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U.S. Code as of:
01/19/04
Section 6601. Congressional findings; priority goals
(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
effectively 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
technology which is commensurate with national needs and
opportunities and the prevalent economic situation;
(5) the manpower pool of scientists, engineers, and
technicians, constitutes an invaluable national resource which
should be utilized to the fullest extent possible; and
(6) the Nation's capabilities for technology assessment and for
technological planning and policy formulation must be
strengthened at both Federal and State levels.
(b) As a consequence, the Congress finds and declares that
science and technology should contribute to the following priority
goals without 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 engineers
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
products, and generally contributing to economic opportunity,
stability, 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
residents 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 employment
through useful scientific and technological innovations;
(9) increasing the quality of educational opportunities
available 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
communication 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.
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