II Calendar No. 411 109th CONGRESS 2d Session S. 2197 [Report No. 109–249] IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES January 26, 2006 Mr. Domenici (for himself, Mr. Bingaman, Mr. Alexander, Ms. Mikulski, Mr. Lugar, Mr. Dodd, Mr. Hatch, Mr. Obama, Mr. Warner, Mr. Lieberman, Mr. Bond, Mrs. Murray, Mr. Burns, Mr. Bayh, Mr. Craig, Ms. Cantwell, Mrs. Hutchison, Mr. Menendez, Mr. DeWine, Mr. Kohl, Mr. Thomas, Mr. Kerry, Mr. Smith, Mr. Nelson of Florida, Mr. Voinovich, Mr. Leahy, Mr. Allen, Mr. Akaka, Mr. Talent, Mrs. Clinton, Mr. Chambliss, Ms. Stabenow, Mr. Cornyn, Mr. Dayton, Mr. Coleman, Mr. Salazar, Mr. Martinez, Mr. Inouye, Mr. Stevens, Mr. Biden, Mr. Cochran, Mr. Hagel, Ms. Murkowski, Mr. Pryor, Ms. Collins, Mr. Vitter, Ms. Landrieu, Mr. Lautenberg, Mr. Johnson, Mr. McConnell, Ms. Snowe, Mr. Specter, Mr. Reed, Mr. Frist, Mr. Schumer, Mr. Dorgan, Mr. Sarbanes, Mr. Reid, Mr. Rockefeller, Mr. Carper, Mr. Bunning, Mr. Burr, Mr. Grassley, Mr. Harkin, Mrs. Lincoln, Mrs. Boxer, and Mr. Crapo) introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources April 24, 2006 Reported by Mr. Domenici, with an amendment Strike out all after the enacting clause and insert the part printed in italic A BILL To improve the global competitiveness of the United States in science and energy technology, to strengthen basic research programs at the Department of Energy, and to provide support for mathematics and science education at all levels through the resources available through the Department of Energy, including at the National Laboratories.
1.
Short title
This Act may be cited as the Protecting America’s Competitive Edge Through Energy Act of 2006 or the PACE–Energy Act.
2.
Mathematics, science, and engineering education at the Department of Energy
(a)
Science education programs
Section 3164 of the Department of Energy Science Education Enhancement Act (42 U.S.C. 7381a) is amended— (1)by redesignating subsections (b) through (d) as subsections (c) through (e), respectively; (2)by inserting after subsection (a) the following: (b)
Organization of mathematics, science, and engineering education programs
(1)
Director of Mathematics, Science and Engineering Education
The Secretary, acting through the Under Secretary for Science (referred to in this subsection as the Under Secretary), shall appoint a Director of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education (referred to in this subsection as the Director) with the principal responsibility for administering mathematics, science, and engineering education programs of the Department. (2)
Qualifications
The Director shall be an individual, who by reason of professional background and experience, is specially qualified to advise the Under Secretary on all matters pertaining to mathematics, science, and engineering education at the Department. (3)
Duties
The Director shall— (A)oversee all mathematics, science, and engineering education programs of the Department; (B)represent the Department as the principal interagency liaison for all mathematics, science, and engineering education programs, unless otherwise represented by the Secretary or the Under Secretary; (C)prepare the annual budget and advise the Under Secretary on all budgetary issues for mathematics, science, and engineering education programs of the Department; and (D)perform other such matters related to mathematics, science, and engineering education as are required by the Secretary or the Under Secretary. (4)
Staff and other resources
The Secretary shall assign to the Director such personnel and other resources as the Secretary considers necessary to permit the Director to carry out the duties of the Director. (5)
Assessment
The Secretary shall offer to enter into a contract with the National Academy of Sciences under which the National Academy, not later than 5 years after, and not later than 10 years after, the date of enactment of this paragraph, shall assess the performance of the mathematics, science, and engineering education programs of the Department. (6)
Authorization of appropriations
There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this subsection. ; and (3)by striking subsection (d) (as redesignated by paragraph (1)) and inserting the following: (d)
Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education Fund
The Secretary shall establish a Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education Fund, using not less than 0.3 percent of the amount made available to the Department for research, development, demonstration, and commercial application for each fiscal year, to carry out sections 3165, 3166, and 3167. . (b)
Definition
Section 3168 of the Department of Energy Science Education Enhancement Act (42 U.S.C. 7381d) is amended by adding at the end the following: (5)
National Laboratory
The term National Laboratory has the meaning given the term in section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 15801). . (c)
Mathematics, science, and engineering education programs
The Department of Energy Science Education Enhancement Act (42 U.S.C. 7381 et seq.) is amended— (1)by inserting after section 3162 the following: A
Science education enhancement
; (2)in section 3169, by striking part and inserting subpart; and (3)by adding at the end the following: B
Mathematics, science, and engineering education programs
3170.
Definitions
In this subpart: (1)
Director
The term Director means the Director of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education. (2)
National laboratory
The term National Laboratory has the meaning given the term in section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 15801).
1
Assistance for specialty schools for mathematics and science
3171.
