committee established separate and apart from the Office of
in a way to permit maximum flexibility for using its capabilities to
Science and Technology Policy.
meet the needs of the President in carrying out his responsibilities.
Essentially, the alternatives not selected were dropped for such
Sec. 205. Personnel
reasons as expense, logistics complexity, high demands on the time of
The intent of this section is to give the Director a wide range of
over-extended Members of Congress, possible conflict with the new
choice in the selection and appointment of personnel to carry out the
Office of Science and Technology Policy, and probable redundancy
functions assigned to the Office.
with some of the functions assigned to the new Policy Office.
The intent of the specific construction of Title III is to provide for
Sec. 206. Services
a thorough examination and extended study of a number of issues
It is not expected that the Office will necessarily be staffed to handle
using a relatively simple, streamlined organization structure. Con-
all of its functions internally; therefore, provision is made in this
gressional influence will be evident as follows:
section for the Director to enter into contracts and other arrangements
The legislation calls for the selection of Survey Committee mem-
for studies, analyses, and other assistance through public agencies and
bers who are exceptionally qualified, distinguished individuals and
with private persons, organizations or institutions which would aid in
who come from a variety of fields; a broad variety of subjects are as-
the performance of those duties prescribed in Section 204 or others
signed for the Survey Committee to study, examine, and analyze in
which may be directed by the President.
the overall context of Federal science and technology effort; and the
Sec. 207. Agency Assistance
Survey Committee's report is to be transmitted to the Congress as
Again, as in Section 206, it is not intended that the Office be staffed
written, together with such comments, observations and recommenda-
permanently to carry out all of its responsibilities, including those
tions as the President deems appropriate. To the objection raised by
involving temporary undertakings; therefore, provision is made for
some that the report may reflect only what the President wants it to
the Director to call upon Federal agencies for necessary assistance,
say, the response lies (a) in the selection of the individuals referred to
with the consent of the agencies involved.
earlier, and (b) in the fact that the Congress is not precluded from
nor expected to refrain from its own parallel inquiries in developing
Sec. 208. Reorganization
a base of information for further action.
The purpose of this section is to provide the President with continu-
Sec. 303.-Termination
ing flexibility to modify the Office as times and circumstances may
change; yet, Congress is given a strong voice in any such recom-
The purpose of allowing 24 months for the life of the Survey Com-
mended changes. The reason for requiring each House to act in dis-
mittee from its first organizational meeting is to permit adequate time
favor of any reorganization plans submitted is to provide for thorough
to accomplish, its broad mandate under the bill.
debate and Congressional consensus. The 1982 date is designed to allow
38
39
COMMITTEE ACTIONS
a single cabinet-level department; placing those agencies primarily or
solely concerned with fuels, energy and materials, within a single
TITLE I
cabinet-level department; or a combination of the two.
SEC. 101 (a) .-This paragraph deals with the influence of large
An important reason for this is that the two most specific and
and complex scientific fáctors upon the course of national and inter-
thoroughly prepared plans for an R&D department to surface in mod-
national events which requires appropriate provision for incorporat-
ern times have been an outgrowth of this legislation. One was the title
ing scientific and technological knowledge in the national decision-
in the original Teague-Mosher bill (H.R. 4461) establishing a Depart-
making process. The paragraph was amended to emphasize the intent
ment of Research and Technology Operations; the other was the plan
that long-range inclusive planning as well as more immediate pro-
offered to the committee during hearings by Rep. McCormack of
gram development should be part of the national decision-making
Washington for a Department of Science, Technology, Energy and
Materials.
process.
SEC. 102 (c) -This paragraph deals with Federal patent policies.
Sec. (b) (1) .-This paragraph calls for the submission of a re-
It was amended slightly SO as to bring the language into conformance
port by the Federal Science and Technology Survey Committee to the
with the existing body of patent law.
President upon completion of its assignment. The paragraph was
SEC. 102 (c) (5).-This paragraph deals with antitrust regulation.
amended slightly to insure that the Committee report would include
It was amended slightly SO as to bring the language into conformance
recommendations as well as findings and conclusions.
with the existing body of antitrust law.
COMMITTEE VIEWS
TITLE II
Scientific and Technological Information Dissemination and
SEC. 204 (b) (5).-The subject of this paragraph is periodic reviews
Utilization
of Federal statutes and administrative regulations affecting research
Sec. 302 of Title III sets forth the duties and functions of the Fed-
and development activities. It was amended to clarify the intent which
eral Science and Technology Survey Committee. As discussed in the
is to minimize interference with desirable technological innovation.
Explanatory Notes section for Title III, a consensus did not develop on
SEC. 204 (b) (6).-The subject of this paragraph is criteria for de-
a proposed Science and Technology Information and Utilization
termining scientific and technological activities warranting Federal
Corporation. However, the Committee expressed its view that the sub-
support. It was re-worded to achieve editorial clarity.
ject of scientific and technological information dissemination and util-
SEC. 208 (b) .-This paragraph permitted action by the President
ization should have a high priority in the activities of the Federal
and the Congress on any plan to reorganize the new Office submitted
Science and Technology Survey Committee.
before January 3, 1980. The paragraph was amended to change the
Survey Committee Reports
date to 1982 SO that the reorganization authority would not expire at
the beginning of a new Administration.
Although Sections 302 and 303 of Title III specify the procedures
for submitting a final report to the Congress of the Federal Science
and Technology Survey Committee, it is urged that appropriate in-
TITLE III
terim reports be considered. The Committee believes that interim re-
SEC. 301 (a) (1).-This paragraph provides for the establishment
ports on certain subjects may prove timely and useful to the Congress
of a Federal Science and Technology Survey Committee as part of the
as well as to the Administration.
Office of Science and Technology Policy. It called for appointment of
Membership of the Survey Committee
the Committee members bv the President not more than 90 days after
The conviction was expressed by the Committee that membership
the confirmation of the Director of the Office of Science and Tech-
on the Federal Science and Technology Survey Committee should
nology Policy. The paragraph was amended to allow the appoint-
ment period to begin from the time the Director of the Office of Science
include working scientists and engineers along with individuals more
and Technology Policy actually assumed office since often there is a
closely linked with administration and general public affairs. The
Committee believes that the Survey Committee should not be domi-
gan between confirmation and assumption of office.
SEC. 302.-This section provides for the duties and functions of the
nated by any one group, and that careful attention should be devoted
Federal Science and Technology Survey Committee and specifies
to achieving a proper balance among persons chosen to serve.
certain areas to be examined.
Further illustration may be found in the necessity to consider issues
Sec. (a) .-Identifies the subject of "organizational reform."
of science information policy along with more general policy issues—
The paragraph was amended to include more direct guidelines as to
and thus the parallel desirability of having the expertise of the science-
the possible types of institutional realignment which should be con-
information industry represented on the Committee.
sidered as part of the Survey Committee's activities. Specifically, the
Staffing and Priorities for the OSTP
Survey Committee is asked to consider several possibilities as follows:
At the time the Administration submitted its Bill (H.R. 7830),
placing Federal agencies whose missions are primarily or solely de-
a staffing requirement of about 15 was estimated for the Office of
voted to scientific and technological research and development within
40
41
Science and Technology Policy. The legislation now recommended by
ESTIMATE AND COMPARISON BY THE CONGRESSIONAL
the Committee includes a number of additional functions under Title
BUDGET OFFICE
II. Therefore, concern has been expressed that the original staffing
estimate will be inadequate to cope with the broad range of important
Pursuant to section 403 of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974,
functions assigned to the Office of Science and Technology Policy.
the following estimate and comparison prepared by the Director of
It is recognized that provision is made for the Office to draw upon
the Congressional Budget Office has been received:
outside consultants, other Federal agencies and especially the Na-
No report from the Office had been received as of the date of this
tional Science Foundation and the Domestic Council. However, the
report.
Committee requests that a report be made to the Congress on the
OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES
entire personnel-functions relationship at the end of the first year of
The requirements of Rule XI, Clause 2(1) (3), and Rule X, Clause
operations by the Office.
(b) (1), of the Rules of the House of Representatives would not
Relationship of OSTP With Office of Telecommunications Policy
appear to be directly applicable in connection with this bill since it
The Committee notes that other committees of the Congress have
does not deal with existing agencies or programs. However, it should
been examining the role of telecommunications as an industry in the
be noted that the Committee has worked on the matter contained in
United States. It has been concluded that telecommunications has be-
this bill since early 1973. It has held two sets of background and
come a very important element in the economic sector and will become
investigative hearings, in 1973 and 1974, and another set of hearings
increasingly so in the future.
on the legislation here proposed, on June 10, 11, 17, 19 and 23 of 1975.
Therefore, while Section 204(b) (11) under Title II does not specify
that the Office of Science and Technology Policy will maintain liaison
OVERSIGHT FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS BY
with the Office of Telecommunications Policy, maintaining such liai-
THE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
son is the intent of that part of the clause which reads "all councils
and offices of the Executive Office of the President". Clearly, research
Pursuant to Rule X, Clause 2(b) (2) of the Rules of the House of
and development matters related to telecommunications should be an
Representatives, the following findings and recommendations made by
important concern of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, as
the Committee on Government Operations have been received
well as the reverse situation.
No statement of findings and recommendations was received as of
the date of this report.
Dual Congressional Responsibility
It is recognized that several sections of H.R. 10230 involve matters
EFFECT OF LEGISLATION ON INFLATION
that are of appropriate jurisdictional interest and concern to the Com-
mittee on Government Operations. These are Section 208, which pro-
In accordance with Rule XI, Clause 2(1) (4), of the Rules of the
vides limited authority for the President to reorganize the new Office
House of Representatives this legislation is assessed as having no infla-
of Science and Technology Policy subject to Congressional approval,
tionary effects on prices and costs in the national economy.
and Section 402, which repeals parts of Reorganization Plan No. 2 of
Neither the new Office of Science and Technology Policy nor the
1962 and of Reorganization Plan No. 1 of 1973.
temporary Survey Committee, of themselves, are of a magnitude to
The Committee wishes to make clear that it understands that any
exert any economic influence. Meanwhile, it is hoped and expected
reorganization plans which may be forwarded to Congress under Sec-
that their operations will eventually result in improved and more
tion 208 in the future will come under the jurisdiction of the Committee
efficient utilization of technology with a consequent improvement in
on Government Operations in accordance with the Rules of the House
national economic stability.
of Representatives. It is further understood that such general over-
sight responsibilities relative to the Office of Science and Technology
FEDERAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE ACT
Policy as reside in the House also fall within the purview of the
Committee on Government Operations.
Section (b) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (P.L. 92-463)
With regard to Section 402, the repeals involved refer only to parts
requires that Congressional committees indicate if legislation they are
of former reorganization plans which have already been superseded
sponsoring creates a new "advisory committee" and, if so, whether the
by subsequent plans or made obsolete by this Act. The section was
operations of such committee could be performed by one or more
included in the bill at the request of the Administration and is solely
agencies or by an advisory committee already in existence, or by en-
for purposes of legislative conformance and clarity.
larging the mandate of an existing advisory committee. Legislation in-
It is the Committee's intent to bring this bill to the House floor under
volving any such new committee must meet certain requirements de-
an open rule; it is not the intent of the Committee to object to appro-
fined in that section.
priate amendments regarding the foregoing provisions if offered by
This Committee does not consider the Federal Science and Tech-
the leadership of the Committee on Government Operations.
nology Survey Committee established in Title III to come within the
meaning of the aforementioned statute. The Survey Committee's pri-
43
42
mary function is one of fact-finding and delineation of possible needs
Creation of an Office of Science and Technology Policy will provide
and operational options rather than advice. However, it is also this
an important new source of advice on scientific and technical aspects
of issues requiring attention at the highest levels of Government. I
Committee's view that all of the requirements of section 5 (b) of that
look forward to early final approval of this bill by the House of Rep-
Act have been met with respect to the Survey Committee.
resentatives and the Senate.
Sincerely,
COST AND BUDGET DATA
GERALD R. FORD.
The bill authorizes such sums as may be necessary to carry out its
provisions. On the basis of information provided by the Administra-
CHANGES IN EXISTING LAW MADE BY THE BILL, AS
tion as to the expected level of operation of the new Office, as well as
REPORTED
data developed independently by the Committee, it is estimated that
annual costs will be approximately $2.1 million for the Office of
In compliance with clause 3 of Rule XIII of the Rules of the House
Science and Technology Policy (Title II) and $1 million for the two-
of Representatives, changes in existing law made by the bill, as re-
year activities of the Federal Science and Technology Survey Com-
ported, are shown as follows (existing law proposed to be omitted is
mittee (Title III).
enclosed in black brackets, new matter is printed in italics, existing
The original personnel estimate of the Administration for the Office
law in which no change is proposed is shown in roman) :
was from 10 to 15 professionals. With the additional functions added
by the committee, however, it is estimated that the personnel figure
REORGANIZATION PLAN No. 2 OF 1962
is likely to reach from 20 to 30 eventually, with supporting staff of
Prepared by the President and transmitted to the Senate and the
10 to 15.
House of Representatives in Congress assembled, March 29, 1962,
In accordance with Sec. 252(b) of the Legislative Reorganization
pursuant to the provisions of the Reorganization Act of 1949, 63 Stat.
Act of 1970, the Committee notes that longer range operations of the
203, as amended.
Office will depend largely upon Executive initiatives as modified by the
determinations of the Appropriations Committees of both Houses. If
CERTAIN SCIENCE AGENCIES AND FUNCTIONS
planned programs remain unchanged and a constant level of effort is
expended, there should be no change in costs other than those oc-
PART I-OFFICE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
casioned by inflation or pay increases.
[SECTION 1. Office of Science and Technology. There is hereby
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS
established in the Executive Office of the President the Office of
Science and Technology, hereafter in this Part referred to as the
A quorum being present, the Committee unanimously ordered the
Office.
bill favorably reported.
[SEC. 2. Director and deputy. (a) There shall be at the head of the
Office the Director of the Office of Science and Technology, hereafter
ADMINISTRATION VIEWS
in this Part referred to as the Director. The Director shall be ap-
pointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the
The following communication from the President sets out the Ad-
Senate and shall receive compensation at the rate of $22,500 per
ministration's views on H.R. 9058, which is substantially the same as
annum.
H.R. 10230.
[(b) There shall be in the Office a Deputy Director of the Office of
THE WHITE HOUSE,
Science and Technology, who shall be appointed by the President
Washington, October 8, 1975.
by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and receive com-
Hon. OLIN E. TEAGUE,
pensation at the rate of $20,500 per annum. The Deputy Director
Chairman, Committee on Science and Technology, House of Repre-
shall perform such functions as the Director may from time to time
sentatives, Washington, D.C.
prescribe and shall act as Director during the absence or disability
DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN Thank you for the prompt attention you have
of the Director or in the event of vacancy in the office of Director.
given to my proposal for creating an Office of Science and Technology
[(c) No person shall while holding office as Director or Deputy
Policy in the Executive Office of the President.
Director engage in any other business, vocation, or employment.
Members of my staff and I have reviewed the September 16th ver-
[SEC. 3. Transfer and performance of functions. (a) There are
sion of the substitute bill, H.R. 9058, developed by you and Congress-
hereby transferred from the National Science Foundation to the
man Mosher. This bill, while somewhat different from the one I sub-
Director:
mitted on June 6, is acceptable and I will support it if your Committee
[(1) So much of the functions conferred upon the Foundation by
and the full House approve it essentially as it now stands. I also want
the provisions of section (a) (1) of the National Science Founda-
to thank you and Congressman Mosher for your leadership on this
tion Act of 1950 (42 U.S.C. 1862(a) (1)) as will enable the Director
matter and for the cooperative manner in which our staffs have been
to advise and assist the President in achieving coordinated Federal
able to work on the bill.
44
45
policies for the promotion of basic research and education in the
sciences.
provided for individuals in grade GS-15 of the General Schedule
[(2) The functions conferred upon the Foundation by that part of
under section 5332 of such title, as may be necessary to provide for the
section 3 (a) (6) of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950
performance of such duties as may be prescribed by the Board in con-
(42 U.S.C. 1862 (a) (6)) which reads as follows: "to evaluate scientific
nection with the exercise of its powers and functions under this Act.
research programs undertaken by agencies of the Federal Govern-
Each appointment under this subsection shall be subject to the same
ment."
security requirements as those required for personnel of the Founda-
[(b) In carrying out the functions transferred by the provisions
tion appointed under section 15(a).
of section (a) of this reorganization plan, the Director shall assist
[(i)] (h) The Board is authorized to establish such special commis-
the President as he may request with respect to the coordination of
sions as it may from time to time deem necessary for the purposes of
this Act.
Federal scientific and technological functions and agencies.
(c) The Director may from time to time make such provisions
[(j)] (i) The Board is also authorized to appoint from among its
as he deems appropriate authorizing the performance of any of his
members such committees as it deems necessary, and to assign to com-
functions by any other officer, or by any employee or agency, of the
mittees SO appointed such survey and advisory functions as the Board
Office.
deems appropriate to assist it in exercising its powers and functions
[SEC. 4. Personnel. The Director may appoint employees necessary
under this Act.
for the work of the Office under the classified civil service and fix
their compensation in accordance with the classification laws.]
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
SECTION 2 OF REORGANIZATION PLAN No. 1 OF 1973
[SEC. 2. Transfer of functions to the Director, National Science
Foundation.-There are hereby transferred to the Director of the Na-
tional Science Foundation all functions vested by law in the Office of
Science and Technology or the Director or Deputy Director of the Of-
fice of Science and Technology.]
SECTION 4 OF THE NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION AcT OF 1950
NATIONAL SCIENCE BOARD
SEC. 4. (a)
*
*
*
*
*
[(g) The Board shall render an annual report to the President,
for submission on or before the 31st day of January of each year to
the Congress, on the status and health of science and its various dis-
ciplines. Such report shall include an assessment of such matters as
national scientific resources and trained manpower, progress in selected
areas of basic scientific research, and an indication of those aspects
of such progress which might be applied to the needs of American
society. The report may include such recommendations as the Board
may deem timely and appropriate.]
[(h)] (g) The Board may, with the concurrence of a majority of its
members, permit the appointment of a staff consisting of not more
than five professional staff members and such clerical staff members
as may be necessary. Such staff shall be appointed by the Director and
assigned at the direction of the Board. The professional members of
such staff may be appointed without regard to the provisions of title
5, United States Code, governing appointments in the competitive
service, and the provisions of chapter 51 of such title relating to classi-
fication, and compensated at a rate not exceeding the appropriate rate
ADDITIONAL VIEWS OF HON. GEORGE E. BROWN, JR.
The "National Science and Technology Policy and Organization
Act of 1975" is an important step in the evolution of science and tech-
nology in the United States. The history of this Act serves to under-
score the importance of this legislation, and those who have been in-
volved with the drafting, hearings, briefings and negotiations on this
Act deserve praise for their diligent efforts. The purpose of these addi-
tional views is not to detract from this accomplishment, nor disagree
with the thrust of this legislation. Rather, I wish to emphasize one
aspect of the "National Science and Technology Policy and Organiza-
tion Act of 1975" to eliminate any ambiguity about the Congressional
intent. That aspect is the implicit planning function of the newly-
created Office of Science and Technology Policy.
Section 101 (a) of this Act states:
The Congress, recognizing the profound impact of science
and technology on society, and the interrelations of scientific,
technological, economic, social, political, and institutional
factors, hereby finds and declares:
(1) That the general welfare, the security, the economic
growth and stability of the Nation, the conservation and
efficient utilization of its natural and human resources,
and the effective functioning of government and society
require vigorous, perceptive support and employment of
science and technology in achieving national objectives;
and
(2) That the many large and complex scientific factors
which increasingly influence the course of national and
international events require appropriate provision, in-
volving long-range, inclusive planning as well as more
immediate program development, to incorporate scientific
and technological knowledge in the national decision-
making process.
In addition, Section 102 (b) (1) states: "The Federal Government
should maintain central policy planning elements in the executive
branch
What is not explicitly assigned is the responsibility to do these plan-
ning functions. This omission was noted by the Committee, and is the
main reason for adding to the duties and functions of the Federal
Science and Technology Survey Committee, which is created by this
Act, the requirement to survey, examine and analyze such areas as
"organizational reform" (Section 302 (a) (1)), "improved systems for
planning and analysis of the overall Federal science and technology
budget" (Section 302(a) (10)) ; and "the conduct of long-range study,
analysis and planning in regard to the application of science and
technology (11)). to major national problems or concerns" (Section 302 (a)
(47)
48
49
This legislation clearly addresses the need for improving the Fed-
to the Office of Science and Technology Policy, which is created by this
eral planning and analysis function for both immediate and long-term
Act, instead of waiting for the Federal Science and Technology Survey
problems. What may not be as obvious to the casual reader of this Act
Committee to report back on this subject. Indeed, the AAAS "White
is that failure by the Federal government in these areas could com-
Paper" warned that "the danger to be guarded against is that long-
prise its "Achilles' heel." Thus the development of the planning func-
range policy planning may be driven out by demands for quick re-
tion may well be crucial to the entire process by which national goals
sponse staff work for the White House." In our budget authorization
are supposed to be achieved.
process this spring, we saw this problem over and over again. The
The report of the National Academy of Science's ad hoc Committee
ERDA budget was presented as a fragmented set of programs with-
on Science and Technology "Science and Technology in Presidential
out true priorities, and only the Congressionally required plan sub-
Policymaking" stated that:
mitted in June has given us any chance of assessing the whole pro-
The committee has been especially struck by the lack of
gram. Similarly, as my own Subcommittee on Environment and the
capability for long-range policy research and analysis, which
Atmosphere exercised our Committee's new authorization jurisdic-
would examine continuously the longer run implications of
tion of the EPA research and development budget for the first time,
current budget decisions and other policies and would seek to
we discovered not only that there was little planning which would help
anticipate problems that will face the President and the Con-
us assess the relative needs and responsibilities of EPA and ERDA
gress in future years.-Only within the National Security
with respect to energy related environmental R&D, but that there
Council is the potential of policy research and analysis sys-
was also almost no long-range assessment of a research strategy within
tematically exploited; elsewhere it is to be found at the level
EPA itself, or a division of labor between EPA and the many other
of the mission departments and agencies. Its value at that
agencies active in environmental R&D. (The Subcommittee did put an
level should not be discounted, but neither should its potential
annual plan requirement into the authorization bill as finally passed
at higher levels be ignored.
by the House.) The annual reviews of NASA and NSF programs also
Similarly, the American Association for the Advancement of Sci-
grapple continuously with the problems of under-utilized facilities
ence's "White Paper," "Organization for Science and Technology
and disjointed programs, whose importance is almost impossible to
in the Executive Branch" emphasized that:
judge budgetarily in the absence of a unifying long-term framework.
Because of this experience with other agencies, and the hopes of
The strategic planning dimension requires deliberate at-
all of us who have worked on H.R. 10230 that through it we will
tempts to develop assessments of the quality and productivity
succeed in sloving these problems, I would like to suggest some lan-
of science and technology and to develop long-range goals for
guage that the Survey Committee might consider as an addition to the
them in relation to the position of the United States at home
functions of the Office of Science and Technology Policy.
and in the world. The importance of this role is obvious if
science and technology are to be approached in investment
Suggested Addition to Section 204, "Functions of the Director of the
terms rather than simply as year-to-year work programs.
Office of Science and Technology Policy"
These important Academy and AAAS documents on needs in science
Section 204(c)
policy represented a consensus which included some of the most ex-
perienced and thoughtful members of the academic, industrial and
The Director shall further advise and assist the President in the
governmental technological communities. Moreover, from within the
preparation of a Long-Range Science and Technology Planning Re-
administration, Russell Train has written about the need for long-
port (hereinafter referred to as the "Planning Report") which shall
range planning related to problems of energy, food, resources supply,
be submitted by the President to the Congress on the first January 1st
population and uncontrolled growth:
which occurs more than 12 months after the enactment of this Act,
with an annual update of the Planning Report to be submitted on
To begin to deal with these problems-indeed, even to begin
January 1st of subsequent years. The Planning Report shall make use
to ask the right questions, we should develop an effective
of the information developed as a result of actions specified in para-
institution in the federal government for long-range analysis
graphs 6, 8, 9, and 10 of subsection (b) of this section, and be an exten-
of the problems-we [are]-almost totally lacking such a ca-
pability-an appalling lack in the nation with as big a stake
shall include:
sion of the actions required in those paragraphs. The Planning Report
in the future as the United States. What is important and
(1) an assessment of the most probable technological problems
urgent is that they [offices of long-range analysis] be estab-
of the following 5, 10, 25 and 50 years, as judged from plausible
lished as competent and continuing institutions whose cum-
scenarios of economic, demographic, social, resource supply, and
ulative efforts will enable us, as a nation, to come to grips with
environmental developments in those time interests. The Planning
the kinds of problems that will increasingly confront us in a
Report shall be prepared consistently and in coordination with
new age of scarcity and interdependence.
long-range planning and projections of the Council of Economic
Though this kind of long-range strategic policy planning may seem
Advisors, the Council on Environmental Quality, the Domestic
perfectly obvious, it is perhaps a mistake not to mandate this function
Council, the National Security Council, the Office of Management
50
and Budget, and other components of the Executive Office, and
shall make maximum feasible use of the forecasting and other
resources of those offices. The Planning Report shall be prepared
in consultation with regional, state and local government planning
authorities, and in coordination with plans and projections of the
private economic sector.
(2) a determination of priorities in research anad development
efforts consistent with the assessment of technological problems
of paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(3) a suggested division of labor within the federal research
and development establishment, and between it and state, local
and private research institutions, aimed at most effectively deal-
ing with the problems and priorities of paragraphs (1) and (2)
of this subsection.
(4) an assessment of the levels of effort needed to deal with the
problems, priorities, and division of labor determined in para-
graphs (1), (2) and (3) of this subsection. These levels should
be suggested in detail for the various components of the federal
research and development program, but their relationship to pro-
jected levels of effort in state and local government and private
sector programs shall also be indicated.
(5) an assessment, prepared cooperatively with regional, state,
and local jurisdictions, of technological needs on a local level,
along with plans to promote local efforts to mobilize technological
effort for a few distinct but conceivable alternative scenarios to
those considered most likely in reaching the assessment of para-
graph (1) of this subsection.
GEORGE E. BROWN, Jr.
94TH CONGRESS
SENATE
REPORT
2d Session
No. 94-765
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
APRIL 26, 1976.-Ordered to be printed
Mr. KENNEDY, from the committee of conference,
submitted the following
CONFERENCE REPORT
[To accompany H.R. 10230]
The committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two
Houses on the amendment of the Senate to the bill (H.R. 10230)
to establish a science and technology policy for the United States,
to provide for scientific and technological advice and assistance to
the President, to provide a comprehensive survey of ways and means
for improving the Federal effort in scientific research and information
handling, and in the use thereof, to amend the National Science Foun-
dation Act of 1950, and for other purposes, having met, after full
and free conference, have agreed to recommend and do recommend
to their respective Houses as follows:
That the House recede from its disagreement to the amendment
of the Senate and agree to the same with an amendment as follows:
In lieu of the matter proposed to be inserted by the Senate amend-
ment insert the following:
That this Act may be cited as the "National Science and Technology
Policy, Organization, and Priorities Act of 1976".
TITLE I-NATIONAL SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND
TECHNOLOGY POLICY AND PRIORITIES
FINDINGS
SEC. 101. (a) The Congress, recognizing the profound impact of
science and technology on society, and the interrelations of scientific,
technological, economic, social, political, and institutional factors,
hereby finds and declares that—
(1) the general welfare, the security, the economic health and
stability of the Nation, the conservation and efficient utilization
of its natural and human resources, and the effective functioning
of government and society require vigorous, perceptive support
57-010 0
2
3
and employment of science and technology in achieving national
(10) promoting the conservation and efficient utilization of
objectives;
the Nation's natural and human resources;
(2) the many large and complex scientific and technological
(11) improving the Nation's housing, transportation, and com-
factors which increasingly influence the course of national and
munication systems, and assuring the provision of effective public
international events require appropriate provision, involving long-
services throughout urban, suburban, and rural areas;
range, inclusive planning as well as more immediate program de-
(12) eliminating air and water pollution, and unnecessary,
velopment, to incorporate scientific and technological knowledge
unhealthful, or ineffective drugs and food additives; and
in the national decisionmaking process;
(13) advancing the exploration and peaceful uses of outer
(3) the scientific and technological capabilities of the United
space.
States, when properly fostered, applied, and directed, can effec-
DECLARATION OF POLICY
tively assist in improving the quality of life, in anticipating and
resolving critical and emerging international, national, and local
Sec. 102. (a) PRINCIPLES.-In view of the foregoing, the Congress
problems, in strengthening the Nation's international economic
declares that the United States shall adhere to a national policy for
position, and in furthering its foreign policy objectives;
science and technology which includes the following principles:
(4) Federal funding for science and technology represents an
(1) The continuing development and implementation of strate-
investment in the future which is indispensable to sustained na-
gies for determining and achieving the appropriate scope, level,
tional progress and human betterment, and there should be a con-
direction, and extent of scientific and technological efforts based
tinuing national investment in science, engineering, and technol-
upon a continuous appraisal of the role of science and technology
ogy which is commensurate with national needs and opportunities
in achieving goals and formulating policies of the United States,
and the prevalent economic situation;
and reflecting the views of State and local governments and repre-
(5) the manpower pool of scientists, engineers, and technicians,
sentative public groups.
constitutes an invaluable national resource which should be utilized
(2) The enlistment of science and technology to foster a healthy
to the fullest extent possible; and
economy in which the directions of growth and innovation are
(6) the Nation's capabilities for technology assessment and for
compatible with the prudent and frugal use of resources and with
technological planning and policy formulation must be strength-
the preservation of a benign environment.
ened at both Federal and State levels.
(3) The conduct of science and technology operations 80 as to
(b) As a consequence, the Congress finds and declares that science
serve domestic needs while promoting foreign policy objectives.
and technology should contribute to the following priority goals
(4) The recruitment, education, training, retraining, and bene-
without being limited thereto:
ficial use of adequate numbers of scientists, engineers, and tech-
(1) fostering leadership in the quest for international peace
nologists, and the promotion by the Federal Government of the
and progress toward human freedom, dignity, and well-being
effective and efficient utilization in the national interest of the
by enlarging the contributions of American scientists and engi-
Nation's human resources in science, engineering, and technology.
neers to the knowledge of man and his universe, by making
(5) The development and maintenance of a solid base for science
discoveries of basic science widely available at home and abroad,
and technology in the United States, including: (4) strong par-
and by utilizing technology in support of United States national
ticipation of and cooperative relationships with State and local
and foreign policy goals;
governments and the private sector; (B) the maintenance and
(2) increasing the efficient use of essential materials and prod-
strengthening of diversified scientific and technological capabili-
ucts, and generally contributing to economic opportunity, stabil-
ties in government, industry, and the universities, and the encour-
ity, and appropriate growth;
agement of independent initiatives based on such capabilities, to-
(3) assuring an adequate supply of food, materials. and energy
gether with elimination of needless barriers to scientific and
for the Nation's needs;
technological innovation; (C) effective management and dis-
(4) contributing to the national security;
semination of scientific and technological information; (D)
(5) improving the quality of health care available to all resi-
establishment of essential scientific, technical and industrial
dents of the United States;
standards and measurement and test methods; and (E) promo-
(6) preserving, fostering, and restoring a healthful and esthetic
tion of increased public understanding of science and technology.
natural environment;
(6) The recognition that, as changing circumstances require
(7) providing for the protection of the oceans and coastal
periodic revision and adaptation of title I of this Act, the Fed-
zones, and the polar regions, and the efficient utilization of their
eral Government is responsible for identifying and interpreting
resources;
the changes in those circumstances as they occur, and for effecting
(8) strengthening the economy and promoting full employ-
subsequent changes in title I as appropriate.
ment through useful scientific and technological innovations;
(b) IMPLEMENTATION.-To implement the policy enuniciated in
(9) increasing the quality of educational opportunities avail-
subsection (a) of this section, the Congress declares that:
able to all residents of the United States;
(1) The Federal Government should maintain central policy
planning elements in the executive branch which assist Federal
4
5
agencies in (A) identifying public problems and objectives, (B)
and appropriated funds; to assure quality environment; and to
mobilizing scientific and technological resources for essential na-
enhance product performance.
tional programs, (C) securing appropriate funding for programs
(2) Explicit criteria, including cost-benefit principles where
so identified, (D) anticipating future concerns to which science
practicable, should be developed to identify the kinds of applied
and technology can contribute and devising strategies for the
research and technology programs that are appropriate for Fed-
conduct of scrence and technology for such purposes, (E) review-
eral funding support and to determine the extent of such support.
ing systematically Federal science policy and programs and rec-
Particular attention should be given to scientific and technologi-
ommending legislative amendment thereof when needed. Such
cal problems and opportunities offering promise of social advan-
elements should include an advisory mechanism within the Execu-
tage that are so long range, geographically widespread, or eco-
tive Office of the President so that the Chief Executive may have
nomically diffused that the Federal Government constitutes the
available independent, expert judgment and assistance on policy
appropriate source for undertaking their support.
matters which require accurate assessments of the complex scien-
(3) Federal promotion of science and technology should empha-
tific and technological features involved.
size quality of research, recognize the singular importance of sta-
(2) It is a responsibility of the Federal Government to pro-
bility in scientific and technological institutions, and for urgent
mote prompt, effective, reliable, and systematic transfer of scien-
tasks, seek to assure timeliness of results. With particular refer-
tific and technological information by such appropriate methods
ence to Federal support for basic research, funds should be allo-
as programs conducted by nongovernmental organizations, in-
cated to encourage education in needed disciplines, to provide a
cluding industrial groups and technical societies. In particular,
base of scientific knowledge from which future essential techno-
it is recognized as a responsibility of the Federal Government
logical development can be launched, and to add to the cultural
not only to coordinate and unify its own science and technology
heritage of the Nation.
information systems, but to facilitate the close coupling of in-
(4) Federal patent policies should be developed, based on uni-
stitutional scientific research with commercial application of the
form principles, which have as their objective the preservation
useful findings of science.
of incentives for technological innovation and the application
(3) It is further an appropriate Federal function to support
of procedures which will continue to assure the full use of bene-
scientific and technological efforts which are expected to provide
ficial technology to serve the public.
results beneficial to the public but which the private sector may
(5) Closer relationships should be encouraged among practi-
be unwilling or unable to support.
tioners of different scientific and technological disciplines, includ-
(4) Scientific and technological activities which may be prop-
ing the physical, social, and biomedical fields.
erly supported exclusively by the Federal Government should be
(6) Federal departments, agencies, and instrumentalities should
distinguished from those in which interests are shared with State
assure efficient management of laboratory facilities and equipment
and local governments and the private sector. Among these en-
in their custody, including acquisition of effective equipment, dis-
tities, cooperative relationships should be established which en-
posal of inferior and obsolete properties, and cross-servicing to
courage the appropriate sharing of science and technology de-
maximize the productivity of costly property of all kinds. Dis-
cisionmaking, funding support, and program planning and ex-
posal policies should include attention to possibilities for further
ecution.
productive use.
(5) The Federal Government should support and utilize en-
(7) The full use of the contributions of science and technology
gineering and its various disciplines and make maximum use of
to support State and local government goals should be encouraged.
the engineering community, whenever appropriate, as an essen-
(8) Formal recognition should be accorded those persons whose
tial element in the Federal policymaking process.
scientific and technological achievements have contributed signifi-
(6) Comprehensive legislative support for the national science
cantly to the national welfare.
and technology effort requires that the Congress be regularly in-
(9) The Federal Government should support applied scientific
formed of the condition, health and vitality, and funding re-
research, when appropriate, in proportion to the probability of its
quirements of science and technology, the relation of science and
usefulness, insofar as this probability can be determined; but
technology to changing national goals, and the need for legisla-
while maximizing the beneficial consequences of technology, the
tive modification of the Federal endeavor and structure at all
Government should act to minimize foreseeable injurious
levels as it relates to science and technology.
consequences.
(c) PROCEDURES.-The Congress declares that, in order to expedite
(10) Federal departments, agencies, and instrumentalities
and facilitate the implementation of the policy enunciated in sub-
should establish procedures to insure among them the systematic
section (a) of this section, the following coordinate procedures are
interchange of scientific data and technological findings devel-
of paramount importance:
oped under their programs.
(1) Federal procurement policy should encourage the use of
science and technology to foster frugal use of materials, energy,
6
7
TITLE II-OFFICE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
major policies, plans, and programs of the Federal Government. In
POLICY
carrying out the provisions of this section, the Director shall-
(1) seek to define coherent approaches for applying science and
SHORT TITLE
technology to critical and emerging national and international
problems and for promoting coordination of the scientific and
SEC. 201. This title may be cited as the "Presidential Science and
technological responsibilities and programs of the Federal de-
Technology Advisory Organization Act of 1976".
partments and agencies in the resolution of such problems;
(2) assist and advise the President in the preparation of the
ESTABLISHMENT
Science and Technology Report, in accordance with section 209
SEC. 202. There is established in the Executive Office of the Presi-
of this Act;
dent an Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereinafter referred
(3) gather timely and authoritative information concerning
to in this title as the "Office").
significant developments and trends in science, technology, and in
national priorities, both current and prospective, to analyze and
DIRECTOR; ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS
interpret such information for the purpose of determining
whether such developments and trends are likely to affect achieve-
SEC. 203. There shall be at the head of the Office a Director who
ment of the priority goals of the Nation as set forth in section
shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and con-
101 (b) of this Act;
sent of the Senate, and who shall be compensated at the rate provided
(4) encourage the development and maintenance of an adequate
for level II of the Executive Schedule in section 5313 of title 5, United
data base for human resources in science, engineering, and tech-
States Code. The President is authorized to appoint not more than
four Associate Directors, by and with the advice and consent of the
nology, including the development of appropriate models to fore-
cast future manpower requirements, and assess the impact of major
Senate, who shall be compensated at a rate not to exceed that provided
for level III of the Executive Schedule in section 5314 of such title.
governmental and public programs on human resources and their
utilization;
Associate Directors shall perform such functions as the Director may
(5) initiate studies and analyses, including systems analyses and
prescribe.
technology assessments, of alternatives available for the resolu-
FUNCTIONS
tion of critical and emerging national and international problems
SEC. 204. (a) The primary function of the Director is to provide,
amenable to the contributions of science and technology and, in-
within the Executive Office of the President, advice on the scientific,
sofar as possible, determine and compare probable costs, benefits,
engineering, and technological aspects of issues that require attention
and impacts of such alternatives;
at the highest levels of Government.
(6) advise the President on the extent to which the various sci-
(b) In addition to such other functions and activities as the Presi-
entific and technological programs, policies, and activities of the
dent may assign, the Director shall-
Federal Government are likely to affect the achievement of the
(1) advise the President of scientific and technological consid-
priority goals of the Nation as set forth in section 101 (b) of this
erations involved in areas of national concern including, but not
Act;
limited to, the economy, national security, health, foreign rela-
(7) provide the President with periodic reviews of Federal
tions, the environment, and the technological recovery and use of
statutes and administrative regulations of the various departments
resources;
and agencies which affect research and development activities,
(2) evaluate the scale, quality, and effectiveness of the Federal
both internally and in relation to the private sector, or which may
effort in science and technology and advise on appropriate
interfere with desirable technological innovation, together with
actions;
recommendations for their elimination, reform, or updating as
(3) advise the President on scientific and technological con-
appropriate;
siderations with regard to Federal budgets, assist the Office of
(8) develop, review, revise, and recommend criteria for deter-
Management and Budget with an annual review and analysis of
mining scientific and technological activities warranting Federal
funding proposed for research and development in budgets of all
support, and recommend Federal policies designed to advance (A)
Federal agencies, and aid the Office of Management and Budget
the development and maintenance of broadly based scientific and
and the agencies throughout the budget development process; and
technological capabilities, including human resources, at all levels
(4) assist the President in providing general leadership and
of government, academia, and industry, and (B) the effective ap-
coordination of the research and development programs of the
plication of such capabilities to national needs;
Federal Government.
(9) assess and advise on policies for international cooperation
in science and technology which will advance the national and
POLICY PLANNING, ANALYSIS, AND ADVICE
international objectives of the United States;
(10) identify and assess emerging and future areas in which
SEC. 205. (a) The Office shall serve as a source of scientific and tech-
science and technology can be used effectively in addressing na-
nological analysis and judgment for the President with respect to
tional and international problems;
8
9
(11) report at least once each year to the President on the over-
significant contribution to the resolution of problems identified
all activities and accomplishments of the Office, pursuant to section
under paragraph (1) of this subsection or to the achievement of
209 of this Act;
Federal program objectives or national goals, including those set
(12) periodically survey the nature and needs of national science
forth in section 101 (b) of this Act.
and technology policy and make recommendations to the Presi-
(b) The Office shall annually revise the five-year outlook developed
dent, for review and transmission to the Congress, for the timely
under subsection (a) of this section 80 that it takes account of new
and appropriate revision of such policy in accordance with section
problems, constraints and opportunities and changing national goals
102(a) (6) of this Act; and
and cricumstances, and shall extend the outlook 80 that it always ex-
(13) perform such other duties and functions and make and
tends five years into the future.
furnish such studies and reports thereon, and recommendations
(c) The Director of the Office shall consult as necessary with officials
with respect to matters of policy and legislation as the President
of the departments and agencies having programs and responsibilities
may request.
relating to the problems, constraints, and opportunities identified
(b) (1) The Director shall establish an Intergovernmental Science,
under subsections (a) and (b) of this section, in order to—
Engineering, and Technology Advisory Panel (hereinafter referred to
(1) identify and evaluate alternative actions that might be
as the "Panel"), whose purpose shall be to (4) identify and define
taken by the Federal Government, State and local governments,
civilian problems at State, regional, and local levels which science,
or the private sector to deal with such problems, constraints, or
engineering, and technology may assist in resolving or ameliorating;
opportunities; and
(B) recommend priorities for addressing such problems; and (C)
(2) ensure that alternative actions identified under paragraph
advise and assist the Director in identifying and fostering policies to
(1) of this subsection are fully considered by departments and
facilitate the transfer and utilization of research and development re-
agencies in formulating their budget, program, and legislative
sults 80 as to maximize their application to civilian needs.
proposals.
(2) The Panel shall be composed of (4) the Director of the Office,
(d) The Director of the Office shall consult as necessary with officials
or his representative; (B) at least ten members representing the inter-
of the Office of Management and Budget and other appropriate ele-
ests of the States, appointed by the Director of the Office after consul-
ments of the Executive Office of the President to ensure that the prob-
tation with State officials; and (σ) the Director of the National Sci-
lems, constraints, opportunities, and alternative actions identified un-
ence Foundation, or his representative.
der subsections (a), (b), and (c) of this section are fully con-
(3) (A) The Director of the Office, or his representative, shall serve
sidered in the development of the President's Budgets and legislative
as Chairman of the Panel.
programs.
(B) The Panel shall perform such functions as the Chairman
ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS OF THE DIRECTOR;
may prescribe, and shall meet at the call of the Chairman.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
(4) Each member of the Panel shall, while serving on business
of the Panel, be entitled to receive compensation at a rate not to exceed
SEC. 207. (a) The Director shall, in addition to the other duties and
the daily rate prescribed for GS-18 of the General Schedule under sec-
functions set forth in this title-
tion 5332 of title 5, United States Code, including traveltime, and,
(1) serve as Chairman of the Federal Coordinating Council for
while 80 serving away from his home or regular place of business, he
Science, Engineering, and Technology established under title IV;
and
may be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of sub-
(2) serve as a member of the Domestic Council.
sistence in the same manner as the expenses authorized by section
5703(b) of title 5, United States Code, for persons in government serv-
(b) For the purpose of assuring the optimum contribution of science
ice employed intermittently.
and technology to the national security, the Director. at the request of
the National Security Council, shall advise the National Security
Council in such matters concerning science and technology as relate
FIVE-YEAR OUTLOOK
to national security.
SEC. 206. (a) Within its first year of operation. the Office shall. to
(c) In carrying out his functions under this Act, the Director is
the extent practicable, within the limitations of available knowledge
authorized to-
and resources, and with appropriate assistance from the departments
(1) appoint such officers and employees as he may deem neces-
and agencies and such consultants and contractors as the Director
sary to perform the functions now or hereafter vested in him and
deems necessary, identify and describe situations and conditions which
to prescribe their duties;
warrant special attention within the next five years. involving-
(2) obtain services as authorized by section 3109 of title 5 of the
(1) current and emerging problems of national significance
United States Code, at rates not to exceed the rate prescribed for
that are identified through scientific research, or in which scien-
grade GS-18 of the General Schedule by section 5332 of title 5 of
tific or technical considerations are of major significance; and
the United States Code: and
(2) opportunities for, and constraints on. the use of new and
(3) enter into contracts and other arrangements for studies,
existing scientific and technological capabilities which can make a
analyses. and other services with public agencies and with private
persons, organizations, or institutions, and make such payments as
11
10
he deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act without
(2) the significant effects of current and projected trends in
legal consideration, without performance bonds, and without re-
science and technology on the social, economic, and other require-
gard to section 3709 of the Revised Statutes (41 U.S.C. 5).
ments of the Nation;
(3) a review and appraisal of selected science- and technology-
COORDINATION WITH OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
related programs, policies, and activities of the Federal Govern-
ment;
SEC. 208. (a) In exercising his functions under this Act, the Direc-
(4) an inventory and forecast of critical and emerging na-
tor shall-
tional problems the resolution of which might be substantially
(1) work in close consultation and cooperation with the Do-
assisted by the application of science and technology;
mestic Council, the National Security Council, the Council on
(5) the identification and assessment of scientific and techno-
Environmental Quality, the Council of Economic Advisers, the
logical measures that can contribute to the resolution of such
Office of Management and Budget, the National Science Board,
problems, in light of the related social, economic, political, and
and the Federal departments and agencies;
institutional considerations;
(2) utilize the services of consultants, establish such advisory
(6) the existing and projected scientific and technological re-
panels, and, to the extent practicable, consult with State and local
sources, including specialized manpower, that could contribute
governmental agencies, with appropriate professional groups,
to the resolution of such problems; and
and with such representatives of industry, the universities. agri-
(7) recommendations for legislation on science- and technol-
culture, labor, consumers, conservation organizations, and such
ogy-related programs and policies that will contribute to the
other public interest groups, organizations, and individuals as
resolution of such problems.
he deems advisable;
(b) In preparing the Report under subsection (a) of this section,
(3) hold such hearings in various parts of the Nation as he
the Office shall make maximum use of relevant data available from
deems necessary, to determine the views of the agencies, groups,
the National Science Foundation and other Government departments
and organizations referred to in paragraph (2) of this subsection
and agencies.
and of the general public, concerning national needs and trends
(c) The Director shall insure that the Report, in the form approved
in science and technology; and
by the President, is printed and made available as a public document.
(4) utilize with their consent to the fullest extent possible the
services, personnel, equipment, facilities, and information (in-
TITLE III- PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND
cluding statistical information) of public and private agencies
TECHNOLOGY
and organizations, and individuals, in order to avoid duplication
of effort and expense, and may transfer funds made available
ESTABLISHMENT
pursuant to this Act to other Federal agencies as reimbursement
for the utilization of such personnel, services, facilities, equip-
SEC. 301. The President shall establish within the Executive Office
ment, and information.
of the President a President's Committee on Science and Technology
(b) Each department, agency, and instrumentality of the Execu-
(hereinafter referred to as the "Committee").
tive Branch of the Government, including any independent agency,
is authorized to furnish the Director such information as the Director
MEMBERSHIP
deems necessary to carry out his functions under this Act.
(c) Upon request, the Administrator of the National Aeronautics
SEC. 302. (a) The Committee shall consist of-
and Space Administration is authorized to assist the Director with
(1) the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy
respect to carrying out his activities conducted under paragraph (5)
established under title II of this Act; and
of section 205 (a) of this Act.
(2) not less than eight nor more than fourteen other members
appointed by the President not more than sixty days after the
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY REPORT
Director has assumed office (as provided in section 203 of this
Act).
Sec. 209. (a) The President shall transmit annually to the Congress,
(b) Members of the Committee appointed by the President pur-
beginning February 15. 1978, a Science and Technology Report (here-
suant to subsection (a) (2) of this section shall-
inafter referred to as the "Report") which shall be prepared by the
(1) be qualified and distinguished in one or more of the follow-
Office, with appropriate assistance from Federal departments and agen-
ing areas: science, engineering, technology, information dissemi-
cies and such consultants and contractors as the Director deems neces-
nation, education, management, labor, or public affairs;
sary. The report shall draw upon the information prepared by the
(2) be capable of critically assessing the policies, priorities, pro-
Director pursuant to section 206 of this Act, and to the extent practi-
grams, and activities of the Nation, with respect to the findings,
cable, within the limitations of available knowledge and resources,
policies, and purposes set forth in title I; and
discuss such issues as-
(3) shall collectively constitute a balanced composition with re-
(1) a review of developments of national significance in science
spect to (A) fields of science and engineering, (B) academic, in-
and technology;
12
13
dustrial, and government experience, and (0) business, labor,
(10) technology designed to meet community and individual
consumer, and public interest points of view.
needs;
(c) The President shall appoint one member of the Committee to
(11) maintenance of adequate scientific and technological man-
serve as Chairman and another member to serve as Vice Chairman for
power with regard to both quality and quantity;
such periods as the President may determine.
(12) improved systems for planning and analysis of the Fed-
(d) Each member of the Committee who is not an officer of the Fed-
eral science and technology programs; and
eral Government shall, while serving on business of the Committee, be
(13) long-range study, analysis, and planning in regard to
entitled to receive compensation at a rate not to exceed the daily rate
the application of science and technology to major national
prescribed for GS-18 of the General Schedule under section 5332 of
problems or concerns.
title 5, United States Code, including traveltime, and while so serving
(b) (1) Within twelve months from the time the Committee is
away from his home or regular place of business he may be allowed
activated in accordance with section 302 (a) of this Act, the Commit-
travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in the same
tee shall issue an interim report of its activities and operations to
manner as the expenses authorized by section 5703 (b) of title 5, United
date. Not more than twenty-four months from the time the Commit-
States Code, for persons in Government service employed
tee is activated, the Committee shall submit a final report of its ac-
intermittently.
tivities, findings, conclusions, and recommendations, including such
supporting data and material as may be necessary, to the President.
FEDERAL SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY SURVEY
(2) The President, within sixty days of receipt thereof, shall trans-
mit each such report to each House of Congress together with such
SEC. 303. (a) The Committee shall survey, examine, and analyze the
comments, observations, and recommendations thereon as he deems
overall context of the Federal science, engineering, and technology
appropriate.
effort including missions, goals, personnel, funding, organization, fa-
CONTINUATION OF COMMITTEE
cilities, and activities in general, taking adequate account of the inter-
ests of individuals and groups that may be affected by Federal scien-
SEC. 304. (a) Ninety days after submission of the final report
tific, engineering, and technical programs, including, as appropriate,
prepared under section 303 of this Act, the Committee shall cease
consultation with such individuals and groups. In carrying out its
to exist, unless the President, before the expiration of the ninety-day
functions under this section, the Committee shall, among other things,
period, makes a determination that it is advantageous for the Com-
consider needs for-
mittee to continue in being.
