Report touts science as economic key

The study - authored by Rep. Vernon Ehlers (R-Mich.) at House Speaker Newt Gingrich's request - is intended to start a public dialogue on a new national science policy.

"We recommend substantial and stable funding for science as absolutely essential," Ehlers, vice chairperson of the Science Committee, told reps.

The study focuses attention on the importance of scientific research in maintaining the nation's economic strength. Continued investment in science is needed, especially in basic research, the 74-page report said, "if we hope to stay ahead of our economic competitors in the rest of the world."

Gingrich (R-Ga.) called the report "a very good beginning."

"But ... it only scratches the surface of what, over the next four or five years, has to be a national dialogue," he said.

George Brown (D-Calif.) the senior Democrat on the Science Committee, said the report "opens the door to debate" on the priorities of federal funding of scientific research. But he added, "This report does not go as far or reach as deeply as I would like."

Gingrich challenged scientists to read Ehler's report and suggest a bold second phase of scientific objectives.

Ehlers, the only research physicist in Congress, said the study was the product of 11 hearings and discussions with about 10,000 scientists nationwide.

House Republicans hope the report will be a guide for Congress as science programs and priorities are considered.

The study may go to the floor of the House so lawmakers can endorse it in a resolution as the basis for a national science policy. The only highly regarded national science policy statement is some 50 years old and thus outdated, Republican leaders have said.

"I believe the report will be an extremely important blueprint in helping the nation frame its deliberations and actions on science policy for years to come," said Physics Prof. Homer Neal, former interim president of the University.

Neal was vice president for research at the Ann Arbor school when Ehlers was conducting the study. Neal and Charles Vest, president of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, were singled out for their contributions to the study.

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