II Calendar No. 58 111th CONGRESS 1st Session S. 838 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 21, 2009 Mr. Lugar (for himself, Mr. Cardin, and Mr. Kerry) introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations May 7, 2009 Reported by Mr. Kerry, without amendment A BILL To provide for the appointment of United States Science Envoys.

1.

Findings

Congress finds the following: (1)The United States is the world’s leader in scientific research and discovery. (2)The United States has produced more Nobel Laureates than any other nation, including— (A)90 of the 192 Nobel Laureates in Medicine; (B)81 of the 183 Nobel Laureates in Physics; (C)43 of the 62 Nobel Laureates in Economics; and (D)59 of the 153 Nobel Laureates in Chemistry. (3)Consistent polling and scholarly research has shown that— (A)the nations of the world seek a relationship with the United States that is based on mutual respect; and (B)many of these nations, even nations that disagree with some aspects of United States foreign policy, admire the United States for its leadership in science and technology. (4)Science and technology provide an external reference around which nations can converge to foster an atmosphere of cooperation and mutual respect based upon the recognition that advances in science and technology are universally beneficial. (5)International scientific cooperation enhances relationships among participating countries by building trust and increasing understanding between countries and cultures through the collaborative nature of scientific dialogues. (6)The United States’ commitment to technological advances— (A)displays our Nation’s commitment to improving lives throughout the world; (B)mitigates some political controversy; and (C)offers other countries a tangible incentive to cooperate with the United States to improve the health and well-being of their citizens. (7)Short-term visits from renowned and respected American scientists can dramatically affect the standing of the United States among foreign countries. (8)International scientific cooperation— (A)produced successful engagements between United States and Soviet scientists throughout the 1970s and 1980s; and (B)assisted United States outreach efforts with the People’s Republic of China before official diplomatic ties were fully established. (9)Various nongovernmental organizations in the United States have been engaged in international scientific cooperation programs. These organizations include the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the Richard Lounsbery Foundation, and many major United States academic institutions.

2.

Educational and cultural exchange programs

(a)

In general

Under the authority, direction, and control of the President, the Secretary of State, in accordance with the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2451 et seq.), may increase the number of educational and cultural exchange activities involving persons from scientific, medicine, research, and academic sectors by— (1)establishing new programs under that Act; and (2)expanding the coverage of existing programs under that Act. (b)

Scientific envoy

The Secretary of State shall appoint United States Science Envoys to represent the commitment of the United States to collaborate with other countries to promote the advancement of science and technology throughout the world based on issues of common interest and expertise.

May 7, 2009 Reported without amendment