(1) organizational reform, including institutional realinement
(b) If the President determines that it is advantageous for the
designed to place Federal agencies whose missions are primarily
Committee to continue in being, (1) the Committee shall exercise
or solely devoted to scientific and technological research and de-
such functions as are prescribed by the President; and (2) the mem-
velopment, and those agencies primarily or solely concerned with
bers of the Committee shall serve at the pleasure of the President.
fuels, energy, and materials, within a single cabinet-level depart-
ment;
STAFF AND CONSULTANT SUPPORT
(2) improvements in existing systems for handling scientific
and technical information on a Government-wide basis, including
SEC. 305. (a) In the performance of its functions under sections
consideration of the appropriate role to be played by the private
303 and 304 of this Act, the Committee is authorized-
sector in the dissemination of such information;
(1) to select, appoint, employ, and fix the compensation of such
(3) improved technology assessment in the executive branch
specialists and other experts as may be necessary for the carry-
of the Federal Government;
ing out of its duties and functions, and to select, appoint, and
(4) improved methods for effecting technology innovation,
employ, subject to the civil service laws, such other officers and
transfer, and use;
employees as may be necessary for carrying out its duties and
(5) stimulating more effective Federal-State and Federal-
functions; and
industry liaison and cooperation in science and technology, in-
(2) to provide for participation of such civilian and military
cluding the formation of Federal-State mechanisms for the
personnel as may be detailed to the Committee pursuant to sub-
mutual pursuit of this goal;
section (b) of this section for carrying out the functions of the
(6) reduction and simplification of Federal regulations and
Committee.
administrative practices and procedures which may have the
(b) Upon request of the Committee, the head of any Federal de-
effect of retarding technological innovation or opportunities for
partment, agency, or instrumentality is authorized (1) to furnish to
its utilization:
the Committee such information as may be necessary for carrying out
(7) a broader base for support of basic research;
its functions and as may be available to or procurable by such depart-
(8) ways of strengthening the Nation's academic institu-
ment, agency, or instrumentality, and (2) to detail to temporary duty
tions' capabilities for research and education in science and
with the Committee on a reimbursable basis such personnel within his
technology;
administrative jurisdiction as it may need or believe to be useful for
(9) ways and means of effectively integrating scientific and
carrying out its functions. Each such detail shall be without loss of
technological factors into our national and international policies;
14
15
seniority, pay, or other employee status, to civilian employees 80 de-
(f) The Council shall perform such other related advisory duties as
tailed, and without loss of status, rank, office, or grade, or of any
shall be assigned by the President or by the Chairman.
emolument, perquisite, right, privilege, or benefit incident thereto to
(g) For the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this section,
military personnel 80 detailed. Each such detail shall be made pur-
each Federal agency represented on the Council shall furnish neces-
suant to an agreement between the Chairman and the head of the
sary assistance to the Council. Such assistance may include-
relevant department, agency, or instrumentality, and shall be in ac-
(1) detailing employees to the Council to perform such func-
cordance with the provisions of subchapter III of chapter 33, title 5,
United States Code.
tions, consistent with the purposes of this section, as the Chairman
may assign to them, and
TITLE IV-FEDERAL COORDINATING COUNCIL FOR
(2) undertaking, upon request of the Chairman, such special
studies for the Council as come within the functions herein
SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY
assigned.
(h) For the purpose of conducting studies and making reports as
ESTABLISHMENT AND FUNCTIONS
directed by the Chairman, standing subcommittees and panels of the
SEC. 401. (a) There is established the Federal Coordinating Coun-
Council may be established.
cil for Science, Engineering, and Technology (hereinafter referred to
ABOLITION OF FEDERAL COUNCIL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
as the "Council").
(b) The Council shall be composed of the Director of the Office of
SEC. 402. The Federal Council for Science and Technology, estab-
Science and Technology Policy and one representative of each of the
lished pursuant to Executive Order 10807, issued March 13, 1959, as
following Federal agencies: Department of Agriculture, Department
amended by Executive Order 11381, issued November 8, 1967, is hereby
of Commerce, Department of Defense, Department of Health, Educa-
abolished.
tion, and Welfare, Department of Housing and Urban Development,
TITLE V-GENERAL PROVISIONS
Department of the Interior, Department of State, Department of
Transportation, Veterans' Administration, National Aeronautics and
AUTHORIZATION
Space Administration, National Science Foundation, Environmental
SEC. 501. (a) For the purpose of carrying out title II of this Act,
Protection Agency, and Energy Research and Development Adminis-
there are authorized to be appropriated-
tration. Each such representative shall be an official of policy rank
(1) $750,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1976;
designated by the head of the Federal agency concerned.
(2) $500,000 for the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending
(c) The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy
September 30, 1976;
shall serve as Chairman of the Council. The Chairman may designate
(3) $3,000,000 for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1977; and
another member of the Council to act temporarily in the Chairman's
(4) such sums as may be necessary for each of the succeeding
absence as Chairman.
fiscal years.
(d) The Chairman may (1) request the head of any Federal agency
(b) For the purpose of carrying out title III of this Act, there are
not named in subsection (b) of this section to designate a represent-
authorized to be appropriated-
ative to participate in meetings or parts of meetings of the Council
(1) $750,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1976;
concerned with matters of substantial interest to such agency, and (2)
(2) $500.000 for the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending
invite other persons to attend meetings of the Council.
September 30, 1976;
(e) The Council shall consider problems and developments in the
(3) $1,000,000 for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1977;
fields of science, engineering, and technology and related activities
and
affecting more than one Federal agency, and shall recommend policies
(4) such sums as may be necessary for each of the succeeding
and other measures designed to-
fiscal years.
(1) provide more effective planning and administration of Fed-
STATUTORY REPEAL
eral scientific, engineering, and technological programs,
(2) identify research needs including areas requiring addi-
SEC. 502. Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 of Reorganization Plan Numbered 2
tional emphasis,
of 1962 (76 Stat. 1253) and section 2 of Reorganization Plan Numbered
(3) achieve more effective utilization of the scientific, engineer-
1 of 1973 (87 Stat. 1089) are repealed.
ing, and technological resources and facilities of Federal agencies,
including the elimination of unwarranted duplication, and
AMENDMENT
(4) further international cooperation in science, engineering,
SEC. 503. Section 4 of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950
and technology.
(42 U.S.C. 1863) is amended by striking out subsection (g) and by re-
16
designating subsections (h), (i), and (j), and all references thereto, as
subsections (g), (h), and (i), respectively.
And the Senate agree to the same.
TED KENNEDY,
WARREN MAGNUSON,
FRANK E. Moss,
JOINT EXPLANATORY STATEMENT OF THE COMMITTEE
WALTER F. MONDALE,
OF CONFERENCE
JOHN TUNNEY,
WENDELL H. FORD,
The managers on the part of the House and the Senate at the con-
BARRY GOLDWATER,
ference on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses on the amendment
J. GLENN BEALL, Jr.,
of the Senate to the bill (H.R. 10230) to establish a science and tech-
PAUL LAXALT,
nology policy for the United States, to provide for scientific and tech-
Managers on the Part of the Senate.
nological advice and assistance to the President, to provide a compre-
OLIN E. TEAGUE,
hensive survey of ways and means for improving the Federal effort in
DON FUQUA,
scientific research and information handling, and in the use thereof,
JIM SYMINGTON,
and for other purposes, submit the following joint statement to the
MIKE McCormack,
House and the Senate in explanation of the effect of the action agreed
RAY THORNTON,
upon by the managers and recommended in the accompanying confer-
C. A. MOSHER,
ence report:
MARVIN L. Esch,
The amendment of the Senate struck out all after the enacting clause
Managers on the Part of the House.
in the House bill and substituted new language. The Committee of
Conference agreed to accept the Senate amendment with certain
amendments and stipulations proposed by the conferees.
The substantive changes made by the Senate amendment, together
with further amendments and modifications by the Committee of Con-
ference are as follows:
TITLE I-NATIONAL SCIENCE, ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
AND PRIORITIES
Both versions of the bill contained comprehensive statements de-
signed to establish a national science and technology policy. The state-
ments were similar in many respects and often duplicative.
The Committee of Conference substituted a compromise which
(1) follows the Senate title, (2) adopts the House style and format,
and (3) contains all the significant substantive elements of the policy
findings and declarations of each bill.
TITLE II-THE OFFICE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
This title establishes an Office of Science and Technology Policy
within the Executive Office of the President. House and Senate ver-
sions differed, and have been resolved, in the following ways.
1. Associate Directors.-The House bill authorized the President, at
his discretion, to appoint up to four Assistant Directors for the new
office. The Senate amendment differed in that it designated the four as
"Associate" Directors and required that they be confirmed in office by
the Senate. The managers on the part of the House concurred in the
Senate change. [Sec. 203]
2. Annual Report.-The House required "timely" reports from the
new office on its activities and on issues or problems involving impor-
tant scientific and technological considerations. The Senate amend-
(17)
18
19
ment required "annual" reports in this area. Managers on the part of
the specific categories for balanced membership as set out in the Sen-
the House concurred in the Senate amendment with minor editorial
ate version. [Sec. 302
changes. [Sec. (a)
4. Lifetime and Continuation of Committee.-The House bill pro-
3. Civil Service Requirements.-The bill passed by the House stip-
vided that the Committee have a lifetime of two years and that the
ulated that the appointment of officers and employees by the Director
President review and submit the Committee's report-directed toward
of the Office conform to Civil Service requirements. The Senate
the examination and analyzation of the total Federal science and tech-
amendment contained no such requirement. In conference, the man-
nology effort with appropriate findings and recommendations-to the
agers on the part of the Senate accepted the House provision. [Sec.
Congress within 60 days, together with his own comments and recom-
207(c)]
mendations. The Senate amendment was essentially the same, except
4. Contract and Hearing Authority.-The Senate amendment con-
that it provided for a one-year study and also permitted the President
tained broader consultant and contract authority for the new office
to extend the life of the Committee as he saw fit. The conferees agreed
than did the House bill; it also gave the Director authority to obtain
to the two-year House plan, but provided for an interim report after
information through the conduct of hearings, which the House bill did
one year and a final report after two years. Conferees also agreed to
not. The managers on the part of the House concurred in the Senate
the Senate provision for extension of the Committee's lifetime at the
position. [Sec. 208 (a) (2) and (3)]
discretion of the President. [Sec. 303(b) and Sec. 304]
5. National Security Council and Domestic Council.-The House
bill provided that the Director of the new Office should advise the
TITLE IV-FEDERAL COORDINATING COUNCIL FOR SCIENCE, ENGINEERING
President on, among other things, scientific and technological consid-
AND TECHNOLOGY
erations involved in national security. The Senate amendment re-
moved this provision, but provided that the Director serve as advisor
This title was not in in the House bill but was added by the Senate
amendment.
to the National Security Council when requested by the Council to do
SO. The Senate amendment also provided that the Director of the Office
The effect of this title is to make the existing Federal Council for
be made a member of the Domestic Council. The conferees settled these
Science and Technology, set up by Executive Order in 1959, a statu-
tory body with the Director of the new Office as chairman. The current
differences by incorporating all three provisions with such editorial
changes as were necessary to prevent duplication or conflict. [Sec.
Council is an interdepartmental group representing all Federal agen-
cies with significant research and development missions, whose func-
204 (b) (1) Sec. 207 (a) (2) and (b)]
6. Five-Year Outlook.-The Senate amendment contained a provi-
tion is to maintain general liaison of the overall government effort in
sion calling for a five-year outlook, or projection, of scientific and
science and technology. The title adds no new functions. It does change
the name of the present Council, emphasizes its mission, and places
technological issues, situations and conditions likely to warrant spe-
cial attention within that period, and for appropriate inputs to the
it on a statutory basis. In interpreting this title, reference should be
Office of Management and Budget and the executive departments and
made to the following statement from the Senate Report (94-622)
agencies in the formulation of Administration budgets with respect to
"These functions are purely advisory in nature and involve no exercise
of authority over the participating agencies, whose participation is
research and development. The outlook would be up-dated annually.
governed by their applicable statutes." Managers on the part of the
The House bill did not contain a similar provision. Managers on the
House agreed to accept this title.
part of the House agreed to accept the Senate provision with minor
modifications. [Sec. 206]
TITLE V-GENERAL REVISIONS
TITLE 111-PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
1. Authorization.-The House bill provided only general authoriza-
tion of such sums as might be necessary to carry out the provisions of
1. Title.-The House bill had entitled this special study group as
the Act. The Senate amendment authorized a total of $1,250,000 for
a "Survey" committee. The Senate amendment re-titled it as an "Ad-
Fiscal Year 1976 and the transitional quarter (July 1, 1976-Septem-
visory" committee. Conferees agreed to compromise on the title indi-
ber 30, 1976), and $3,000,000 for Fiscal Year 1977 for Title II of the
cated above.
Act; it authorized a total of $1,250,000 for Fiscal Year 1976 and the
2. Mandatory Provisions.-The House bill contained a mandatory
transitional quarter, and $1,000,000 for Fiscal Year 1977 for Title III
requirement that the Committee be set up as specified. The Senate
of the Act. Conferees agreed to the Senate total authorization figures
amendment made the Committee's creation optional with the Presi-
for Titles II and III for Fiscal Year 1976, the transitional quarter,
dent. The managers on the part of the Senate concurred in the House
and Fiscal Year 1977. Beyond that period, however, conferees agreed
provision. [Sec.
to authorize such sums as might be necessary. [Sec. 501] It should be
3. Membership Qualifications.-Both House and Senate versions
noted that the sums authorized parallel closely those which the Ad-
specified qualifications for membership on the Committee, but the Sen-
ministration has indicated it plans to expend for these areas in the next
ate amendment contained broader language and more specific consid-
two years.
erations. The conferees agreed to keep the House language but added
20
21
2. National Science Foundation Act.-The House bill repealed one
which it was dealing. The Senate amendment employed the phrase
clause in the Organic Act of the National Science Foundation which
"science, engineering and technology" for the same purpose.
requires an annual report from the National Science Board on the
The Committee of Conference agreed that the judicious use of each
status of science and technology in the United States. The Senate
phrase was appropriate in accordance with the particular subject mat-
amendment did not contain this provision. Managers on the part of
ter being described. Consequently, the term "engineering" was em-
the Senate agreed to the House provision. [Sec. 503]
ployed in certain areas and omitted in others, as follows:
1. "Engineering" has been retained in Title I, which deals with
OTHER SUBSTANTIVE DIFFERENCES
general national policy and priorities, and in Title IV which deals with
all Federal research and development activities on a government-wide
State and Regional Science and Technology
basis. It has not been used in either Title II or Title III, both of which
The Senate amendment contained a separate title comprised of two
deal with entities that are limited to the functions, administration
principal elements. The first of these was a 52 member inter-govern-
and discretion of the President's immediate Executive Office.
mental advisory panel to assist the Director of the new Office in his
2. The term "engineering" has also been employed in all instances
duties by providing special inputs relative to State and local needs
where the Act is concerned with manpower, with human resources or
and issues. The panel was to be composed of the Director of the Of-
with education, training or retraining of scientific personnel.
fice, the Director of the National Science Foundation, and one mem-
3. Engineering has been included in those critical parts of the Act
ber appointed by the Governor of each State. The second element was
where qualifications for offices created by the legislation are involved.
a Federal grant program, to be administered by the National Science
It has also been incorporated into the State-advisory panel established
Foundation, to assist the States in forming or strengthening a science,
in the new Policy Office [Sec. (b) and into the operation of the
engineering and technology advisory mechanism within State govern-
President's Committee on Science and Technology with reference to
ments. Each State could receive a maximum of $200,000 for this pur-
its two-year survey of Federal science operations. [Sec. 303]
pose upon proper application.
