NATIONAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY, ORGANIZATION, AND PRIORITIES ACT OF 1976
NATIONAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
Public Law 94-282, as amended
NATIONAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY, ORGANIZATION, AND PRIORITIES ACT OF 1976
282
117–328
Statute Compilation
United States House of Representatives
Office of the Legislative Counsel
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National Science and Technology Policy, Organization, and Priorities Act of 1976
Presidential Science and Technology Advisory Organization Act of 1976
1865
94
1976-05-11
NATIONAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY, ORGANIZATION, AND PRIORITIES ACT OF 1976
[Public Law 94-282]
[As Amended Through P.L. 117–328, Enacted December 29, 2022]
[Currency: This publication is a compilation of the text of Public Law 94-282. It was last amended by the public law listed in the As Amended Through note above and below at the bottom of each page of the pdf version and reflects current law through the date of the enactment of the public law listed at https://www.govinfo.gov/app/collection/comps/]
[Note: While this publication does not represent an official version of any Federal statute, substantial efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of its contents. The official version of Federal law is found in the United States Statutes at Large and in the United States Code. The legal effect to be given to the Statutes at Large and the United States Code is established by statute (1 U.S.C. 112, 204).]

AN ACT
To establish a science and technology policy for the United States, to provide for scientific and technological advice and assistance to the President, to provide a comprehensive survey of ways and means for improving the Federal effort in scientific research and information handling, and in the use thereof, to amend the National Science Foundation Act of 1950, and for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
[42 U.S.C. 6601 note] That this Act may be cited as the “National Science and Technology Policy, Organization, and Priorities Act of 1976”.
TITLE I—

NATIONAL SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY AND PRIORITIES

findings
Sec. 101.
[42 U.S.C. 6601]
(a)
The Congress, recognizing the profound impact of science and technology on society, and the interrelations of scientific, technological, economic, social, political, and institutional factors, hereby finds and declares that—
(1)
the general welfare, the security, the economic health and stability of the Nation, the conservation and efficient utilization of its natural and human resources, and the effective functioning of government and society require vigorous, perceptive support and employment of science and technology in achieving national objectives;
(2)
the many large and complex scientific and technological factors which increasingly influence the course of national and international events require appropriate provision, involving long-range, inclusive planning as well as more immediate program development, to incorporate scientific and technological knowledge in the national decisionmaking process;
(3)
the scientific and technological capabilities of the United States, when properly fostered, applied, and directed, can effectively assist in improving the quality of life, in anticipating and resolving critical and emerging international, national, and local problems, in strengthening the Nation's international economic position, and in furthering its foreign policy objectives;
(4)
Federal funding for science and technology represents an investment in the future which is indispensable to sustained national progress and human betterment, and there should be a continuing national investment in science, engineering, and technology which is commensurate with national needs and opportunities and the prevalent economic situation;
(5)
the manpower pool of scientists, engineers, and technicians, constitutes an invaluable national resource which should be utilized to the fullest extent possible; and
(6)
the Nation's capabilities for technology assessment and for technological planning and policy formulation must be strengthened at both Federal and State levels.
(b)
As a consequence, the Congress finds and declares that science and technology should contribute to the following priority goals without being limited thereto:
(1)
fostering leadership in the quest for international peace and progress toward human freedom, dignity, and well-being by enlarging the contributions of American scientists and engineers to the knowledge of man and his universe, by making discoveries of basic science widely available at home and abroad, and by utilizing technology in support of United States national and foreign policy goals;
(2)
increasing the efficient use of essential materials and products, and generally contributing to economic opportunity, stability, and appropriate growth;
(3)
assuring an adequate supply of food, materials, and energy for the Nation's needs;
(4)
contributing to the national security;
(5)
improving the quality of health care available to all residents of the United States;
(6)
preserving, fostering, and restoring a healthful and esthetic natural environment;
(7)
providing for the protection of the oceans and coastal zones, and the polar regions, and the efficient utilization of their resources;
(8)
strengthening the economy and promoting full employment through useful scientific and technological innovations;
(9)
increasing the quality of educational opportunities available to all residents of the United States;
(10)
promoting the conservation and efficient utilization of the Nation's natural and human resources;
(11)
improving the Nation's housing, transportation, and communication systems, and assuring the provision of effective public services throughout urban, suburban, and rural areas;
(12)
eliminating air and water pollution, and unnecessary, unhealthful, or ineffective drugs and food additives; and
(13)
advancing the exploration and peaceful uses of outer space.

declaration of policy
Sec. 102.
[42 U.S.C. 6602]
(a)

Principles.—
In view of the foregoing, the Congress declares that the United States shall adhere to a national policy for science and technology which includes the following principles:
(1)
The continuing development and implementation of strategies for determining and achieving the appropriate scope, level, direction, and extent of scientific and technological efforts based upon a continuous appraisal of the role of science and technology in achieving goals and formulating policies of the United States, and reflecting the views of State and local governments and representative public groups.
(2)
The enlistment of science and technology to foster a healthy economy in which the directions of growth and innovation are compatible with the prudent and frugal use of resources and with the preservation of a benign environment.
(3)
The conduct of science and technology operations so as to serve domestic needs while promoting foreign policy objectives.
(4)
The recruitment, education, training, retraining, and beneficial use of adequate numbers of scientists, engineers, and technologists, and the promotion by the Federal Government of the effective and efficient utilization in the national interest of the Nation's human resources in science, engineering, and technology.
(5)
The development and maintenance of a solid base for science and technology in the United States, including: (A) strong participation of and cooperative relationships with State and local governments and the private sector; (B) the maintenance and strengthening of diversified scientific and technological capabilities in government, industry, and the universities, and the encouragement of independent initiatives based on such capabilities, together with elimination of needless barriers to scientific and technological innovation; (C) effective management and dissemination of scientific and technological information; (D) establishment of essential scientific, technical and industrial standards and measurement and test methods; and (E) promotion of increased public understanding of science and technology.
(6)
The recognition that, as changing circumstances require periodic revision and adaptation of title I of this Act, the Federal Government is responsible for identifying and interpreting the changes in those circumstances as they occur, and for effecting subsequent changes in title I as appropriate.
(b)

Implementation.—
To implement the policy enunciated in subsection (a) of this section, the Congress declares that:
(1)
The Federal Government should maintain central policy planning elements in the executive branch which assist Federal agencies in (A) identifying public problems and objectives, (B) mobilizing scientific and technological resources for essential national programs, (C) securing appropriate funding for programs so identified, (D) anticipating future concerns to which science and technology can contribute and devising strategies for the conduct of science and technology for such purposes, (E) reviewing systematically Federal science policy and programs and recommending legislative amendment thereof when needed. Such elements should include an advisory mechanism within the Executive Office of the President so that the Chief Executive may have available independent, expert judgment and assistance on policy matters which require accurate assessments of the complex scientific and technological features involved.
(2)
It is a responsibility of the Federal Government to promote prompt, effective, reliable, and systematic transfer of scientific and technological information by such appropriate methods as programs conducted by nongovernmental organizations, including industrial groups and technical societies. In particular, it is recognized as a responsibility of the Federal Government not only to coordinate and unify its own science and technology information systems, but to facilitate the close coupling of institutional scientific research with commercial application of the useful findings of science.
(3)
It is further an appropriate Federal function to support scientific and technological efforts which are expected to provide results beneficial to the public but which the private sector may be unwilling or unable to support.
(4)
Scientific and technological activities which may be properly supported exclusively by the Federal Government should be distinguished from those in which interests are shared with State and local governments and the private sector. Among these entities, cooperative relationships should be established which encourage the appropriate sharing of science and technology decisionmaking, funding support, and program planning and execution.
(5)
The Federal Government should support and utilize engineering and its various disciplines and make maximum use of the engineering community, whenever appropriate, as an essential element in the Federal policymaking process.
(6)
Comprehensive legislative support for the national science and technology effort requires that the Congress be regularly informed of the condition, health and vitality, and funding requirements of science and technology, the relation of science and technology to changing national goals, and the need for legislative modification of the Federal endeavor and structure at all levels as it relates to science and technology.
(c)

Procedures.—
The Congress declares that, in order to expedite and facilitate the implementation of the policy enunciated in subsection (a) of this section, the following coordinate procedures are of paramount importance:
(1)
Federal procurement policy should encourage the use of science and technology to foster frugal use of materials, energy, and appropriated funds; to assure quality environment; and to enhance product performance.
(2)
Explicit criteria, including cost-benefit principles where practicable, should be developed to identify the kinds of applied research and technology programs that are appropriate for Federal funding support and to determine the extent of such support. Particular attention should be given to scientific and technological problems and opportunities offering promise of social advantage that are so long range, geographically widespread, or economically diffused that the Federal Government constitutes the appropriate source for undertaking their support.
(3)
Federal promotion of science and technology should emphasize quality of research, recognize the singular importance of stability in scientific and technological institutions, and for urgent tasks, seek to assure timeliness of results. With particular reference to Federal support for basic research, funds should be allocated to encourage education in needed disciplines, to provide a base of scientific knowledge from which future essential technological development can be launched, and to add to the cultural heritage of the Nation.
(4)
Federal patent policies should be developed, based on uniform principles, which have as their objective the preservation of incentives for technological innovation and the application of procedures which will continue to assure the full use of beneficial technology to serve the public.
(5)
Closer relationships should be encouraged among practitioners of different scientific and technological disciplines, including the physical, social, and biomedical fields.
(6)
Federal departments, agencies, and instrumentalities should assure efficient management of laboratory facilities and equipment in their custody, including acquisition of effective equipment, disposal of inferior and obsolete properties, and cross-servicing to maximize the productivity of costly property of all kinds. Disposal policies should include attention to possibilities for further productive use.
(7)
The full use of the contributions of science and technology to support State and local government goals should be encouraged.
(8)
Formal recognition should be accorded those persons whose scientific and technological achievements have contributed significantly to the national welfare.
(9)
The Federal Government should support applied scientific research, when appropriate, in proportion to the probability of its usefulness, insofar as this probability can be determined; but while maximizing the beneficial consequences of technology, the Government should act to minimize foreseeable injurious consequences.
(10)
Federal departments, agencies, and instrumentalities should establish procedures to insure among them the systematic interchange of scientific data and technological findings developed under their programs.
TITLE II—

OFFICE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY

short title
Sec. 201.
[42 U.S.C. 6611 note]
This title may be cited as the “Presidential Science and Technology Advisory Organization Act of 1976”.

establishment
Sec. 202.
[42 U.S.C. 6611]
There is established in the Executive Office of the President an Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereinafter referred to in this title as the “Office”).

director; associate directors
Sec. 203.
[42 U.S.C. 6612]
(a)

In General.—
There shall be at the head of the Office a Director who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, and who shall be compensated at the rate provided for level II of the Executive Schedule in section 5313 of title 5, United States Code.
(b)

Associate Directors.—
The President is authorized to appoint not more than four Associate Directors, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, who shall be compensated at a rate not to exceed that provided for level III of the Executive Schedule in section 5314 of such title. Associate Directors shall perform such functions as the Director may prescribe.
(c)

Chief Technology Officer.—
Subject to subsection (b), the President is authorized to designate 1 of the Associate Directors under that subsection as a United States Chief Technology Officer.

functions
Sec. 204.
[42 U.S.C. 6613]
(a)
The primary function of the Director is to provide, within the Executive Office of the President, advice on the scientific, engineering, and technological aspects of issues that require attention at the highest levels of Government.
(b)
In addition to such other functions and activities as the President may assign, the Director shall—
(1)
advise the President of scientific and technological considerations involved in areas of national concern including, but not limited to, the economy, national security, homeland security, health, foreign relations, the environment, and the technological recovery and use of resources;
(2)
evaluate the scale, quality, and effectiveness of the Federal effort in science and technology and advise on appropriate actions;
(3)
advise the President on scientific and technological considerations with regard to Federal budgets, assist the Office of Management and Budget with an annual review and analysis of funding proposed for research and development in budgets of all Federal agencies, and aid the Office of Management and Budget and the agencies throughout the budget development process; and
(4)
assist the President in providing general leadership and coordination of the research and development programs of the Federal Government.

policy planning, analysis, and advice
Sec. 205.
[42 U.S.C. 6614]
(a)
The Office shall serve as a source of scientific and technological analysis and judgment for the President with respect to major policies, plans, and programs of the Federal Government. In carrying out the provisions of this section, the Director shall—
(1)
seek to define coherent approaches for applying science and technology to critical and emerging national and international problems and for promoting coordination of the scientific and technological responsibilities and programs of the Federal departments and agencies in the resolution of such problems;
(2)
assist and advise the President in the preparation of the Science and Technology Report, in accordance with section 209 of this Act;
(3)
gather timely and authoritative information concerning significant developments and trends in science, technology, and in national priorities, both current and prospective, to analyze and interpret such information for the purpose of determining whether such developments and trends are likely to affect achievement of the priority goals of the Nation as set forth in section 101(b) of this Act;
(4)
encourage the development and maintenance of an adequate data base for human resources in science, engineering, and technology, including the development of appropriate models to forecast future manpower requirements, and assess the impact of major governmental and public programs on human resources and their utilization;
(5)
initiate studies and analyses, including systems analyses and technology assessments, of alternatives available for the resolution of critical and emerging national and international problems amenable to the contributions of science and technology and, insofar as possible, determine and compare probably costs, benefits, and impacts of such alternatives;
(6)
advise the President on the extent to which the various scientific and technological programs, policies, and activities of the Federal Government are likely to affect the achievement of the priority goals of the Nation as set forth in section 101(b) of this Act;
(7)
provide the President with periodic reviews of Federal statutes and administrative regulations of the various departments and agencies which affect research and development activities, both internally and in relation to the private sector, or which may interfere with desirable technological innovation, together with recommendations for their elimination, reform, or updating as appropriate;
(8)
develop, review, revise, and recommend criteria for determining scientific and technological activities warranting Federal support, and recommend Federal policies designed to advance (A) the development and maintenance of broadly based scientific and technological capabilities, including human resources, at all levels of government, academia, and industry, and (B) the effective application of such capabilities to national needs;
(9)
assess and advise on policies for international cooperation in science and technology which will advance the national and international objectives of the United States;
(10)
identify and assess emerging and future areas in which science and technology can be used effectively in addressing national and international problems;
(11)
report at least once each year to the President and the Congress on the overall activities and accomplishments of the Office, pursuant to section 206 of this Act;
(12)
periodically survey the nature and needs of national science and technology policy and make recommendations to the President, for review and transmission to the Congress, for the timely and appropriate revision of such policy in accordance with section 102(a)(6) of this Act; and
(13)
perform such other duties and functions and make and furnish such studies and reports thereon, and recommendations with respect to matters of policy and legislation as the President may request.
(b)
(1)
The Director shall establish an Intergovernmental Science, Engineering, and Technology Advisory Panel (hereinafter referred to as the “Panel”), whose purpose shall be to (A) identify and define civilian problems at State, regional, and local levels which science, engineering, and technology may assist in resolving or ameliorating; (B) recommend priorities for addressing such problems; and (C) advise and assist the Director in identifying and fostering policies to facilitate the transfer and utilization of research and development results so as to maximize their application to civilian needs.
(2)
The Panel shall be composed of (A) the Director of the Office, or his representative; (B) at least ten members representing the interests of the States, appointed by the Director of the Office after consultation with State officials; (C) the Director of the National Science Foundation, or his representative; and (D) the Director of the Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy.
(3)
(A)
The Director of the Office, or his representative, shall serve as Chairman of the Panel.
(B)
The Panel shall perform such functions as the Chairman may prescribe, and shall meet at the call of the Chairman.
(4)
Each member of the Panel shall, while serving on business of the Panel, be entitled to receive compensation at a rate not to exceed the daily rate prescribed for GS–18 of the General Schedule under section 5332 of title 5, United States Code, including traveltime, and, while so serving away from his home or regular place of business, he may be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence in the same manner as the expenses authorized by section 5703(b) of title 5, United States Code, for persons in government service employed intermittently.
SEC. 206.
[42 U.S.C. 6615]

NATIONAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY STRATEGY.
(a)

In General.—
Not later than December 31 of the year immediately after the calendar year in which a review under section 206B is completed, the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall, in coordination with the National Science and Technology Council, develop and submit to Congress a comprehensive national science and technology strategy of the United States to meet national research and development objectives for the following 4-year period (in this section referred to as “the national science and technology strategy”).
(b)

Requirements.—
In developing each national science and technology strategy described in subsection (a), the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall—
(1)
consider—
(A)
the recommendations and priorities developed by the review under section 206B;
(B)
the most recently published interim or final national security strategy report submitted pursuant to section 108 of the National Security Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 3043);
(C)
other relevant national plans, reports, and strategies; and
(D)
the strategic plans of relevant Federal departments and agencies; and
(2)
include a description of—
(A)
strategic objectives and research priorities necessary to maintain and advance—
(i)
the leadership of the United States in science and technology, including in the key technology focus areas, including near-term, medium-term, and long-term economic competitiveness; and
(ii)
the leadership of the United States in technologies required to address societal and national challenges, including a transition to a circular economy;
(B)
programs, policies, and activities that the President recommends across all Federal departments and agencies to achieve the strategic objectives and research priorities described in subparagraph (A);
(C)
plans to promote sustainability practices and strategies for increasing jobs in the United States;
(D)
global trends in science and technology, including potential threats to the leadership of the United States in science and technology and opportunities for international collaboration in science and technology; and
(E)
plans to foster the development of international partnerships to reinforce domestic policy actions, build new markets, engage in collaborative research, and create an international environment that reflects United States values and protects United States interests.
(c)

Consultation.—
The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall consult as necessary with the Office of Management and Budget and other appropriate elements of the Executive Office of the President to ensure that the recommendations and priorities delineated in the science and technology strategy are incorporated in the development of annual budget requests.
(d)

Bi-Annual Briefing to Congress.—
The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall provide on a bi-annual basis, after each release of the national science and technology strategy, a briefing to the relevant congressional committees, which may include updates on the following:
(1)
The status and development of the national science and technology strategy, including any significant changes.
(2)
The implementation of the national science and technology strategy.
(3)
Any other information about the national science and technology strategy, as determined by the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy.
(e)

Publication.—
The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall, consistent with the protection of national security and other sensitive matters to the maximum extent practicable, make each national science and technology strategy publicly available on an internet website of the Office. Each report may include a classified annex if the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy determines such is appropriate.
(f)

