WASHINGTON – The Science Coalition (TSC) released the following statement after Congress approved the remaining seven appropriations bills for FY2019, averting another government shutdown and providing funding stability for the scientific community:
“America’s research universities – not to mention thousands of scientists, researchers, and students – are breathing a sigh of relief. Universities are still recovering from the longest government shutdown in history and another lapse in funding would have exacerbated these challenges.
“This bill prioritizes federal investment in fundamental research by delivering record funding for key science agencies, such as the National Science Foundation, that underpin the future of American innovation in the areas of public health, energy, national security, and much more. This funding will also enable America’s research universities to continue to advance our nation’s global leadership in science and technology. We urge the President to sign the bill into law without delay.
“We encourage Congress and the Administration to use this momentum to their advantage. The next fiscal year is right around the corner, and with it, a looming cloud of devastating sequestration cuts to the tune of approximately $225 billion over two years. We should build on this progress to boost investment in U.S. global scientific and technology leadership, not jeopardize it.”
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About the Science Coalition
Established in 1994, the Science Coalition is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization of more than 50 of the nation’s leading public and private research universities. It is dedicated to sustaining the federal government’s investment in basic scientific research as a means to stimulate the economy, spur innovation, and drive America’s global competitiveness.