4. The "manpower" clauses, which the Senate amendment contained
The House bill contained no similar title.
and which were designed in part to emphasize the Nation's engineer-
The Committee of Conference agreed to drop the title, as such, but
ing needs, have also been retained by the conferees. [Sec. 101 (a) (4)
to incorporate into title II a scaled-down version of the inter-govern-
and (5) ;] An important new clause to ensure appropriate inputs from
mental panel. The panel's function shall be to (1) identify and define
the engineering community into the Federal policy-making process has
civilian problems at the State, regional and local levels which science,
been added. [Sec. 102(b) (5)
engineering, and technology may assist in resoluting or ameliorating;
5. In most other parts of the Act, the House terminology has been
(2) recommend priorities for addressing such problems; and (3) ad-
retained.
vise and assist the Director in identifying and fostering policies to
TED KENNEDY,
facilitate the transfer and utilization of research and development
WARREN MAGNUSON,
results SO as to maximize their application to civilian needs. [Sec.
FRANK E. Moss,
205(b)]
WALTER F. MONDALE,
At the same time, conferees agreed to express their unanimous con-
JOHN TUNNEY,
viction (1) of the soundness of the concept that State and local gov-
WENDELL H. FORD,
ernments would profit from their own science advisory systems; (2)
BARRY GOLDWATER,
that such systems could be made more effective through appropriate
J. GLENN BEALL, Jr.,
liaison with the Federal government, and (3) that greater coopera-
PAUL LAXALT,
tion and improved financial arrangements between the States and lo-
Managers on the Part of the Senate.
calities and the National Science Foundation are in order, including
adequate additional financial support of programs designed to increase
OLIN E. TEAGUE,
DON FUQUA,
a State's capacity for wise application of science and technology to
State and local needs.
JIM SYMINGTON,
Conferees further agreed to recommend to the appropriate commit-
MIKE McCoRMACK,
tee members of both the Senate and House that immediate considera-
RAY THORNTON,
tion be given to effecting these matters at the earliest opportunity.
C. A. MOSHER,
Such consideration should include the current annual authorization
MARVIN L. ESCH,
for the National Science Foundation, which has not yet been reported
Managers on the Part of the House.
from the Committee on Labor and Public Welfare of the Senate.
O
"Engineering" Terminology
The House bill, in its general terminology, used the phrase "science
and technology" throughout as reference to the generic matter with
H. R. 10230
Ainety-fourth Congress of the United States of America
AT THE SECOND SESSION
Begun and held at the City of Washington on Monday, the nineteenth day of January,
one thousand nine hundred and seventy-six
An Act
To establish a science and technology policy for the United States, to provide
for scientific and technological advice and assistance to the President, to
provide a comprehensive survey of ways and means for improving the Fed-
eral effort in scientific research and information handling, and in the use
thereof, to amend the National Science Foundation Act of 1950, and for other
purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled, That this Act may
be cited as the "National Science and Technology Policy, Organiza-
tion, and Priorities Act of 1976".
TITLE I-NATIONAL SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND
TECHNOLOGY POLICY AND PRIORITIES
FINDINGS
SEC. 101. (a) The Congress, recognizing the profound impact of
science and technology on society, and the interrelations of scientific,
technological, economic, social, political, and institutional factors,
hereby finds and declares that--
(1) the general welfare, the security, the economic health and
stability of the Nation, the conservation and efficient utilization
of its natural and human resources, and the effective functioning
of government and society require vigorous, perceptive support
and employment of science and technology in achieving national
objectives;
(2) the many large and complex scientific and technological
factors which increasingly influence the course of national and
international events require appropriate provision, involving long-
range, inclusive planning as well as more immediate program
development, to incorporate scientific and technological knowledge
in the national decisionmaking process;
(3) the scientific and technological capabilities of the United
States, when properly fostered, applied, and directed, can effec-
tively assist in improving the quality of life, in anticipating and
resolving critical and emerging international, national, and local
problems, in strengthening the Nation's international economic
position, and in furthering its foreign policy objectives;
(4) Federal funding for science and technology represents an
investment in the future which is indispensable to sustained
national progress and human betterment, and there should be a
continuing national investment in science, engineering, and tech-
nology which is commensurate with national needs and oppor-
tunities and the prevalent economic situation;
(5) the manpower pool of scientists, engineers, and technicians,
constitutes an invaluable national resource which should be uti-
lized to the fullest extent possible; and
(6) the Nation's capabilities for technology assessment and for
technological planning and policy formulation must be strength-
ened at both Federal and State levels.
H. R. 10230-2
(b) As a consequence, the Congress finds and declares that science
and technology should contribute to the following priority goals with-
out being limited thereto:
(1) fostering leadership in the quest for international peace
and progress toward human freedom, dignity, and well-being
by enlarging the contributions of American scientists and engi-
neers to the knowledge of man and his universe, by making
discoveries of basic science widely available at home and abroad,
and by utilizing technology in support of United States national
and foreign policy goals;
(2) increasing the efficient use of essential materials and prod-
ucts, and generally contributing to economic opportunity, stabil-
ity, and appropriate growth;
(3) assuring an adequate supply of food, materials, and energy
for the Nation's needs;
(4) contributing to the national security;
(5) improving the quality of health care available to all resi-
dents of the United States;
(6) preserving, fostering, and restoring a healthful and esthetic
natural environment;
(7) providing for the protection of the oceans and coastal
zones, and the polar regions, and the efficient utilization of their
resources;
(8) strengthening the economy and promoting full employ-
ment through useful scientific and technological innovations;
(9) increasing the quality of educational opportunities avail-
able to all residents of the United States;
(10) promoting the conservation and efficient utilization of
the Nation's natural and human resources;
(11) improving the Nation's housing, transportation, and com-
munication systems, and assuring the provision of effective public
services throughout urban, suburban, and rural areas;
(12) eliminating air and water pollution, and unnecessary,
unhealthful, or ineffective drugs and food additives; and
(13) advancing the exploration and peaceful uses of outer
space.
DECLARATION OF POLICY
SEC. 102. (a) PRINCIPLEs.-In view of the foregoing, the Congress
declares that the United States shall adhere to a national policy for
science and technology which includes the following principles:
(1) The continuing development and implementation of strate-
gies for determining and achieving the appropriate scope, level,
direction, and extent of scientific and technological efforts based
upon a continuous appraisal of the role of science and technology
in achieving goals and formulating policies of the United States,
and reflecting the views of State and local governments and repre-
sentative public groups.
(2) The enlistment of science and technology to foster a healthy
economy in which the directions of growth and innovation are
compatible with the prudent and frugal use of resources and with
the preservation of a benign environment.
(3) The conduct of science and technology operations SO as to
serve domestic needs while promoting foreign policy objectives.
(4) The recruitment, education, training, retraining, and bene-
ficial use of adequate numbers of scientists, engineers, and tech-
H. R. 10230-3
nologists, and the promotion by the Federal Government of the
effective and efficient utilization in the national interest of the
Nation's human resources in science, engineering, and technology.
(5) The development and maintenance of a solid base for
science and technology in the United States, including: (A)
strong participation of and cooperative relationships with State
and local governments and the private sector; (B) the mainte-
nance and strengthening of diversified scientific and technologi-
cal capabilities in government, industry, and the universities, and
the encouragement of independent initiatives based on such capa-
bilities, together with elimination of needless barriers to scien-
tific and technological innovation; (C) effective management and
dissemination of scientific and technological information; (D)
establishment of essential scientific, technical and industrial
standards and measurement and test methods; and (E) promotion
of increased public understanding of science and technology.
(6) The recognition that, as changing circumstances require
periodic revision and adaptation of title I of this Act, the Fed-
eral Government is responsible for identifying and interpreting
the changes in those circumstances as they occur, and for effecting
subsequent changes in title I as appropriate.
(b) IMPLEMENTATION.-To implement the policy enunciated in sub-
section (a) of this section, the Congress declares that:
(1) The Federal Government should maintain central policy
planning elements in the executive branch which assist Federal
agencies in (A) identifying public problems and objectives, (B)
mobilizing scientific and technological resources for essential
national programs, (C) securing appropriate funding for pro-
grams SO identified, (D) anticipating future concerns to which
science and technology can contribute and devising strategies for
the conduct of science and technology for such purposes, (E)
reviewing systematically Federal science policy and programs
and recommending legislative amendment thereof when needed.
Such elements should include an advisory mechanism within the
Executive Office of the President SO that the Chief Executive may
have available independent, expert judgment and assistance on
policy matters which require accurate assessments of the complex
scientific and technological features involved.
(2) It is a responsibility of the Federal Government to pro-
mote prompt, effective, reliable, and systematic transfer of scien-
tific and technological information by such appropriate methods
as programs conducted by nongovernmental organizations,
including industrial groups and technical societies. In particular,
it is recognized as a responsibility of the Federal Government not
only to coordinate and unify its own science and technology
information systems, but to facilitate the close coupling of insti-
tutional scientific research with commercial application of the
useful findings of science.
(3) It is further an appropriate Federal function to support
scientific and technological efforts which are expected to provide
results beneficial to the public but which the private sector may
be unwilling or unable to support.
(4) Scientific and technological activities which may be prop-
erly supported exclusively by the Federal Government should be
distinguished from those in which interests are shared with State
and local governments and the private sector. Among these enti-
H. R. 10230-4
ties, cooperative relationships should be established which
encourage the appropriate sharing of science and technology
decisionmaking, funding support, and program planning and
execution.
(5) The Federal Government should support and utilize engi-
neering and its various disciplines and make maximum use of
the engineering community, whenever appropriate, as an essential
element in the Federal policymaking process.
(6) Comprehensive legislative support for the national science
and technology effort requires that the Congress be regularly
informed of the condition, health and vitality, and funding
requirements of science and technology, the relation of science and
technology to changing national goals, and the need for legisla-
tive modification of the Federal endeavor and structure at all
levels as it relates to science and technology.
(c) PROCEDURES.-The Congress declares that, in order to expedite
and facilitate the implementation of the policy enunciated in sub-
section (a) of this section, the following coordinate procedures are
of paramount importance:
(1) Federal procurement policy should encourage the use of
science and technology to foster frugal use of materials, energy,
and appropriated funds; to assure quality environment; and to
enhance product performance.
(2) Explicit criteria, including cost-benefit principles where
practicable, should be developed to identify the kinds of applied
research and technology programs that are appropriate for Fed-
eral funding support and to determine the extent of such support.
Particular attention should be given to scientific and
technological problems and opportunities offering promise of
social advantage that are SO long range, geographically wide-
spread, or economically diffused that the Federal Government
constitutes the appropriate source for undertaking their support.
(3) Federal promotion of science and technology should empha-
size quality of research, recognize the singular importance of sta-
bility in scientific and technological institutions, and for urgent
tasks, seek to assure timeliness of results. With particular refer-
ence to Federal support for basic research, funds should be allo-
cated to encourage education in needed disciplines, to provide a
base of scientific knowledge from which future essential techno-
logical development can be launched, and to add to the cultural
heritage of the Nation.
(4) Federal patent policies should be developed, based on uni-
form principles, which have as their objective the preservation
of incentives for technological innovation and the application
of procedures which will continue to assure the full use of bene-
ficial technology to serve the public.
(5) Closer relationships should be encouraged among practi-
tioners of different scientific and technological disciplines, includ-
ing the physical, social, and biomedical fields.
(6) Federal departments, agencies, and instrumentalities should
assure efficient management of laboratory facilities and equipment
in their custody, including acquisition of effective equipment, dis-
posal of inferior and obsolete properties, and cross-servicing to
maximize the productivity of costly property of all kinds. Dis-
posal policies should include attention to possibilities for further
productive use.
H. R. 10230-5
(7) The full use of the contributions of science and technology
to support State and local government goals should be encouraged.
(8) Formal recognition should be accorded those persons whose
scientific and technological achievements have contributed signifi-
cantly to the national welfare.
(9) The Federal Government should support applied scientific
research, when appropriate, in proportion to the probability of its
usefulness, insofar as this probability can be determined; but
while maximizing the beneficial consequences of technology, the
Government should act to minimize foreseeable injurious
consequences.
(10) Federal departments, agencies, and instrumentalities
should establish procedures to insure among them the systematic
interchange of scientific data and technological findings devel-
oped under their programs.
TITLE II-OFFICE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
POLICY
SHORT TITLE
SEC. 201. This title may be cited as the "Presidential Science and
Technology Advisory Organization Act of 1976".