Termination.—
This section terminates on the date that is ten years after the date of the enactment of this section.
SEC. 206B.
[42 U.S.C. 6615b]

QUADRENNIAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY REVIEW.
(a)

Requirements.—
(1)

Quadrennial reviews required.—
Not later than December 31, 2023, and every four years thereafter, the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall complete a review of the science and technology enterprise of the United States (in this section referred to as the “quadrennial science and technology review”).
(2)

Scope.—
The quadrennial science and technology review shall be a comprehensive examination of the science and technology strategy of the United States, including recommendations for maintaining global leadership in science and technology and advancing science and technology to address the societal and national challenges and guidance regarding the coordination of programs, assets, capabilities, budget, policies, and authorities across all Federal research and development programs.
(3)

Consultation.—
The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall conduct each quadrennial science and technology review in consultation with the following:
(A)
The National Science and Technology Council.
(B)
The President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.
(C)
The National Science Board.
(D)
The National Security Council.
(E)
The heads of other relevant Federal agencies.
(F)
Other relevant governmental and nongovernmental entities, including representatives from industry, institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations, Members of Congress, and other policy experts.
(4)

Coordination.—
The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall ensure that each quadrennial science and technology review is coordinated with other relevant statutorily required reviews, and to the maximum extent practicable incorporates information and recommendations from existing reviews to avoid duplication.
(b)

Contents.—
In each quadrennial science and technology review, the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall—
(1)
provide an integrated view of, and recommendations for, science and technology policy across the Federal Government, while considering economic and national security and other societal and national challenges;
(2)
assess and recommend priorities for research, development, and demonstration programs to maintain United States leadership in science and technology, including in manufacturing and industrial innovation;
(3)
assess and recommend priorities for research, development, and demonstration programs to address societal and national challenges;
(4)
assess the global competition in science and technology and identify potential threats to the leadership of the United States in science and technology and opportunities for international collaboration;
(5)
assess and make recommendations on the science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computer science workforce of the United States;
(6)
assess and make recommendations to improve regional innovation across the United States;
(7)
identify and assess sectors critical for the long-term resilience of United States innovation leadership across design, manufacturing, supply chains, and markets;
(8)
assess and make recommendations to improve translation of basic and applied research and the enhancement of technology transfer of federally funded research;
(9)
identify, assess, and make recommendations to address science and technology gaps that would not be met without Federal investment;
(10)
review administrative and legislative policies and funding opportunities that affect private sector science and technology activities, and identify and make recommendations regarding policies that maintain and grow the participation and competitiveness of small- and medium-sized businesses;
(11)
assess and identify the infrastructure and tools needed to maintain the leadership of the United States in science and technology and address other societal and national challenges; and
(12)
review administrative or legislative policies that affect the science and technology enterprise and identify and make recommendations regarding policies that hinder research and development in the United States.
(c)

Reporting.—
(1)

In general.—
Not later than December 31 of the year in which a quadrennial science and technology review is conducted, the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall submit to Congress a report relating to such review.
(2)

Publication.—
The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall, consistent with the protection of national security and other sensitive matters to the maximum extent practicable, make each report submitted under paragraph (1) publicly available on an internet website of the Office of Science and Technology Policy. Each report may include a classified annex if the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy determines such appropriate.
(d)

Termination.—
This section shall terminate on the date that is ten years after the date of the enactment of this section.

additional functions of the director; administrative provisions
Sec. 207.
[42 U.S.C. 6616]
(a)
The Director shall, in addition to the other duties and functions set forth in this title—
(1)
serve as Chairman of the Federal Coordinating Council for Science, Engineering, and Technology established under title IV; and
(2)
serve as a member of the Domestic Council.
(b)
For the purpose of assuring the optimum contribution of science and technology to the national security, the Director, at the request of the National Security Council, shall advise the National Security Council in such matters concerning science and technology as relate to national security.
(c)
In carrying out his functions under this Act, the Director is authorized to—
(1)
appoint such officers and employees as he may deem necessary to perform the functions now or hereafter vested in him and to prescribe their duties;
(2)
obtain services as authorized by section 3109 of title 5 of the United States Code, at rates not to exceed the rate prescribed for grade GS–18 of the General Schedule by section 5332 of title 5 of the United States Code; and
(3)
enter into contracts and other arrangements for studies, analyses, and other services with public agencies and with private persons, organizations, or institutions, and make such payments as he deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act without legal consideration, without performance bonds, and without regard to section 3709 of the Revised Statutes (41 U.S.C. 5).

