Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Congressmen Matt Cartwright (PA-17) and Rodney Davis (IL-13) introduced the bipartisan Innovate America Act.
As innovation continues to be a catalyzing force in the American economy, the need for a workforce that is able to adjust is greater. This bill would help secure America’s standing in the global economy by boosting science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, thus laying the groundwork for future innovation.
“The United States has fallen behind in its efforts to compete in an increasingly competitive global economy,” said Rep. Cartwright. “This legislation not only devotes more resources into STEM fields, but also works to eliminate burdensome regulations, and provide our nation’s businesses with the workforce it needs to compete in today’s global economy.”
“The 13th District is home to several colleges and universities with quality STEM-focused programs that spur innovation and job creation,” said Rep. Davis. “The Innovate America Act builds upon these successful programs and extends STEM opportunities to high school students. Additionally, this legislation comes full circle by cutting government impediments to small manufacturers so more jobs will be available to graduates.”
Specifically, the Innovate America Act would: Improve STEM education by doubling the number of STEM-focused high schools; Promote computer science training and expanding research opportunities for undergraduates in STEM majors; Study the impact of STEM field retention programs for students; Establish a website for technology commercialization ideas; Establish a manufacturing assistance program aimed at assisting small and medium-sized businesses; Identify and call for removal of regulatory barriers for small and medium-sized manufacturers; Identify the regulatory barriers for top 20 exporting industries for the purpose of improving global competitiveness.
Rep. Matt Cartwright represents Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District, which includes Schuylkill County and portions of Carbon, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, and Northampton Counties. Cartwright serves on the House Committee on Natural Resources and the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
For Immediate Release
December 9, 2014
Contact: Shane Seaver
202-225-5546