Assistance for specialty schools for mathematics and science
(a)
In general
Consistent with sections 3165 and 3166, the Director shall make available necessary funds for a program using scientific and engineering staff of the National Laboratories, in which the staff— (1)assists teaching courses at statewide specialty secondary schools that provide comprehensive mathematics and science (including engineering) education; and (2)uses National Laboratory scientific equipment in the teaching of the courses. (b)
Report to Congress
Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of the Protecting America’s Competitive Edge Through Energy Act of 2006, the Director shall submit a report to the appropriate committees of Congress detailing the impact of the activities assisted with funds made available under this section.
2
Experiential-Based Learning Opportunities
3175.
Experiential-based learning opportunities
(a)
Internships authorized
From the amounts authorized under subsection (d), the Secretary, acting through the Director, shall establish a summer internship program for middle school and secondary school students that shall— (1)provide the students with internships at the National Laboratories; and (2)promote experiential, hands-on learning in mathematics or science. (b)
Eligibility criteria
The Director shall establish criteria to determine the sufficient level of academic preparedness necessary for a student to be eligible for an internship under this section. (c)
Priority
(1)
In general
The Director shall give priority for an internship under this section to a student who meets the eligibility criteria described in subsection (b) and who attends a school— (A)(i)in which not less than 40 percent of the children enrolled in the school are from low-income families; or (ii)that is designated with a school locale code of 7 or 8, as determined by the Secretary of Education; and (B)for which there is— (i)a high percentage of teachers who are not teaching in the academic subject areas or grade levels in which the teachers were trained to teach; (ii)a high teacher turnover rate; or (iii)a high percentage of teachers with emergency, provisional, or temporary certification or licenses. (2)
Coordination
The Director shall consult with the Secretary of Education in order to determine whether a student meets the priority requirements of this subsection. (d)
Authorization of appropriations
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $50,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2007 through 2013.
3
National Laboratories Centers of Excellence in Mathematics and Science Education
3181.
National Laboratories Centers of Excellence in Mathematics and Science Education
(a)
In general
The Secretary shall establish at each of the National Laboratories a program to support a Center of Excellence in Mathematics and Science at 1 public secondary school located in the region of the National Laboratory to provide assistance in accordance with subsection (c). (b)
Goals
The Secretary shall establish goals and performance assessments for each Center of Excellence authorized under subsection (a). (c)
Assistance
Consistent with sections 3165 and 3166, the Director shall make available necessary funds for a program using scientific and engineering staff of the National Laboratories, during which the staff— (1)assists teaching courses at the Centers of Excellence in Mathematics and Science; and (2)uses National Laboratory scientific equipment in the teaching of the courses. (d)
Evaluation
The Secretary shall consider the results of the performance assessments required under subsection (b) in any performance review of a National Laboratories management and operations contractor.
4
Summer Institutes
3185.
Summer institutes
(a)
Definition of summer institute
In this section, the term summer institute means an institute at a National Laboratory, conducted during the summer, that— (1)is conducted for a period of not less than 2 weeks; (2)includes, as a component, a program that provides direct interaction between students and faculty; and (3)provides for follow-up training during the academic year. (b)
Summer institute programs authorized
The Secretary, acting through the Director, shall establish or expand program of summer institutes at each of the National Laboratories to provide additional training to strengthen the mathematics and science teaching skills of teachers employed at public schools in kindergarten through grade 12 education, with a particular focus on teachers of kindergarten through grade 8.
5
Distinguished scientist program
3191.
Distinguished scientist program
(a)
Purpose
The purpose of this section is to promote scientific and academic excellence at National Laboratories. (b)
Establishment
The Secretary, acting through the Director and in consultation with the Director of the Office of Science, shall establish a program to support the appointment of distinguished scientists by National Laboratories. (c)
Qualifications
Successful candidates under this section shall be persons who, by reason of professional background and experience, are able to bring international recognition to the appointing National Laboratory in their field of scientific endeavor. (d)
Selection
A distinguished scientist appointed under this section shall be selected through an open peer review process. (e)
Appointment
An appointment by a National Laboratory under this section shall be at the rank of the highest grade of distinguished scientist or technical staff of the National Laboratory. (f)
Duration
An appointment under this section shall be for 6 years, consisting of 2 3-year funding allotments. (g)
Use of funds
Funds made available under this section may be used for— (1)the salary of the distinguished scientist and support staff; (2)undergraduate, graduate, and post-doctoral appointments; (3)research-related equipment; (4)professional travel; and (5)such other requirements as the Director determines are necessary to carry out the purpose of the program. (h)
Review
(1)
In general
The appointment of a distinguished scientist under this section shall be reviewed at the end of the first 3-year allotment for the distinguished scientist through an open peer review process to determine if the appointment is meeting the purpose of this section under subsection (a). (2)
Funding
Funding of the appointment of the distinguished scientist for the second 3-year allotment shall be determined based on the review conducted under paragraph (1).
.
3.