coordination with other organizations
Sec. 208.
[42 U.S.C. 6617]
(a)
In exercising his functions under this Act, the Director shall—
(1)
work in close consultation and cooperation with the Domestic Council, the National Security Council, the Office of Homeland Security, the Council on Environmental Quality, the Council of Economic Advisers, the Office of Management and Budget, the National Science Board, and the Federal departments and agencies;
(2)
utilize the services of consultants, establish such advisory panels, and, to the extent practicable, consult with State and local governmental agencies, with appropriate professional groups, and with such representatives of industry, the universities, agriculture, labor, consumers, conservation organizations, and such other public interest groups, organizations, and individuals as he deems advisable;
(3)
hold such hearings in various parts of the Nation as he deems necessary, to determine the views of the agencies, groups, and organizations referred to in paragraph (2) of this subsection and of the general public, concerning national needs and trends in science and technology; and
(4)
utilize with their consent to the fullest extent possible the services, personnel, equipment, facilities, and information (including statistical information) of public and private agencies and organizations, and individuals, in order to avoid duplication of effort and expense, and may transfer funds made available pursuant to this Act to other Federal agencies as reimbursement for the utilization of such personnel, services, facilities, equipment, and information.
(b)
Each department, agency, and instrumentality of the Executive Branch of the Government, including any independent agency, is authorized to furnish the Director such information as the Director deems necessary to carry out his functions under this Act.
(c)
Upon request, the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration is authorized to assist the Director with respect to carrying out his activities conducted under paragraph (5) of section 205(a) of this Act.

major science and technology proposals
Sec. 209.
[42 U.S.C. 6618]
The Director shall identify and provide an annual report to Congress on each major multinational science and technology project, in which the United States is not a participant, which has a total estimated cost greater than $1,000,000,000.
TITLE III—

PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

establishment
Sec. 301.
[42 U.S.C. 6631]
The President shall establish within the Executive Office of the President a President's Committee on Science and Technology (hereinafter referred to as the “Committee”).

membership
Sec. 302.
[42 U.S.C. 6632]
(a)
The Committee shall consist of—
(1)
the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy established under title II of this Act; and
(2)
not less than eight nor more than fourteen other members appointed by the President not more than sixty days after the Director has assumed office (as provided in section 203 of this Act).
(b)
Members of the Committee appointed by the President pursuant to subsection (a)(2) of this section shall—
(1)
be qualified and distinguished in one or more of the following areas: science, engineering, technology, information dissemination, education, management, labor, or public affairs;
(2)
be capable of critically assessing the policies, priorities, programs, and activities of the Nation, with respect to the findings, policies, and purposes set forth in title I; and
(3)
shall collectively constitute a balanced composition with respect to (A) fields of science and engineering, (B) academic, industrial, and government experience, and (C) business, labor, consumer, and public interest points of view.
(c)
The President shall appoint one member of the Committee to serve as Chairman and another member to serve as Vice Chairman for such periods as the President may determine.
(d)
Each member of the Committee who is not an officer of the Federal Government shall, while serving on business of the Committee, be entitled to receive compensation at a rate not to exceed the daily rate prescribed for GS–18 of the General Schedule under section 5332 of title 5, United States Code, including traveltime, and while so serving away from his home or regular place of business he may be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in the same manner as the expenses authorized by section 5703(b) of title 5, United States Code, for persons in Government service employed intermittently.

federal science, engineering, and technology survey
Sec. 303.
[42 U.S.C. 6633]
(a)
The Committee shall survey, examine, and analyze the overall context of the Federal science, engineering, and technology effort including missions, goals, personnel, funding, organization, facilities, and activities in general, taking adequate account of the interests of individuals and groups that may be affected by Federal scientific engineering, and technical programs, including, as appropriate, consultation with such individuals and groups. In carrying out its functions under this section, the Committee shall, among other things, consider needs for—
(1)
organizational reform, including institutional realinement designed to place Federal agencies whose missions are primarily or solely devoted to scientific and technological research and development, and those agencies primarily or solely concerned with fuels, energy, and materials, within a single cabinet-level department;
(2)
improvements in existing systems for handling scientific and technical information on a Government-wide basis, including consideration of the appropriate role to be played by the private sector in the dissemination of such information;
(3)
improved technology assessment in the executive branch of the Federal Government;
(4)
improved methods for effecting technology innovation, transfer, and use;
(5)
stimulating more effective Federal-State and Federal-industry liaison and cooperation in science and technology, including the formation of Federal-State mechanisms for the mutual pursuit of this goal;
(6)
reduction and simplification of Federal regulations and administrative practices and procedures which may have the effect of retarding technological innovation or opportunities for its utilization;
(7)
a broader base for support of basic research;
(8)
ways of strengthening the Nation's academic institutions' capabilities for research and education in science and technology;
(9)
ways and means of effectively integrating scientific and technological factors into our national and international policies;
(10)
technology designed to meet community and individual needs;
(11)
maintenance of adequate scientific and technological manpower with regard to both quality and quantity;
(12)
improved systems for planning and analysis of the Federal science and technology programs; and
(13)
long-range study, analysis, and planning in regard to the application of science and technology to major national problems or concerns.
(b)
(1)
Within twelve months from the time the Committee is activated in accordance with section 302(a) of this Act, the Committee shall issue an interim report of its activities and operations to date. Not more than twenty-four months from the time the Committee is activated, the Committee shall submit a final report of its activities, findings, conclusions, and recommendations, including such supporting data and material as may be necessary, to the President.
(2)
The President, within sixty days of receipt thereof, shall transmit each such report to each House of Congress together with such comments, observations, and recommendations thereon as he deems appropriate.

