[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 43 (Thursday, March 17, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E337]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        INTRODUCTION OF WOMEN AND MINORITIES IN STEM BOOSTER ACT

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                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 17, 2016

  Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to 
introduce the Women and Minorities in STEM Booster Act--important 
legislation to address the troubling underrepresentation of these 
groups in growing career fields.
  Companies that harness America's advantages in science and technology 
continue to grow and create high-paying jobs, yet the pipelines for 
these careers often leave out women and under-represented minorities. 
Indeed, according to the American Community Survey, women make up half 
of the workforce but hold only 26 percent of STEM-related jobs.
  The STEM Booster Act tackles this disparity head-on through efforts 
to include women and minorities in the STEM workforce. The bill 
authorizes a competitive grant program so that professional 
organizations, universities, nonprofits, and others can develop 
innovative programs to foster interest and participation in these 
subjects among young women and minorities.
  Studies have shown that women and minorities have just as much 
interest in science and math as other students, but are much less 
likely to declare a STEM major or complete a degree in one of these 
subjects. Mentoring programs, internships, and outreach efforts can 
help to ensure that these students can translate an interest in STEM 
into a degree and a career.
  I want to thank Sen. Hirono for her partnership on this issue, and 
urge my colleagues to support this important effort.

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