Department of Energy early-career research grants
(a)
Purpose
It is the purpose of this section to authorize research grants in the Department of Energy for early-career scientists and engineers for purposes of pursuing independent research. (b)
Definition of eligible early-career researcher
In this section, the term eligible early-career researcher means an individual who— (1)completed a doctorate or other terminal degree not more than 10 years before the date of enactment of this Act and has demonstrated promise in the field of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics; or (2)has an equivalent professional qualification in the field of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. (c)
Grant program authorized
(1)
In general
The Secretary of Energy, through the Director of the Office of Science of the Department of Energy, shall award not less than 65 grants per year to outstanding eligible early-career researchers to support the work of such researchers in the Department, particularly the National Laboratories, or other federally-funded research and development centers. (2)
Application
An eligible early-career researcher who desires to receive a grant under this section shall submit to the Secretary of Energy an application at such time, in such manner, and accompanied by such information as the Secretary may require. (3)
Special consideration
In awarding grants under this section, the Secretary of Energy shall give special consideration to eligible early-career researchers who have followed alternative career paths such as working part-time or in non-academic settings, or who have taken a significant career break or other leave of absence. (4)
Duration and amount
A grant under this section shall be 5 years in duration. An eligible early career-researcher who receives a grant under this section shall receive $100,000 for each year of the grant period. (5)
Use of funds
An eligible early career-researcher who receives a grant under this section shall use the grant funds for basic research in natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, or computer sciences at the Department of Energy, particularly the National Laboratories, or other federally-funded research and development center. (6)
Authorization of appropriations
There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section— (A)$6,500,000 for fiscal year 2007; (B)$13,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; (C)$19,500,000 for fiscal year 2009; (D)$26,000,000 for fiscal year 2010; and (E)$32,500,000 for fiscal year 2011.
4.
Advanced Research Projects Authority-Energy
(a)
Definitions
In this section: (1)
ARPA–E
The term ARPA–E means the Advanced Research Projects Authority—Energy established under subsection (b). (2)
Fund
The term Fund means the Acceleration Fund for Research and Development of Energy Technologies established under subsection (c). (3)
Secretary
The term Secretary means the Secretary of Energy. (4)
Under Secretary
The term Under Secretary means the position of Under Secretary for Science established under section 202(b) of the Department of Energy Organization Act (42 U.S.C. 7132(b)). (b)
ARPA–E
(1)
Establishment
There is established the Advanced Research Projects Authority—Energy. (2)
Director
ARPA–E shall be headed by a Director, who shall be appointed by the Secretary and report to the Under Secretary. (3)
Responsibilities
The Director shall use the Fund to award competitive, merit-based grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts to public or private entities (including businesses, federally funded research and development centers, and institutions of higher education) to— (A)support basic and applied energy research to promote revolutionary changes in technologies that would promote the missions of the Department of Energy; (B)advance the development, testing, evaluation, and deployment of critical energy technologies; and (C)accelerate prototyping and development of technologies that would address national energy priorities. (4)
Targeted competitions
The Director may solicit proposals to address areas of national need in science and energy technology, as identified by the Director. (5)
Coordination
The Director— (A)shall ensure that the activities of ARPA–E are coordinated with activities of other appropriate research agencies; and (B)may carry out projects under this section jointly with other agencies. (6)
Personnel
(A)
In general
In hiring personnel for ARPA–E, the Secretary shall have the hiring and management authorities described in section 1101 of the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 (Public Law 105–261; 5 U.S.C. 3104 note). (B)
Term
The term of appointments for an employee under subparagraph (A) may not exceed 5 years, except that the Secretary may renew the term of appointment of the employee for an additional term of 5 years. (7)
Demonstrations
The Director shall periodically hold energy technology demonstrations to improve contact among technology developers, vendors, and acquisition personnel. (c)
Fund
(1)
Establishment
There is established in the Treasury of the United States a revolving fund, to be known as the Acceleration Fund for Research and Development of Energy Technologies, consisting of— (A)such amounts as are appropriated to the Fund under paragraph (5); and (B)any interest earned on investment of amounts in the Fund under paragraph (3). (2)
Expenditures from Fund
(A)
In general
Subject to subparagraph (B), on request by the Director, the Secretary of the Treasury shall transfer from the Fund to the Director such amounts as the Director determines are necessary to carry out this section. (B)
Administrative expenses
An amount not exceeding 5 percent of the amounts in the Fund shall be available for each fiscal year to pay the administrative expenses necessary to carry out this section. (3)
Investment of amounts
(A)
In general
The Secretary of the Treasury shall invest such portion of the Fund as is not, in the judgment of the Secretary of the Treasury, required to meet current withdrawals. (B)
Interest-bearing obligations
Investments may be made only in interest-bearing obligations of the United States. (C)
Acquisition of obligations
For the purpose of investments under subparagraph (A), obligations may be acquired— (i)on original issue at the issue price; or (ii)by purchase of outstanding obligations at the market price. (D)
Sale of obligations
Any obligation acquired by the Fund may be sold by the Secretary of the Treasury at the market price. (E)
Credits to Fund
The interest on, and the proceeds from the sale or redemption of, any obligations held in the Fund shall be credited to, and form a part of, the Fund. (4)
Transfers of amounts
(A)
In general
The amounts required to be transferred to the Fund under this subsection shall be transferred at least monthly from the general fund of the Treasury to the Fund on the basis of estimates made by the Secretary of the Treasury. (B)
Adjustments
Proper adjustment shall be made in amounts subsequently transferred to the extent prior estimates were in excess of or less than the amounts required to be transferred. (5)
Authorization of appropriations
There are authorized to be appropriated to the Fund— (A)$300,000,000 for fiscal year 2007; (B)$500,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; (C)$700,000,000 for fiscal year 2009; (D)$900,000,000 for fiscal year 2010; and (E)$1,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2011.
