[Congressional Bills 110th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 1390 Engrossed in House (EH)]


                In the House of Representatives, U. S.,

                                                    September 22, 2008.
Whereas barely 18 percent of 12th grade students perform at or above the 
        proficient level in science;
Whereas the need for science education, especially outside the classroom, is 
        crucial to our country's ability to remain globally competitive;
Whereas today only 32.4 percent of undergraduates in the United States are 
        leaving college with a bachelor's degree in science or engineering, 
        compared to 63.3 percent in Japan, 62.1 percent in Germany, and 56.2 
        percent in China;
Whereas American businesses will face a competitive crisis with the advancing 
        science- and technology-driven global economy unless they have a 
        workforce that has been trained in scientific fields;
Whereas the future global economy will be driven by market sectors that are 
        based in science, engineering, and technology;
Whereas current scientists and engineers are retiring in record numbers, 
        creating a potentially large void of skilled workers;
Whereas 4-H and other out-of-school programs that focus on science, engineering 
        and technology are an important part of educating and developing leaders 
        who are well-trained and technically competent;
Whereas 4-H is preparing America's future workforce by developing their passion 
        for science, engineering, and technology at an early age;
Whereas 4-H's educational programs have an unparalleled reach of more than 
        6,000,000 youth in all 50 States;
Whereas 4-H, in partnership with more than 106 land-grant universities, shape 
        programs in the sciences that are important to today's workforce and 
        critical for managing the world's resources for years to come;
Whereas youth, parents, teachers, schools, and youth organizations have the 
        ability to participate in fun, accessible, science-related activities 
        that encourage youth exploration and experimentation at an early age; 
        and
Whereas October 8, 2008 would be an appropriate day to designate as 4-H National 
        Youth Science Day: Now, therefore, be it
    Resolved, That the House of Representatives--
            (1) expresses support for the designation of a 4-H National Youth 
        Science Day;
            (2) requests that the President issue a proclamation calling upon 
        the people of the United States to observe 4-H National Youth Science 
        Day;
            (3) encourages the people of the United States to observe the day 
        with appropriate ceremonies and activities; and
            (4) encourages young people of all ages and backgrounds to pursue 
        science studies and enter into science careers.
            Attest:

                                                                          Clerk.