Geoscience Policy Monthly Review
december 2015
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federal agencies & administration
NDAA includes provision supporting conference travel for scientists
December 4, 2015
The fiscal year (FY) 2016 National Defense Authorization Act (S. 1356), which normally focuses on the Department of Defense, included provisions supporting scientific research and collaboration among all federal science agencies. The bill, which was signed into law last month, effectively relieves some travel restrictions for federal scientists and engineers traveling to scientific conferences.
The bill allows for an expedited approval process for scientists employed through the federal government to attend science and innovation activities, including conferences. On July 30, 2014 the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee approved legislation limiting travel to scientific conferences for federal employees.
Sources: AIP News Bulletin, congress.gov
President signs bill strengthening K-12 STEM education
December 10, 2015
On December 10, the President signed the Student Success Act (S.1177) into law. The act redistributes the responsibility for student performance at the K-12 public school level from the federal government to the individual states, and strengthens the federal government’s support of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.
The act will ensure that states set high standards for students entering high school, and it directs state and local decision makers to develop strong frameworks for school improvement. The act also sustains accountability by guaranteeing that students who fall behind in school will have mandated resources made available to help them improve.
Sources: AIP Bulletin, White House Press Release, congress.gov
Dr. Suzette Kimball confirmed as Director of the U.S. Geological Survey
December 18, 2015
The Senate has finally confirmed Dr. Suzette M. Kimball as Director of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Dr. Kimball, an environmental scientist focused on coastal processes with decades of experience in public service, has led the agency in an acting capacity since February 2013. The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, which had previously considered her nomination in 2014, held another hearing on her nomination last October and unanimously approved her confirmation in November; this time the full Senate gave their approval.
Sources: The Department of the Interior