5.
Authorization of appropriations for the Department of Energy for basic research
Section 971(b) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16311(b)) is amended— (1)in paragraph (2), by striking and at the end; (2)in paragraph (3), by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon; and (3)by adding at the end the following: (4)$5,320,000,000 for fiscal year 2010; (5)$5,851,000,000 for fiscal year 2011; (6)$6,436,000,000 for fiscal year 2012; and (7)$7,080,000,000 for fiscal year 2013. .
1.
Short title
This Act may be cited as the Protecting America’s Competitive Edge Through Energy Act of 2006 or the PACE–Energy Act.
2.
Definitions
In this Act: (1)
Department
The term Department means the Department of Energy. (2)
Institution of higher education
The term institution of higher education has the meaning given the term in section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 15801). (3)
National Laboratory
The term National Laboratory has the meaning given the term in section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 15801). (4)
Secretary
The term Secretary means the Secretary of Energy, acting through the Under Secretary for Science appointed under section 202(b) of the Department of Energy Organization Act (42 U.S.C. 7132(b)).
3.
Mathematics, science, and engineering education at the Department of Energy
(a)
Science education programs
Section 3164 of the Department of Energy Science Education Enhancement Act (42 U.S.C. 7381a) is amended— (1)by redesignating subsections (b) through (d) as subsections (c) through (e), respectively; (2)by inserting after subsection (a) the following: (b)
Organization of mathematics, science, and engineering education programs
(1)
Director of Mathematics, Science and Engineering Education
The Secretary, acting through the Under Secretary for Science (referred to in this subsection as the Under Secretary), shall appoint a Director of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education (referred to in this subsection as the Director) with the principal responsibility for administering mathematics, science, and engineering education programs of the Department. (2)
Qualifications
The Director shall be an individual, who by reason of professional background and experience, is specially qualified to advise the Under Secretary on all matters pertaining to mathematics, science, and engineering education at the Department. (3)
Duties
The Director shall— (A)oversee all mathematics, science, and engineering education programs of the Department; (B)represent the Department as the principal interagency liaison for all mathematics, science, and engineering education programs, unless otherwise represented by the Secretary or the Under Secretary; (C)prepare the annual budget and advise the Under Secretary on all budgetary issues for mathematics, science, and engineering education programs of the Department; (D)increase, to the maximum extent practicable, the participation and advancement of women and underrepresented minorities at every level of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education; and (E)perform other such matters related to mathematics, science, and engineering education as are required by the Secretary or the Under Secretary. (4)
Staff and other resources
The Secretary shall assign to the Director such personnel and other resources as the Secretary considers necessary to permit the Director to carry out the duties of the Director. (5)
Assessment
The Secretary shall offer to enter into a contract with the National Academy of Sciences under which the National Academy, not later than 5 years after, and not later than 10 years after, the date of enactment of this paragraph, shall assess the performance of the mathematics, science, and engineering education programs of the Department. (6)
Authorization of appropriations
There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this subsection. ; and (3)by striking subsection (d) (as redesignated by paragraph (1)) and inserting the following: (d)
Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education Fund
The Secretary shall establish a Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education Fund, using not less than 0.3 percent of the amount made available to the Department for research, development, demonstration, and commercial application for each fiscal year, to carry out sections 3165, 3166, and 3167. . (b)
Definition
Section 3168 of the Department of Energy Science Education Enhancement Act (42 U.S.C. 7381d) is amended by adding at the end the following: (5)
National Laboratory
The term National Laboratory has the meaning given the term in section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 15801). . (c)
Mathematics, science, and engineering education programs
The Department of Energy Science Education Enhancement Act (42 U.S.C. 7381 et seq.) is amended— (1)by inserting after section 3162 the following: A
Science education enhancement
; (2)in section 3169, by striking part and inserting subpart; and (3)by adding at the end the following: B
Mathematics, science, and engineering education programs
3170.
Definitions
In this subpart: (1)
Director
The term Director means the Director of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education. (2)
National laboratory
The term National Laboratory has the meaning given the term in section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 15801).
1
Assistance for specialty schools for mathematics and science
3171.
Assistance for specialty schools for mathematics and science
(a)
In general
Consistent with sections 3165 and 3166, the Director shall make available necessary funds for a program using scientific and engineering staff of the National Laboratories, in which the staff— (1)assists teaching courses at statewide specialty secondary schools that provide comprehensive mathematics and science (including engineering) education; and (2)uses National Laboratory scientific equipment in the teaching of the courses. (b)
Report to Congress
Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of the Protecting America’s Competitive Edge Through Energy Act of 2006, the Director shall submit a report to the appropriate committees of Congress detailing the impact of the activities assisted with funds made available under this section.
2
Experiential-Based Learning Opportunities
3175.
