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.
Biden Assembles New Members of PCAST
October 6, 2021
On September 22, President Biden announced the new members of the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST). This independent Federal Advisory Committee is responsible for making recommendations to the President on Science and Technology policy, and providing evidence-backed insights to inform other policy areas. Members are typically experts from a range of disciplines, including industry and
read moreCongress Avoids Shutdown, but Uncertainty Remains
October 1, 2021
On Thursday night, Congress passed a continuing resolution (CR) narrowly avoiding a government shutdown that would have gone into effect at midnight on September 30th. The legislation maintains current funding levels until December 3, by which time Congress will again have to find agreement on spending levels for fiscal year (FY) 2022. The bill also included emergency supplemental funding for disaster relief related to recent hurricanes, as well as for Afghan resettlement
read moreBudget Update: House Passes Bill that Combines Short Term Funding with Lifting Debt Limit
September 22, 2021
Congress continues to inch closer to a number of key deadlines in the coming weeks. Most importantly, government funding expires on September 30 and the federal debt limit will be reached sometime in October. If Congress fails to pass appropriations and lift the debt limit, the government will shut down and the Treasury will be unable to meet its financial obligations.
On September 21, the House of Representatives passed a bill combining short-term
read moreOSTP Issues Pandemic Preparedness Plan
September 22, 2021
On Sept. 2, the Biden administration released American Pandemic Preparedness: Transforming Our Capabilities, a $65 billion plan – invested over 10 years- to address future pandemics. The preparedness strategy includes five main pillars: Transforming our Medical Defenses; Ensuring Situational Awareness; Strengthening Public Health Systems; Building Core Capabilities; Managing the Mission.
The memo credits the speed of
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