FABBS reports on items of interest to many communities – scientists, policymakers, and the public. In our news, you will see updates on science funding and policy, articles that translate research for policy, and descriptions of the research contributions of scientists at all stages of their research careers.
Lawmakers Propose Significant Changes to and Funding for NSF
June 4th, 2020
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Sen. Todd Young (R-IN), with House sponsors Representatives Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Mike Gallagher (R-WI), introduced The Endless Frontier Act on May 21. The legislation (pg 2597) (S. 3832), would make significant changes to the structure of the National Science Foundation (NSF), creating a new Directorate of Technology and renaming NSF to be the National Science and Technology Foundation. S. 3832 authorizes $100 billion for
read moreA Possible Path Forward for FY 2021 and COVID-19 Relief
June 4th, 2020
As states start to reopen and the country approaches the presidential election, Congress is considering how to move forward with any additional COVID-19 stimulus packages and the 12 appropriations bills for fiscal year 2021.
Last month, the House passed, along party lines, the “Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions.” The HEROES Act would provide more than $3 trillion to federal agencies, state and local governments, small businesses, and individuals.
read moreSocieties Consortium Provides Guidance on Inclusivity in Virtual Meetings
June 4th, 2020
The Societies Consortium on Sexual Harassment in STEMM held a virtual conference on May 21st entitled “Effective Approaches to Adopting Inclusive Conduct and Honors Policies”. While virtual meetings have the potential to faciliate access for some people, they can also create additional complications for vulnerable groups. In some cases, proper measures and sensitivity can address these barriers. Interacting in cyberspace is known to elicit a different set of
read moreNational Science Board Announces New Leadership and Members and Releases Vision 2030 Report
May 21, 2020
Earlier this month, the National Science Board (NSB), which oversees the National Science Foundation, met (virtually), announced new leadership, and released the Vision 2030 report.
Ellen Ochoa, currently serving as vice-chair, was elected to succeed Diane Souvaine as NSB Chair. Having served as chair for a term of two years, Dr. Souvaine is completing her service to the board after serving two six-year terms. Ochoa, an astronaut with a doctorate in electrical engineering,
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