Experiential-based learning opportunities
(a)
Internships authorized
From the amounts authorized under subsection (e), the Secretary, acting through the Director, shall establish a summer internship program for middle school and secondary school students that shall— (1)provide the students with internships at the National Laboratories; and (2)promote experiential, hands-on learning in mathematics or science. (b)
Eligibility criteria
The Director shall establish criteria to determine the sufficient level of academic preparedness necessary for a student to be eligible for an internship under this section. (c)
Priority
(1)
In general
The Director shall give priority for an internship under this section to a student who meets the eligibility criteria described in subsection (b) and who attends a school— (A)(i)in which not less than 30 percent of the children enrolled in the school are from low-income families; or (ii)that is designated with a school locale code of 7 or 8 or otherwise designated as a rural school, as determined by the Secretary of Education; and (B)for which there is— (i)a high percentage of teachers who are not teaching in the academic subject areas or grade levels in which the teachers were trained to teach; (ii)a high teacher turnover rate; or (iii)a high percentage of teachers with emergency, provisional, or temporary certification or licenses. (2)
Coordination
The Director shall consult with the Secretary of Education in order to determine whether a student meets the priority requirements of this subsection. (d)
Outreach and experiential-based programs for minority students
(1)
In general
The Secretary, acting through the Director, in cooperation with Hispanic-serving institutions, historically Black colleges and universities, tribal colleges, and other minority-serving institutions and nonprofit entities with substantial experience relating to outreach and experiential-based learning projects, shall establish outreach and experiential-based learning programs that will encourage underrepresented minority students in kindergarten through grade 12 to pursue careers in math, science, and engineering. (2)
Community involvement
The Secretary shall ensure that the programs established under paragraph (1) involve, to the maximum extent practicable— (A)participation by parents and educators; and (B)the establishment of partnerships with business organizations and appropriate Federal, State, and local agencies. (3)
Distribution
The Secretary shall ensure that the programs established under paragraph (1) are located in various geographic regions of the United States, to the maximum extent practicable. (e)
Authorization of appropriations
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $50,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2007 through 2013.
3
National Laboratories Centers of Excellence in Mathematics and Science Education
3181.
National Laboratories Centers of Excellence in Mathematics and Science Education
(a)
In general
The Secretary shall establish at each of the National Laboratories a program to support a Center of Excellence in Mathematics and Science at 1 public secondary school located in the region of the National Laboratory to provide assistance in accordance with subsection (c). (b)
Goals
The Secretary shall establish goals and performance assessments for each Center of Excellence authorized under subsection (a). (c)
Assistance
Consistent with sections 3165 and 3166, the Director shall make available necessary funds for a program using scientific and engineering staff of the National Laboratories, during which the staff— (1)assists teaching courses at the Centers of Excellence in Mathematics and Science; and (2)uses National Laboratory scientific equipment in the teaching of the courses. (d)
Evaluation
The Secretary shall consider the results of the performance assessments required under subsection (b) in any performance review of a National Laboratories management and operations contractor.
4
Summer Institutes
3185.
Summer institutes
(a)
Definition of summer institute
In this section, the term summer institute means an institute at a National Laboratory, conducted during the summer, that— (1)is conducted for a period of not less than 2 weeks; (2)includes, as a component, a program that provides direct interaction between students and faculty; and (3)provides for follow-up training during the academic year. (b)
Summer institute programs authorized
The Secretary, acting through the Director, shall establish or expand program of summer institutes at each of the National Laboratories to provide additional training to strengthen the mathematics and science teaching skills of teachers employed at public schools in kindergarten through grade 12 education, with a particular focus on teachers of kindergarten through grade 8.
5
Distinguished scientist program
3191.
Distinguished scientist program
(a)
Purpose
The purpose of this section is to promote scientific and academic excellence at National Laboratories. (b)
Establishment
The Secretary, acting through the Director and in consultation with the Director of the Office of Science, shall establish a program to support the appointment of distinguished scientists by National Laboratories. (c)
Qualifications
Successful candidates under this section shall be persons who, by reason of professional background and experience, are able to bring international recognition to the appointing National Laboratory in their field of scientific endeavor. (d)
Selection
A distinguished scientist appointed under this section shall be selected through an open peer review process. (e)
Appointment
An appointment by a National Laboratory under this section shall be at the rank of the highest grade of distinguished scientist or technical staff of the National Laboratory. (f)
Duration
An appointment under this section shall be for 6 years, consisting of 2 3-year funding allotments. (g)
Use of funds
Funds made available under this section may be used for— (1)the salary of the distinguished scientist and support staff; (2)undergraduate, graduate, and post-doctoral appointments; (3)research-related equipment; (4)professional travel; and (5)such other requirements as the Director determines are necessary to carry out the purpose of the program. (h)
Review
(1)
In general
The appointment of a distinguished scientist under this section shall be reviewed at the end of the first 3-year allotment for the distinguished scientist through an open peer review process to determine if the appointment is meeting the purpose of this section under subsection (a). (2)
Funding
Funding of the appointment of the distinguished scientist for the second 3-year allotment shall be determined based on the review conducted under paragraph (1).
6
Nuclear science education
3195.
Nuclear science talent expansion program for institutions of higher education
(a)
Purposes
The purposes of this section are— (1)to address the decline in the number of and resources available to nuclear science programs of institutions of higher education; and (2)to increase the number of graduates with degrees in nuclear science, an area of strategic importance to the economic competitiveness and energy security of the United States. (b)
Definition of nuclear science
In this section, the term nuclear science includes— (1)nuclear science; (2)nuclear engineering; (3)nuclear chemistry; (4)radiochemistry; and (5)health physics. (c)
Establishment
The Secretary, acting through the Director, shall establish in accordance with this section a program to expand and enhance institution of higher education nuclear science educational capabilities. (d)
Nuclear science program expansion grants for institutions of higher education
(1)
In general
The Secretary, acting through the Director, shall award up to 3 competitive grants for each fiscal year to institutions of higher education that establish new academic degree programs in nuclear science. (2)
Eligibility
To be eligible for a grant under this subsection, an applicant shall partner with a National Laboratory or other eligible nuclear entity, as determined by the Secretary. (3)
Criteria
Criteria for a grant awarded under this subsection shall be based on— (A)the potential to attract new students to the program; (B)academic rigor; and (C)the ability to offer hands-on learning opportunities. (4)
Duration and amount
(A)
Duration
A grant under this subsection shall be 5 years in duration. (B)
Amount
An institution of higher education that receives a grant under this subsection shall be eligible for up to $500,000 for each year of the grant period. (5)
Use of funds
An institution of higher education that receives a grant under this subsection may use the grant to— (A)recruit and retain new faculty; (B)develop core and specialized course content; (C)encourage collaboration between faculty and researchers in the nuclear science field; or (D)support outreach efforts to recruit students. (e)
Nuclear science competitiveness grants for institutions of higher education
(1)
In general
The Secretary, acting through the Director shall award up to 10 competitive grants for each fiscal year to institutions of higher education with existing academic degree programs that produce graduates in nuclear science. (2)
Criteria
Criteria for a grant awarded under this subsection shall be based on the potential for increasing the number and academic quality of graduates in the nuclear sciences that enter into careers in nuclear-related fields. (3)
Duration and amount
(A)
Duration
A grant under this subsection shall be 5 years in duration. (B)
Amount
An institution of higher education that receives a grant under this subsection shall be eligible for up to $250,000 for each year of the grant period. (4)
Use of funds
An institution of higher education that receives a grant under this subsection may use the grant to— (A)increase the number of graduates in nuclear science that enter into careers in the nuclear science field; (B)enhance the teaching of advanced nuclear technologies; (C)aggressively pursue collaboration opportunities with industry and National Laboratories; and (D)bolster or sustain nuclear infrastructure and research facilities of the institution of higher education, such as research and training reactors or laboratories. (f)
Nuclear science talent expansion scholarships
(1)
In general
The Secretary, acting through the Director, shall award up to 150 competitive scholarships for each fiscal year to be used to provide for educational expenses for students at eligible institutions of higher education who enter into academic degree programs in nuclear science. (2)
Criteria
Scholarships under this subsection shall be awarded competitively based on academic merit. (3)
Duration and amount
(A)
Duration
Scholarship assistance under this subsection may be awarded for up to 4 years. (B)
Amount
A student who receives a grant under this subsection shall be eligible for up to $40,000 for each year of the scholarship period to be used for educational expenses (including tuition, books, fees, equipment, room, and board). (4)
Termination
A student who receives a scholarship under this subsection but fails to maintain appropriate academic achievement for a year, as determined by the Director, shall not be eligible for a scholarship under this subsection for subsequent years. (5)
Internship
The Secretary shall ensure that each student who receives a scholarship under this subsection has the opportunity to participate in an internship at a National Laboratory during the course of study of the student. (g)
Authorization of appropriations
(1)
Nuclear science program expansion grants for institutions of higher education
There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out subsection (d)— (A)$1,500,000 for fiscal year 2007; (B)$3,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; (C)$4,500,000 for fiscal year 2009; (D)$6,000,000 for fiscal year 2010; and (E)$7,500,000 for fiscal year 2011. (2)
Nuclear science competitiveness grants for institutions of higher education
There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out subsection (e)— (A)$2,500,000 for fiscal year 2007; (B)$5,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; (C)$7,500,000 for fiscal year 2009; (D)$10,000,000 for fiscal year 2010; and (E)$12,500,000 for fiscal year 2011. (3)
Nuclear science talent expansion scholarships
There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out subsection (f)— (A)$6,000,000 for fiscal year 2007; (B)$12,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; (C)$18,000,000 for fiscal year 2009; (D)$24,000,000 for fiscal year 2010; and (E)$30, 000,000 for fiscal year 2011.
.
4.
