The Society of Toxicology (SOT) has joined with 148 other science and engineering, medical and health, and higher education organizations in urging Congress to reject the Administration-proposed cuts to science in the fiscal year (FY) 2018 appropriations. This letter was sent to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, Speaker of the House Paul Ryan, and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi.
This May 24, 2017, letter underscored the national importance and historic bipartisan support for science noting “…our nation’s research enterprise is among the most powerful engines for American prosperity. One of the consistent areas of bipartisan agreement over the past 70 years has been the importance of the federal government’s role in supporting research and innovation.”
Moreover, the letter asks that Congress consider the following significant factors as the appropriations for FY 2018 are deliberated.
- America’s research and development (R&D) enterprise has made our nation the world’s preeminent, most effective, and sought-after partner for innovation.
- US investments in R&D have created millions of jobs in public and private sectors, enhanced state economies, and generated commercial growth.
- Decreased investment would have significant impacts on our country’s long-term competitiveness and lead to an American innovation deficit.
For additional information, please view the full letter, an initial analysis of the R&D budget request, and a brief video explaining the budget process.