NanoBusiness Alliance Executive Chairman Sean Murdock today commended the House of Representatives for passing the National Nanotechnology Initiative Amendments Act of 2008 (H.R. 5940). The bill, which reauthorizes and updates the successful federal interagency nanotechnology research and development program, passed by an overwhelming, bipartisan margin. "We are pleased that Congress continues to recognize the importance of nanotechnology," said Murdock. "It is imperative that the United States maintain its lead in the global nanotechnology race, and this bill will help make that happen."
"House Science and Technology Committee Chairman Bart Gordon (D-TN), Ranking Member Ralph Hall (R-TX), and the other Members of the Committee put together an excellent, bipartisan bill," said Murdock. "The entire Committee should be proud of this legislation." Chairman Gordon had addressed the Alliance's NanoBusiness 2008 national conference in New York City in May.
The bill updates the National Nanotechnology Initiative, first authorized in 2003, and adds new provisions in several key areas: addressing environmental, health, and safety issues associated with nanotechnology; improving nanotechnology education; ensuring that new technology moves from the laboratory to the marketplace; focusing research efforts in areas of national importance such as electronics, energy efficiency, health care, and water remediation; and research into nanomanufacturing.
"The National Nanotechnology Initiative Amendments Act is the next bold step toward bringing the promise of nanotechnology to all Americans," said Murdock. "Nanotechnology will help drive our innovation economy while improving the environment, health, and a wide range of products."
The Senate is expected to put forward its own nanotechnology bill shortly. "We look forward to continuing to work with the Senate as it takes up this important issue," said Murdock. Senate Science, Technology, and Innovation Subcommittee Chairman John Kerry (D-MA) also spoke at the NanoBusiness 2008 conference.
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