continuation of committee
Sec. 304.
[42 U.S.C. 6634]
(a)
Ninety days after submission of the final report prepared under section 303 of this Act, the Committee shall cease to exist, unless the President, before the expiration of the ninety-day period, makes a determination that it is advantageous for the Committee to continue in being.
(b)
If the President determines that it is advantageous for the Committee to continue in being, (1) the Committee shall exercise such functions as are prescribed by the President; and (2) the members of the Committee shall serve at the pleasure of the President.

staff and consultant support
Sec. 305.
[42 U.S.C. 6635]
(a)
In the performance of its functions under sections 303 and 304 of this Act, the Committee is authorized—
(1)
to select, appoint, employ, and fix the compensation of such specialists and other experts as may be necessary for the carrying out of its duties and functions, and to select, appoint, and employ, subject to the civil service laws, such other officers and employees as may be necessary for carrying out its duties and functions; and
(2)
to provide for participation of such civilian and military personnel as may be detailed to the Committee pursuant to subsection (b) of this section for carrying out the functions of the Committee.
(b)
Upon request of the Committee, the head of any Federal department, agency, or instrumentality is authorized (1) to furnish to the Committee such information as may be necessary for carrying out its functions and as may be available to or procurable by such department, agency, or instrumentality, and (2) to detail to temporary duty with the Committee on a reimbursable basis such personnel within his administrative jurisdiction as it may need or believe to be useful for carrying out its functions. Each such detail shall be without loss of seniority, pay, or other employee status, to civilian employees so detailed, and without loss of status, rank, office, or grade, or of any emolument, perquisite, right, privilege, or benefit incident thereto to military personnel so detailed. Each such detail shall be made pursuant to an agreement between the Chairman and the head of the relevant department, agency, or instrumentality, and shall be in accordance with the provisions of subchapter III of chapter 33, title 5, United States Code.
TITLE IV—

FEDERAL COORDINATING COUNCIL FOR SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY

establishment and functions
Sec. 401.
[42 U.S.C. 6651]
(a)
There is established the Federal Coordinating Council for Science, Engineering, and Technology (hereinafter referred to as the “Council”).
(b)
The Council shall be composed of the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, the Director of the Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy, and one representative of each of the following Federal agencies: Department of Agriculture, Department of Commerce, Department of Defense, Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, Department of Housing and Urban Development, Department of the Interior, Department of State, Department of Transportation, Department of Veterans Affairs, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, National Science Foundation, Environmental Protection Agency, and Energy Research and Development Administration. Each such representative shall be an official of policy rank designated by the head of the Federal agency concerned.
(c)
The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall serve as Chairman of the Council. The Chairman may designate another member of the Council to act temporarily in the Chairman's absence as Chairman.
(d)
The Chairman may (1) request the head of any Federal agency not named in subsection (b) of this section to designate a representative to participate in meetings or parts of meetings of the Council concerned with matters of substantial interest to such agency, and (2) invite other persons to attend meetings of the Council.
(e)
The Council shall consider problems and developments in the fields of science, engineering, and technology and related activities affecting more than one Federal agency, and shall recommend policies and other measures designed to—
(1)
provide more effective planning and administration of Federal scientific, engineering, and technological programs,
(2)
identify research needs including areas requiring additional emphasis,
(3)
achieve more effective utilization of the scientific, engineering, and technological resources and facilities of Federal agencies, including the elimination of unwarranted duplication, and
(4)
further international cooperation in science, engineering, and technology.
(f)
The Council shall perform such other related advisory duties as shall be assigned by the President or by the Chairman.
(g)
For the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this section, each Federal agency represented on the Council shall furnish necessary assistance to the Council. Such assistance may include—
(1)
detailing employees to the Council to perform such functions, consistent with the purposes of this section, as the Chairman may assign to them, and
(2)
undertaking, upon request of the Chairman, such special studies for the Council as come within the functions herein assigned.
(h)
For the purpose of conducting studies and making reports as directed by the Chairman, standing subcommittees and panels of the Council may be established.

