[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 178 (Friday, December 9, 2016)]
[Senate]
[Pages S7149-S7167]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              AMERICAN INNOVATION AND COMPETITIVENESS ACT

  Mr. PORTMAN. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate 
proceed to the immediate consideration of Calendar No. 695, S. 3084.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will report the bill by title.
  The senior assistant legislative clerk read as follows:

       A bill (S. 3084) to invest in innovation through research 
     and development, and to improve the competitiveness of the 
     United States.

  There being no objection, the Senate proceeded to consider the bill, 
which had been reported from the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
Transportation, with an amendment to strike all after the enacting 
clause and insert in lieu thereof the following:

     SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

       (a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``American 
     Innovation and Competitiveness Act''.
       (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents of this Act 
     is as follows:

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. Definitions.
Sec. 3. Authorization of appropriations.

                   TITLE I--MAXIMIZING BASIC RESEARCH

Sec. 101. Reaffirmation of merit-based peer review.
Sec. 102. Transparency and accountability.
Sec. 103. EPSCoR reaffirmation and update.
Sec. 104. Cybersecurity research.
Sec. 105. Networking and information technology research and 
              development update.
Sec. 106. High-energy physics coordination.
Sec. 107. Laboratory program improvements.
Sec. 108. International activities.
Sec. 109. Standard Reference Data Act update.
Sec. 110. NSF mid-scale project investments.
Sec. 111. Oversight of NSF large-scale research facility projects.
Sec. 112. Conflicts of interest.
Sec. 113. Management of the NSF Antarctic Program.
Sec. 114. NIST campus security.
Sec. 115. Federal coordination of sustainable chemistry research and 
              development.

        TITLE II--ADMINISTRATIVE AND REGULATORY BURDEN REDUCTION

Sec. 201. