The Task Force on American Innovation, of which AAU is a member, sent a letter urging Senate and House Budget Committee leaders to prioritize investments in fundamental research and research-related infrastructure in the FY22 budget, any potential reconciliation instructions, and the competitiveness legislation conference agreement and appropriation measures.
The letter expressed concern that, despite bipartisan support, there is uncertainty in funding for fundamental research and research infrastructure in existing congressional proposals. Appropriations for some federal science agencies, the letter pointed out, have already failed to keep up with broader discretionary spending. “We call on you to make significant federal investments in fundamental research and research infrastructure a cornerstone of your initiatives to drive innovation, job growth, and prosperity in our country,” the letter stated.