ESTABLISHMENT
SEC. 202. There is established in the Executive Office of the Presi-
dent an Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereinafter referred
to in this title as the "Office").
DIRECTOR; ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS
SEC. 203. There shall be at the head of the Office a Director who
shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and con-
sent of the Senate, and who shall be compensated at the rate provided
for level II of the Executive Schedule in section 5313 of title 5, United
States Code. The President is authorized to appoint not more than
four Associate Directors, by and with the advice and consent of the
Senate, who shall be compensated at a rate not to exceed that provided
for level III of the Executive Schedule in section 5314 of such title.
Associate Directors shall perform such functions as the Director may
prescribe.
FUNCTIONS
SEC. 204. (a) The primary function of the Director is to provide,
within the Executive Office of the President, advice on the scientific,
engineering, and technological aspects of issues that require attention
at the highest levels of Government.
(b) In addition to such other functions and activities as the Presi-
dent may assign, the Director shall-
(1) advise the President of scientific and technological consid-
erations involved in areas of national concern including, but not
limited to, the economy, national security, health, foreign rela-
tions, the environment, and the technological recovery and use of
resources;
H. R. 10230-6
(2) evaluate the scale, quality, and effectiveness of the Federal
effort in science and technology and advise on appropriate
actions;
(3) advise the President on scientific and technological con-
siderations with regard to Federal budgets, assist the Office of
Management and Budget with an annual review and analysis of
funding proposed for research and development in budgets of all
Federal agencies, and aid the Office of Management and Budget
and the agencies throughout the budget development process; and
(4) assist the President in providing general leadership and
coordination of the research and development programs of the
Federal Government.
POLICY PLANNING, ANALYSIS, AND ADVICE
SEC. 205. (a) The Office shall serve as a source of scientific and tech-
nological analysis and judgment for the President with respect to
major policies, plans, and programs of the Federal Government. In
carrying out the provisions of this section, the Director shall-
(1) seek to define coherent approaches for applying science and
technology to critical and emerging national and international
problems and for promoting coordination of the scientific and
technological responsibilities and programs of the Federal depart-
ments and agencies in the resolution of such problems;
(2) assist and advise the President in the preparation of the
Science and Technology Report, in accordance with section 209
of this Act;
(3) gather timely and authoritative information concerning
significant developments and trends in science, technology, and in
national priorities, both current and prospective, to analyze and
interpret such information for the purpose of determining
whether such developments and trends are likely to affect achieve-
ment of the priority goals of the Nation as set forth in section
101 (b) of this Act;
(4) encourage the development and maintenance of an adequate
data base for human resources in science, engineering, and tech-
nology, including the development of appropriate models to fore-
cast future manpower requirements, and assess the impact of major
governmental and public programs on human resources and their
utilization;
(5) initiate studies and analyses, including systems analyses and
technology assessments, of alternatives available for the resolu-
tion of critical and emerging national and international problems
amenable to the contributions of science and technology and,
insofar as possible, determine and compare probable costs, benefits,
and impacts of such alternatives;
(6) advise the President on the extent to which the various sci-
entific and technological programs, policies, and activities of the
Federal Government are likely to affect the achievement of the
priority goals of the Nation as set forth in section 101 (b) of this
Act;
(7) provide the President with periodic reviews of Federal
statutes and administrative regulations of the various departments
and agencies which affect research and development activities,
both internally and in relation to the private sector, or which may
interfere with desirable technological innovation, together with
H. R. 10230-7
recommendations for their elimination, reform, or updating as
appropriate;
(8) develop, review, revise, and recommend criteria for deter-
mining scientific and technological activities warranting Federal
support, and recommend Federal policies designed to advance (A)
the development and maintenance of broadly based scientific and
technological capabilities, including human resources, at all levels
of government, academia, and industry, and (B) the effective
application of such capabilities to national needs;
(9) assess and advise on policies for international cooperation
in science and technology which will advance the national and
international objectives of the United States;
(10) identify and assess emerging and future areas in which
science and technology can be used effectively in addressing
national and international problems;
(11) report at least once each year to the President on the over-
all activities and accomplishments of the Office, pursuant to section
209 of this Act;
(12) periodically survey the nature and needs of national science
and technology policy and make recommendations to the Presi-
dent, for review and transmission to the Congress, for the timely
and appropriate revision of such policy in accordance with section
102 (a) (6) of this Act; and
(13) perform such other duties and functions and make and
furnish such studies and reports thereon, and recommendations
with respect to matters of policy and legislation as the President
may request.
(b) (1) The Director shall establish an Intergovernmental Science,
Engineering, and Technology Advisory Panel (hereinafter referred to
as the "Panel"), whose purpose shall be to (A) identify and define
civilian problems at State, regional, and local levels which science,
engineering, and technology may assist in resolving or ameliorating;
(B) recommend priorities for addressing such problems; and (C)
advise and assist the Director in identifying and fostering policies to
facilitate the transfer and utilization of research and development
results SO as to maximize their application to civilian needs.
(2) The Panel shall be composed of (A) the Director of the Office,
or his representative; (B) at least ten members representing the inter-
ests of the States, appointed by the Director of the Office after consul-
tation with State officials; and (C) the Director of the National
Science Foundation, or his representative.
(3) (A) The Director of the Office, or his representative, shall serve
as Chairman of the Panel.
(B) The Panel shall perform such functions as the Chairman
may prescribe, and shall meet at the call of the Chairman.
(4) Each member of the Panel shall, while serving on business
of the Panel, be entitled to receive compensation at a rate not to exceed
the daily rate prescribed for GS-18 of the General Schedule under sec-
tion 5332 of title 5, United States Code, including traveltime, and,
while SO serving away from his home or regular place of business, he
may be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of sub-
sistence in the same manner as the expenses authorized by section 5703
(b) of title 5, United States Code, for persons in government service
employed intermittently.
H. R. 10230-8
FIVE-YEAR OUTLOOK
SEC. 206. (a) Within its first year of operation, the Office shall, to
the extent practicable, within the limitations of available knowledge
and resources, and with appropriate assistance from the departments
and agencies and such consultants and contractors as the Director
deems necessary, identify and describe situations and conditions which
warrant special attention within the next five years, involving-
(1) current and emerging problems of national significance that
are identified through scientific research, or in which scientific or
technical considerations are of major significance; and
(2) opportunities for, and constraints on, the use of new and
existing scientific and technological capabilities which can make a
significant contribution to the resolution of problems identified
under paragraph (1) of this subsection or to the achievement of
Federal program objectives or national goals, including those set
forth in section 101 (b) of this Act.
(b) The Office shall annually revise the five-year outlook developed
under subsection (a) of this section SO that it takes account of new
problems, constraints and opportunities and changing national goals
and circumstances, and shall extend the outlook SO that it always
extends five years into the future.
(c) The Director of the Office shall consult as necessary with officials
of the departments and agencies having programs and responsibilities
relating to the problems, constraints, and opportunities identified
under subsections (a) and (b) of this section, in order to-
(1) identify and evaluate alternative actions that might be
taken by the Federal Government, State and local governments,
or the private sector to deal with such problems, constraints, or
opportunities; and
(2) ensure that alternative actions identified under paragraph
(1) of this subsection are fully considered by departments and
agencies in formulating their budget, program, and legislative
proposals.
(d) The Director of the Office shall consult as necessary with officials
of the Office of Management and Budget and other appropriate ele-
ments of the Executive Office of the President to ensure that the prob-
lems, constraints, opportunities, and alternative actions identified
under subsections (a), (b), and (c) of this section are fully considered
in the development of the President's Budgets and legislative
programs.
ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS OF THE DIRECTOR;
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
SEC. 207. (a) The Director shall, in addition to the other duties and
functions set forth in this title-
(1) serve as Chairman of the Federal Coordinating Council for
Science, Engineering, and Technology established under title IV;
and
(2) serve as a member of the Domestic Council.
(b) For the purpose of assuring the optimum contribution of science
and technology to the national security, the Director, at the request of
the National Security Council, shall advise the National Security
Council in such matters concerning science and technology as relate
to national security.
H. R. 10230-9
(c) In carrying out his functions under this Act, the Director is
authorized to-
(1) appoint such officers and employees as he may deem neces-
sary to perform the functions now or hereafter vested in him and
to prescribe their duties;
(2) obtain services as authorized by section 3109 of title 5 of the
United States Code, at rates not to exceed the rate prescribed for
grade GS-18 of the General Schedule by section 5332 of title 5 of
the United States Code; and
(3) enter into contracts and other arrangements for studies,
analyses, and other services with public agencies and with private
persons, organizations, or institutions, and make such payments as
he deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act without
legal consideration, without performance bonds, and without
regard to section 3709 of the Revised Statutes (41 U.S.C. 5).
COORDINATION WITH OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
SEC. 208. (a) In exercising his functions under this Act, the
Director shall-
(1) work in close consultation and cooperation with the Domes-
tic Council, the National Security Council, the Council on
Environmental Quality, the Council of Economic Advisers, the
Office of Management and Budget, the National Science Board,
and the Federal departments and agencies;
(2) utilize the services of consultants, establish such advisory
panels, and, to the extent practicable, consult with State and local
governmental agencies, with appropriate professional groups,
and with such representatives of industry, the universities, agri-
culture, labor, consumers, conservation organizations, and such
other public interest groups, organizations, and individuals as
he deems advisable;
(3) hold such hearings in various parts of the Nation as he
deems necessary, to determine the views of the agencies, groups,
and organizations referred to in paragraph (2) of this subsection
and of the general public, concerning national needs and trends
in science and technology; and
(4) utilize with their consent to the fullest extent possible the
services, personnel, equipment, facilities, and information
(including statistical information) of public and private agencies
and organizations, and individuals, in order to avoid duplication
of effort and expense, and may transfer funds made available
pursuant to this Act to other Federal agencies as reimbursement
for the utilization of such personnel, services, facilities, equip-
ment, and information.
(b) Each department, agency, and instrumentality of the Execu-
tive Branch of the Government, including any independent agency,
is authorized to furnish the Director such information as the Director
deems necessary to carry out his functions under this Act.
(c) Upon request, the Administrator of the National Aeronautics
and Space Administration is authorized to assist the Director with
respect to carrying out his activities conducted under paragraph (5)
of section 205 (a) of this Act.
H. R. 10230-10
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY REPORT
SEC. 209. (a) The President shall transmit annually to the Congress,
beginning February 15, 1978, a Science and Technology Report (here-
inafter referred to as the "Report") which shall be prepared by the
Office, with appropriate assistance from Federal departments and
agencies and such consultants and contractors as the Director deems
necessary. The report shall draw upon the information prepared by
the Director pursuant to section 206 of this Act, and to the extent
practicable, within the limitations of available knowledge and
resources, discuss such issues as-
(1) a review of developments of national significance in science
and technology;
(2) the significant effects of current and projected trends in
science and technology on the social, economic, and other require-
ments of the Nation;
(3) a review and appraisal of selected science- and technology-
related programs, policies, and activities of the Federal Govern-
ment;
(4) an inventory and forecast of critical and emerging
national problems the resolution of which might be substantially
assisted by the application of science and technology;
(5) the identification and assessment of scientific and techno-
logical measures that can contribute to the resolution of such
problems. in light of the related social, economic, political, and
institutional considerations;
(6) the existing and projected scientific and technological
resources, including specialized manpower, that could contribute
to the resolution of such problems; and
(7) recommendations for legislation on science- and technol-
ogy-related programs and policies that will contribute to the
resolution of such problems.
(b) In preparing the Report under subsection (a) of this section,
the Office shall make maximum use of relevant data available from
the National Science Foundation and other Government departments
and agencies.
(c) The Director shall insure that the Report, in the form approved
by the President, is printed and made available as a public document.
TITLE II-PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY
ESTABLISHMENT
SEC. 301. The President shall establish within the Executive Office
of the President a President's Committee on Science and Technology
(hereinafter referred to as the "Committee").
MEMBERSHIP
SEC. 302. (a) The Committee shall consist of-
(1) the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy
established under title II of this Act; and
(2) not less than eight nor more than fourteen other members
appointed by the President not more than sixty days after the
Director has assumed office (as provided in section 203 of this
Act).
H. R. 10230-11
(b) Members of the Committee appointed by the President pur-
suant to subsection (a) (2) of this section shall-
(1) be qualified and distinguished in one or more of the follow-
ing areas: science, engineering, technology, information dissemi-
nation, education, management, labor, or public affairs;
(2) be capable of critically assessing the policies, priorities, pro-
grams, and activities of the Nation, with respect to the findings,
policies, and purposes set forth in title I; and
(3) shall collectively constitute a balanced composition with
respect to (A) fields of science and engineering, (B) academic,
industrial, and government experience, and (C) business, labor,
consumer, and public interest points of view.
(c) The President shall appoint one member of the Committee to
serve as Chairman and another member to serve as Vice Chairman for
such periods as the President may determine.
(d) Each member of the Committee who is not an officer of the Fed-
eral Government shall, while serving on business of the Committee, be
entitled to receive compensation at a rate not to exceed the daily rate
prescribed for GS-18 of the General Schedule under section 5332 of
title 5. United States Code, including traveltime, and while so serving
away from his home or regular place of business he may be allowed
travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in the same
manner as the expenses authorized by section 5703(b) of title 5,
United States Code, for persons in Government service employed
intermittently.
