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.
We Have a Deal, Agency Budget Details in September (We Hope)
August 21, 2019
Washington, DC is enjoying the slower pace of August and – despite earlier threats that the Senate might stay in session – Congress is on summer recess. On August 1, shortly before heading home, Senators voted (67-28), to pass the Bipartisan Budget Act (BBA) of 2019 (H.R. 3877). The measure was approved by the House (284-149) the week prior. Opposition in both chambers came mainly from Republicans concerned about annual deficits.
Signed into law by the president
read moreGetting the Gist Requires Expertise
August 21, 2019
When the trees block the view of the forest, the consequences can be dire. A recent paper in Policy Insights in the Behavioral and Brain Sciences looks at one component of the 2002 decision to invade Iraq as an example where policy makers had the details but not the context needed to make an informed decision on whether to invade. The paper also demonstrates how adherence to a concept known as Fuzzy Trace Theory could make sure future decisions are well advised and
read moreHouse Poised to Vote on Budget Deal Before Leaving for August Recess
July 25, 2019
At press time, the U.S. House of Representatives was poised to pass the Bipartisan Budget Act (BBA) of 2019, a budget deal that was reached at the beginning of the week. After months of deliberation, the House, Senate, and Administration reached a two-year budget deal to raise the caps and avoid defaulting on the national debt. Much of the negotiation has reportedly taken place between House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.
Congress
read moreLocating the Ignition for Motivation
July 25 2019
How much effort would you expend if you knew a reward was headed your way?
Michael Treadway, Ph.D., an associate professor of psychology at Emory University, is looking at neural circuitry and why some people work hard for a known payoff while others do not.
Treadway’s research broadly focuses on people with mental illnesses such as depression and schizophrenia and their decisions to engage in certain behaviors—such as getting out of bed or off the couch. If
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