The Science and Technology Action Committee (STAC), a non-partisan alliance of non-profit, academic, foundation and business leaders advocating for greater focus and funding of science and technology, issued the following statement in reaction to ongoing efforts in Congress to avert a government shutdown:
As the likelihood of a government shutdown increases with each passing day, the threat it poses to critical work supported by our nation’s premier science agencies cannot be ignored. Halting federally funded research and development — even just temporarily — means pressing pause on the progress that has established the United States as a global innovation powerhouse. Amid increased competition with China, it’s simply not a delay we can afford.
Boosting our national security, economic prosperity and global competitiveness requires not just significant investment, but consistent investment in science and technology, especially if we want to attract the brightest young minds to our field. Suspending research for any amount of time risks the United States falling behind on the advances with the potential to allow us to live longer, healthier lives and revolutionize the way we work.
We urge members of Congress to work together to avert a government shutdown and secure the funding we need to remain a global innovation leader. Ensuring that the next generation of scientific discoveries and technological advances are developed here at home is a top priority both sides of the aisle can agree on — and one that cannot wait.