Victor Valley Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last Friday, U.S. Representatives Jay Obernolte (R-CA) and Haley Stevens (D-MI) introduced the Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness (EPIC) Act. This legislation would establish a Foundation for Standards and Metrology (FSM) to support the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in their work advancing measurement science, standards, and technological development.

“It is vital that America maintains its position as the world leader in science and technology,” said Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-CA). “The creation of the Foundation for Standards and Metrology will assist in ensuring industry, non-profits, and academia receive the resources that they need to establish cutting-edge standards that enhance the economic security and prosperity of the U.S., which is why I’m proud to be the Republican co-lead on this critical legislation.”

“NIST’s work is at the heart of American innovation and competitiveness,” said Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI). “Unfortunately, recent budgets have not fully funded their critical work. That’s why I’m proud to introduce the Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness (EPIC) Act, which will establish a non-profit foundation adjacent to NIST to help them access private sector and philanthropic dollars and partnerships to continue their critical work. Tapping new collaborations will allow NIST to continue their vital role in securing American leadership in cyber, AI, and quantum computing in the mid-21st century and beyond.”

The EPIC Act establishes a Foundation for Standards and Metrology (FSM) to engage with academia, industry, and civil society organizations to create innovative partnerships supporting NIST’s mission in advancing measurement science, technical standards, and emerging technologies. FSM will support NIST as a Congressionally-authorized independent foundation similar to those at other federal science agencies including NIH, CDC, USDA, and DOE. By allowing NIST similar flexibility enjoyed by other federal science agencies, the U.S. aims to unlock NIST’s potential within the innovation ecosystem and foster commercialization of emerging technologies such as AI and quantum computing.

Specifically, FSM will enable NIST to have:

- Increased access to private sector and philanthropic funding,

- Advanced innovative collaborations with industry, non-profit organizations, and academia,

- Support for NIST’s workforce through education, training, retention & recruitment support, and professional development.

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