Department of Energy early-career research grants
(a)
Purpose
It is the purpose of this section to authorize research grants in the Department for early-career scientists and engineers for purposes of pursuing independent research. (b)
Definition of eligible early-career researcher
In this section, the term eligible early-career researcher means an individual who— (1)completed a doctorate or other terminal degree not more than 10 years before the date of application for a grant authorized under this section; and (2)has demonstrated promise in the field of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, computer science, or computational science. (c)
Grant program authorized
(1)
In general
The Secretary shall award not less than 65 grants per year to outstanding eligible early-career researchers to support the work of such researchers in the Department, particularly the National Laboratories, or other federally-funded research and development centers. (2)
Application
An eligible early-career researcher who desires to receive a grant under this section shall submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and accompanied by such information as the Secretary may require. (3)
Special consideration
In awarding grants under this section, the Secretary shall give special consideration to eligible early-career researchers who have followed alternative career paths such as working part-time or in non-academic settings, or who have taken a significant career break or other leave of absence. (4)
Duration and amount
A grant under this section shall be 5 years in duration. An eligible early career-researcher who receives a grant under this section shall receive $100,000 for each year of the grant period. (5)
Use of funds
An eligible early career-researcher who receives a grant under this section shall use the grant funds for basic research in natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, or computer sciences at the Department, particularly the National Laboratories, or other federally-funded research and development center. (6)
Authorization of appropriations
There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section— (A)$6,500,000 for fiscal year 2007; (B)$13,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; (C)$19,500,000 for fiscal year 2009; (D)$26,000,000 for fiscal year 2010; and (E)$32,500,000 for fiscal year 2011.
5.
Advanced Research Projects Authority-Energy
(a)
Definitions
In this section: (1)
Advisory Board
The term Advisory Board means the Advisory Board established under subsection (d). (2)
Applied energy technology
The term applied technology means technology used for— (A)fossil energy; (B)carbon sequestration; (C)nuclear energy; (D)renewable energy; (E)energy distribution; or (F)energy efficiency technology. (3)
Authority
The term Authority means the Advanced Research Projects Authority—Energy established under subsection (b). (4)
Director
The term Director means the Director of the Authority appointed under subsection (c)(1). (b)
Establishment
The Secretary shall establish an Advanced Research Projects Authority-Energy to overcome the long-term and high-risk technological barriers in the development of applied energy technologies (including carbon neutral technologies) that hinder the successful implementation of the technologies in commercial markets. (c)
Director
(1)
Appointment
The Secretary shall appoint a Director of the Authority. (2)
Qualifications
The Director shall be an individual who, by reason of professional background and experience, is especially qualified to advise the Secretary on matters pertaining to long-term, high-risk programs to overcome long-term and high-risk technological barriers to the development of applied energy technologies in commercial markets. (3)
Duties
The Director shall— (A)employ such qualified technical staff as are necessary to carry out the duties of the Authority, including providing staff for the Advisory Committee; (B)serve as the selection official for proposals relating to applied energy technologies that are solicited within the Department; (C)terminate programs carried out under this section that are not achieving the goals of the programs; and (D)perform such duties related to long-term and high-risk technological barriers in the development of applied energy technologies as are determined appropriate by the Secretary. (d)
Advisory Board
(1)
Appointment
The Secretary shall, consistent with the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.), establish, and appoint members to, an Advisory Board to make recommendations to the Secretary and the Director on actions necessary to carry out this section. (2)
Qualifications
The Advisory Board shall consist of individuals who— (A)by reason of professional background and experience, are especially qualified to advise the Secretary and the Director on matters pertaining to long-term and high-risk technological barriers in the development of applied energy technologies in commercial markets; and (B)are not employees or former employees of the Federal Government. (3)
Term
A member of the Advisory Board shall be appointed for a term of 5 years. (4)
Information
Each fiscal year, individuals who carry out applied energy technology programs of the Department and staff of the Authority shall provide to the Advisory Board written proposals and oral briefings on long-term and high-risk technological barriers that are critical to overcome for the successful development of applied energy technologies in commercial markets. (5)
Duties
Each fiscal year, the Advisory Board shall— (A)recommend to the Secretary and the Director— (i)in order of priority, proposals of applied energy programs of the Department that are critical to overcoming long-term and high-risk technological barriers to enable the successful development of applied energy technologies in commercial markets; and (ii)additional programs not covered in the proposals that are critical to overcoming the barriers described in clause (i); and (B)make recommendations to the Secretary and the Directory concerning whether programs funded under this section are achieving the goals of the programs. (e)
Review
Not later than 3 and 6 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall enter into an agreement with the National Academy of Sciences under which the Academy shall— (1)conduct a review to determine whether the activities carried out under this section are overcoming long-term and high risk technological barriers to the successful implementation of applied energy technologies in commercial markets; and (2)submit to Congress, the Secretary, and the Director a report describing the results of the review. (f)
Authorization of appropriations
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $250,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2011.
6.
Authorization of appropriations for the Department of Energy for basic research
Section 971(b) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16311(b)) is amended— (1)in paragraph (2), by striking and at the end; (2)in paragraph (3), by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon; and (3)by adding at the end the following: (4)$5,320,000,000 for fiscal year 2010; (5)$5,851,000,000 for fiscal year 2011; (6)$6,436,000,000 for fiscal year 2012; and (7)$7,080,000,000 for fiscal year 2013. .
7.