FEDERAL SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY SURVEY
SEC. 303. (a) The Committee shall survey, examine, and analyze the
overall context of the Federal science, engineering, and technology
effort including missions, goals, personnel, funding, organization,
facilities, and activities in general, taking adequate account of the
interests of individuals and groups that may be affected by Federal
scientific, engineering, and technical programs, including, as appro-
priate, consultation with such individuals and groups. In carrying out
its functions under this section, the Committee shall, among other
things, consider needs for-
(1) organizational reform, including institutional realinement
designed to place Federal agencies whose missions are primarily
or solely devoted to scientific and technological research and
development, and those agencies primarily or solely concerned
with fuels, energy, and materials, within a single cabinet-level
department;
(2) improvements in existing systems for handling scientific
and technical information on a Government-wide basis, including
consideration of the appropriate role to be played by the private
sector in the dissemination of such information;
(3) improved technology assessment in the executive branch
of the Federal Government;
(4) improved methods for effecting technology innovation,
transfer, and use;
(5) stimulating more effective Federal-State and Federal-
industry liaison and cooperation in science and technology,
including the formation of Federal-State mechanisms for the
mutual pursuit of this goal;
H. R. 10230-12
(6) reduction and simplification of Federal regulations and
administrative practices and procedures which may have the
effect of retarding technological innovation or opportunities for
its utilization;
(7) a broader base for support of basic research;
(8) ways of strengthening the Nation's academic institutions'
capabilities for research and education in science and technology;
(9) ways and means of effectively integrating scientific and
technological factors into our national and international policies;
(10) technology designed to meet community and individual
needs;
(11) maintenance of adequate scientific and technological man-
power with regard to both quality and quantity;
(12) improved systems for planning and analysis of the Fed-
eral science and technology programs; and
(13) long-range study, analysis, and planning in regard to
the application of science and technology to major national
problems or concerns.
(b) (1) Within twelve months from the time the Committee is
activated in accordance with section 302(a) of this Act, the Commit-
tee shall issue an interim report of its activities and operations to
date. Not more than twenty-four months from the time the Committee
is activated, the Committee shall submit a final report of its activities,
findings, conclusions, and recommendations, including such support-
ing data and material as may be necessary, to the President.
(2) The President, within sixty days of receipt thereof, shall trans-
mit each such report to each House of Congress together with such
comments, observations, and recommendations thereon as he deems
appropriate.
CONTINUATION OF COMMITTEE
SEC. 304. (a) Ninety days after submission of the final report pre-
pared under section 303 of this Act, the Committee shall cease to
exist, unless the President, before the expiration of the ninety-day
period, makes a determination that it is advantageous for the
Committee to continue in being.
(b) If the President determines that it is advantageous for the
Committee to continue in being, (1) the Committee shall exercise
such functions as are prescribed by the President; and (2) the mem-
bers of the Committee shall serve at the pleasure of the President.
STAFF AND CONSULTANT SUPPORT
SEC. 305. (a) In the performance of its functions under sections
303 and 304 of this Act, the Committee is authorized-
(1) to select, appoint, employ, and fix the compensation of such
specialists and other experts as may be necessary for the carry-
ing out of its duties and functions, and to select, appoint, and
employ, subject to the civil service laws, such other officers and
employees as may be necessary for carrying out its duties and
functions; and
(2) to provide for participation of such civilian and military
personnel as may be detailed to the Committee pursuant to sub-
section (b) of this section for carrying out the functions of the
Committee.
(b) Upon request of the Committee, the head of any Federal depart-
ment, agency, or instrumentality is authorized (1) to furnish to
H. R. 10230-13
the Committee such information as may be necessary for carrying out
its functions and as may be available to or procurable by such depart-
ment, agency, or instrumentality, and (2) to detail to temporary duty
with the Committee on a reimbursable basis such personnel within his
administrative jurisdiction as it may need or believe to be useful for
carrying out its functions. Each such detail shall be without loss of
seniority, pay, or other employee status, to civilian employees SO
detailed, and without loss of status, rank, office, or grade, or of any
emolument, perquisite, right, privilege, or benefit incident thereto to
military personnel SO detailed. Each such detail shall be made pur-
suant to an agreement between the Chairman and the head of the
relevant department, agency, or instrumentality, and shall be in accord-
ance with the provisions of subchapter III of chapter 33, title 5, United
States Code.
TITLE IV-FEDERAL COORDINATING COUNCIL FOR
SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY
ESTABLISHMENT AND FUNCTIONS
SEC. 401. (a) There is established the Federal Coordinating Coun-
cil for Science, Engineering, and Technology (hereinafter referred to
as the "Council").
(b) The Council shall be composed of the Director of the Office of
Science and Technology Policy and one representative of each of the
following Federal agencies: Department of Agriculture, Department
of Commerce, Department of Defense, Department of Health, Educa-
tion, and Welfare, Department of Housing and Urban Development,
Department of the Interior, Department of State, Department of
Transportation, Veterans' Administration, National Aeronautics and
Space Administration, National Science Foundation, Environmental
Protection Agency, and Energy Research and Development Adminis-
tration. Each such representative shall be an official of policy rank
designated by the head of the Federal agency concerned.
(c) The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy
shall serve as Chairman of the Council. The Chairman may designate
another member of the Council to act temporarily in the Chairman's
absence as Chairman.
(d) The Chairman may (1) request the head of any Federal agency
not named in subsection (b) of this section to designate a represent-
ative to participate in meetings or parts of meetings of the Council
concerned with matters of substantial interest to such agency, and (2)
invite other persons to attend meetings of the Council.
(e) The Council shall consider problems and developments in the
fields of science, engineering, and technology and related activities
affecting more than one Federal agency, and shall recommend policies
and other measures designed to-
(1) provide more effective planning and administration of Fed-
eral scientific, engineering, and technological programs,
(2) identify research needs including areas requiring addi-
tional emphasis,
(3) achieve more effective utilization of the scientific, engineer-
ing, and technological resources and facilities of Federal agencies,
including the elimination of unwarranted duplication, and
(4) further international cooperation in science, engineering,
and technology.
H. R. 10230-14
(f) The Council shall perform such other related advisory duties as
shall be assigned by the President or by the Chairman.
(g) For the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this section,
each Federal agency represented on the Council shall furnish neces-
sary assistance to the Council. Such assistance may include-
(1) detailing employees to the Council to perform such func-
tions, consistent with the purposes of this section, as the Chairman
may assign to them, and
(2) undertaking, upon request of the Chairman, such special
studies for the Council as come within the functions herein
assigned.
(h) For the purpose of conducting studies and making reports as
directed by the Chairman, standing subcommittees and panels of the
Council may be established.
ABOLITION OF FEDERAL COUNCIL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
SEC. 402. The Federal Council for Science and Technology, estab-
lished pursuant to Executive Order 10807, issued March 13, 1959, as
amended by Executive Order 11381, issued November 8, 1967, is hereby
abolished.
TITLE V-GENERAL PROVISIONS
AUTHORIZATION
SEC. 501. (a) For the purpose of carrying out title II of this Act,
there are authorized to be appropriated-
(1) $750,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1976;
(2) $500,000 for the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending
September 30, 1976;
(3) $3,000,000 for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1977 and
(4) such sums as may be necessary for each of the succeeding
fiscal years.
(b) For the purpose of carrying out title III of this Act, there are
authorized to be appropriated-
(1) $750,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1976;
(2) $500,000 for the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending
September 30, 1976;
(3) $1,000,000 for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1977;
and
(4) such sums as may be necessary for each of the succeeding
fiscal years.
STATUTORY REPEAL
SEC. 502. Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 of Reorganization Plan Numbered 2
of 1962 (76 Stat. 1253) and section 2 of Reorganization Plan Num-
bered 1 of 1973 (87 Stat. 1089) are repealed.
H.R. 10230-15
AMENDMENT
SEC. 503. Section 4 of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950
(42 U.S.C. 1863) is amended by striking out subsection (g) and by
redesignating subsections (h), (i), and (j), and all references thereto,
as subsections (g), (h), and (i), respectively.
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MAY 11, 1976
OFFICE OF THE WHITE HOUSE PRESS SECRETARY
THE WHITE HOUSE
REMARKS OF THE PRESIDENT
UPON SIGNING H.R. 10230
THE BILL TO CREATE THE OFFICE OF
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
THE EAST GARDEN
10:48 A.M. EDT
Mr. Vice President, Members of the House and
Senate, distinguished leaders of the Scientific and Engineering
Community, and friends:
I am pleased that all of you could join with me
on this very important occasion.
Almost 200 years ago, Thomas Jefferson said:
"Knowledge is power; knowledge is safety; knowledge is
happiness.'
We Americans have sought knowledge since
Jefferson's time, sometimes for its own sake and often used
for the betterment of our own lives and the protection of
the ideals on which our country was founded.
Those of us here today share a very strong view
that science and engineering and technology can and must
continue to make great contributions to the achievement of
our goals. We look to the men and women of our scientific
and engineering community to provide new knowledge and to
provide new products and services that we need for the
growth of our economy, for the improvement of our health
and for the defense of our Nation and for a better life for
all.
During the past 21 months I have been able to
put into practice some of my views about the importance of
science and technology. In June of 1975, I proposed
legislation to create a new Office of Science and Technological
Policy. That proposal has passed the Congress and is now
before me for approval. We have taken other steps to draw
upon the knowledge of our scientific and technical experts.
I have submitted to the Congress, as part of a
fiscal year 1977 budget, requests for nearly $25 billion
that is needed to assure that we are moving forward in all
major areas of research and development, particularly in
basic research. This is an increase of approximately 11
percent.
MORE
Page 2
Today, I sign into law the National Science
and Technological Policy and Organization and Priorities
Act of 1976. In addition to establishing the new office,
the bill calls for an intensive study of the way we
utilize science and technology in the Government and in
the Nation. It helps to assure that we will have the views
of State and local governments, business, labor and citizen
groups in a great effort.
I congratulate and thank the Members of the
Congress on the fine work represented by this legislation.
It is a good example of an effective cooperation between
the Congress and the Executive Branch and I am most grateful.
I am now very pleased to sign this bill into law.
END
(AT 10:52 A.M. EDT)
MAY 11, 1976
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Office of the White House Press Secretary
THE WHITE HOUSE
STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT
Two hundred years ago, one of this Nation's Founding
Fathers and a man of great intellect -- Thomas Jefferson --
observed, "Knowledge is power, knowledge is safety, knowledge
is happiness."
Jefferson knew, as did the other great leaders who
established this republic, that the pursuit and wise appli-
cation of new knowledge are essential to any nation's
progress. They encouraged exploration, new methods of
agriculture, the establishment of scientific societies
and institutions of higher learning, and protection and
improvement of the Nation's health. They supported those
who sought to expand America's physical and intellectual
frontiers -- our explorers, scientists, inventors, engineers,
and teachers.
This strong emphasis on progress through knowledge has
continued throughout our history. It has been instrumental
in helping develop the America we know -- its agriculture,
industry, economy, health, national security, and many of
the amenities we enjoy. Science, engineering and technology
have combined to become a basic underlying force in American
life -- a force that America has shared with the world to
the ultimate benefit of all mankind.
Now as we enter our Third Century science, engineering
and technology are more important than ever in meeting the
challenges and opportunities which lie ahead for this Nation
and the world.
The bill that I am signing today -- the National Science
and Technology Policy, Organization and Priorities Act of
1976, H.R. 10230 -- will help us in meeting those challenges.
It outlines a comprehensive policy for achievement of our
national objectives through the effective utilization of
science and technology.
The key provision of the bill is the creation of a
new Office of Science and Technology Policy in the Executive
Office of the President. I first proposed legislation to
authorize this office in June 1975. I attach great impor-
tance not only to a strong national effort in science and
technology but also to the availability of expert advice
at all levels in the Federal government. This new office
will provide an important source of advice on the scientific,
engineering, and technical aspects of issues that require
attention at the highest levels of government.
more
2
The bill also calls for a two-year study of the overall
context of the Federal science, engineering and technology
effort. This study should provide the basis for reassessing
the organization and management of Federal research and de-
velopment activities. It should help to ensure that government
efforts are properly related to those of private enterprise
which has the primary responsibility for turning new ideas
into new and improved products and services for the marketplace.
Finally, the bill calls upon the Director of the new
office to establish an intergovernmental science, engineering
and technology advisory panel to identify problems of the
State, regional and local levels where science and technology
can contribute.
Along with continued, vigorous support from the private
sector, a strong Federal effort in science, engineering and
technology is critical to our future. My 1977 Budget calls
for $24.7 billion for Federal research and development
programs -- an increase of 11 percent over 1976 estimates.
I am hopeful that the Congress will approve my funding
requests, particularly those to increase Federal support
of basic research.
The National Science and Technology Policy Organizational
and Priorities Act of 1976 reflects a renewed recognition of
the importance of scientific, engineering and technological
contributions. It symbolizes the confidence we Americans
have in our ability to inprove our way of life and to find
better solutions to the problems of the future. I take great
pleasure in signing this bill into law.
# # #
May 3, 1976
Dear Mr. Director:
The following bill was received at the White
House on May 3rd:
H.R. 10230
Please let the President have reports and
recommendations as to the approval of this
bill as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Robert D. Linder
Chief Executive Clerk
The Honorable James T. Lynn
Director
Office of Management and Budget
Washington, D.C.
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