abolition of federal council for science and technology
Sec. 402.
[42 U.S.C. 1862 note]
The Federal Council for Science and Technology, established pursuant to Executive Order 10807, issued March 13, 1959, as amended by Executive Order 11381, issued November 8, 1967, is hereby abolished.
TITLE V—

GENERAL PROVISIONS

authorization
Sec. 501.
[42 U.S.C. 6671]
(a)
For the purpose of carrying out title II of this Act, there are authorized to be appropriated—
(1)
$750,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1976;
(2)
$500,000 for the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30, 1976;
(3)
$3,000,000 for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1977; and
(4)
such sums as may be necessary for each of the succeeding fiscal years.
(b)
For the purpose of carrying out title III of this Act, there are authorized to be appropriated—
(1)
$750,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1976;
(2)
$500,000 for the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30, 1976;
(3)
$1,000,000 for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1977; and
(4)
such sums as may be necessary for each of the succeeding fiscal years.

statutory repeal
Sec. 502.
Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 of Reorganization Plan Numbered 2 of 1962 (76 Stat. 1253) and section 2 of Reorganization Plan Numbered 1 of 1973 (87 Stat. 1089) are repealed.

amendment
Sec. 503.
Section 4 of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 (42 U.S.C. 1863) is amended by striking out subsection (g) and by redesignating subsections (h), (i), and (j), and all references thereto, as subsections (g), (h), and (i), respectively.

TITLE VI—

NATIONAL CRITICAL TECHNOLOGIES PANEL1
TITLE VI—

NATIONAL CRITICAL TECHNOLOGIES PANEL

establishment
Sec. 601.
The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall establish within that office a National Critical Technologies Panel (hereafter in this title referred to as the “panel”). The panel shall prepare the biennial national critical technologies report required by section 603.
^1
Section 605 of this Act provides that this title expires effective on December 31, 2000.
[42 U.S.C. 6681]

membership
Sec. 602.
(a)
The panel shall consist of 13 members appointed from among persons who are experts in science and engineering as follows:
(1)
The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall appoint nine members, of whom—
(A)
three shall be Federal Government officials; and
(B)
six shall be appointed from persons in private industry and higher education.
(2)
The Secretary of Defense shall appoint one member, who shall be an official of the Department of Defense.
(3)
The Secretary of Energy shall appoint one member, who shall be an official of the Department of Energy.
(4)
The Secretary of Commerce shall appoint one member, who shall be an official of the Department of Commerce.
(5)
The Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration shall appoint one member, who shall be an official of that agency.
(b)
(1)
Members appointed under subsection (a)(1)(B) shall serve for a team of two years.
(2)
Any vacancy in the membership of the panel shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment.
(c)
The Director shall designate one of the members appointed under subsection (a)(1)(A) as chairman of the panel.
[42 U.S.C. 6682]

biennial national critical technologies report
Sec. 603.
(a)
The panel shall submit to the President a biennial report on national critical technologies. Each such report shall identify those product technologies and process technologies that the panel considers to be national critical technologies. The number of the such technologies identified in any such report may not exceed 30, but shall include the most economically important emerging civilian technologies during the 10-year period following such report, together with the estimated current and future size of domestic and international markets for products derived from these technologies. The reports shall be submitted not later than October 1 of even-numbered years.
(b)
For purposes of subsection (a), a product or process technology may be considered to be a national critical technology if the panel determines it to be a technology that it is essential for the United States to develop to further the long-term national security or economic prosperity of the United States.
(c)
Each such report shall include, with respect to each technology identified in the report, the following information:
(1)
The reasons for the panel's selection of that technology.
(2)
The state of the development of that technology in the United States and in other countries.
(3)
An estimate of the current and anticipated level of research and development effort in the United States, including anticipated milestones for specific accomplishments, by—
(A)
the Federal Government;
(B)
State and local governments;
(C)
private industry; and
(D)
colleges and universities.
(d)
Each such report shall include—
(1)
an identification of the types of research and development needed to close any significant gaps or deficiencies in the technology base of the United States, as compared with the technology bases of major trading partners; and
(2)
a list of the technologies and markets targeted by major trading partners for development or capture.
(e)
Not later than 30 days after the date on which a report is submitted to the President under this section, the President shall transmit the report, together with any comments that the President considers appropriate, to Congress.
[42 U.S.C. 6683]

administration and funding of panel
Sec. 604.
The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall provide administrative support for the panel. Funds for necessary expenses of the panel shall be provided for fiscal years after fiscal year 1990 from funds appropriated for that Office.
[42 U.S.C. 6684]

expiration
Sec. 605.
The provisions of this title shall cease to be effective on December 31, 2000, and the panel shall terminate on that date.
[42 U.S.C. 6685]