Discovery science and engineering innovation institutes
(a)
In general
The Secretary shall establish distributed, multidisciplinary institutes (referred to in this section as Institutes) centered at National Laboratories to apply fundamental science and engineering discoveries to technological innovations for the creation of products, processes, and services related to the missions of the Department and the global competitiveness of the United States. (b)
Topical areas
The Institutes shall support scientific and engineering research and education activities on critical emerging technologies determined by the Secretary to be essential to global competitiveness, including activities related to— (1)sustainable energy technologies; (2)multi-scale materials and processes; (3)micro- and nano-engineering; (4)computational and information engineering; and (5)genomics and proteomics. (c)
Partnerships
In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall establish partnerships between the Institutes and— (1)institutions of higher education to— (A)train undergraduate and graduate engineering and science students; (B)develop innovative educational curricula; and (C)conduct research within the topical areas described in subsection (b); (2)private industry to develop innovative technologies within the topical areas described in subsection (b); (3)State and local governments to promote regionally-based commercialization and entrepreneurship; and (4)financing entities to guide successful technology commercialization. (d)
Merit-based selection
The selection of Institutes under this section shall be based on merit. (e)
Review
Not later than 3 and 6 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall enter into an agreement with the National Academy of Sciences under which the Academy shall— (1)conduct a review of the performance of the Institutes under this section; and (2)submit to Congress and the Secretary a report describing the results of the review. (f)
Authorization of appropriations
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out the activities of each Institute selected under this section $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2013.
8.
Protecting America’s Competitive Edge (PACE) graduate fellowship program
(a)
Definition of eligible student
In this section, the term eligible student means a student who attends an institution of higher education that offers a doctoral degree in a field relevant to a mission area of the Department. (b)
Establishment
The Secretary shall establish a graduate fellowship program for eligible students pursuing a doctoral degree in a mission area of the Department. (c)
Selection
(1)
In general
The Secretary shall award fellowships to eligible students under this section through a competitive merit review process (involving written and oral interviews) that will result in a wide distribution of awards throughout the United States. (2)
Criteria
The Secretary shall establish selection criteria for awarding fellowships under this section that require an eligible student to— (A)pursue a field of science or engineering of importance to the mission area of the Department; (B)rank in the upper 10 percent of the class of the eligible student; (C)demonstrate to the Secretary— (i)the capacity to understand technical topics related to the fellowship that can be derived from the first principles of the technical topics; (ii)imagination and creativity; (iii)leadership skills in organizations or intellectual endeavors, demonstrated through awards and past experience; and (iv)excellent verbal and communication skills to explain, defend, and demonstrate an understanding of technical subjects related to the fellowship; and (D)be a citizen or permanent resident alien of the United States. (d)
Awards
(1)
Amount
A fellowship awarded under this section shall— (A)provide an annual living stipend; and (B)cover— (i)graduate tuition at an institution of higher education; and (ii)incidental expenses associated with curricula and research at the institution of higher education (including books, computers and software). (2)
Duration
A fellowship awarded under this section shall be for a period of not longer than 5 years. (3)
Portability
A fellowship awarded under this section shall be portable with the fellow. (e)
Administration
The Secretary (acting through the Director of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education)— (1)shall administer the program established under this section; and, (2)may enter into a contract with a nonprofit entity to administer the program, including the selection and award of fellowships. (f)
Revocation
(1)
In general
Nothing in this section prevents the Secretary from refusing or revoking a fellowship award, in whole or on part, in the case of any applicant or recipient, if the Secretary determines that such an award is not in the best interests of the United States. (2)
Non-delegable
The Secretary may not delegate a determination made under paragraph (1). (g)
Authorization of appropriations
(1)
Fellowships
There are authorized to be appropriated to award fellowships under this section— (A)$4,500,000 for 100 fellowships for fiscal year 2007; (B)$9,300,000 for 200 fellowships for fiscal year 2008 (including non-expiring fellowships for the prior fiscal year); (C)$14,500,000 for 300 fellowships for fiscal year 2009 (including non-expiring fellowships for prior fiscal years); (D)$25,000,000 for 500 fellowships for fiscal year 2010 (including non-expiring fellowships for prior fiscal years); (E)$35,500,000 for 700 fellowships for fiscal year 2011 (including non-expiring fellowships for prior fiscal years); (F)$52,500,000 for 1,000 fellowships for fiscal year 2012 (including non-expiring fellowships for prior fiscal years); and (G)$54,000,000 for 1,000 fellowships for fiscal year 2013 (including non-expiring fellowships for prior fiscal years). (2)
Administration
There are authorized to be appropriated for administrative expenses incurred in carrying out this section— (A)$1,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 and 2008; (B)$1,000,000 for fiscal year 2008; (C)$1,500,000 for fiscal year 2009; (D)$2,500,000 for fiscal year 2010; (E)$3,500,000 for fiscal year 2011; (F)$5,500,000 for fiscal year 2012; and (G)$5,500,000 for fiscal year 2013.
9.
Title IX compliance
(a)
In general
Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Energy shall submit to the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate a report that describes actions taken by the Department of Energy to implement the recommendations in the report of the Government Accountability Office numbered 04–639. (b)
Compliance
To comply with title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. 1681 et seq.), the Secretary of Energy shall annually conduct compliance reviews of at least 2 recipients of Department of Energy grants.
April 24, 2006 Reported with an amendment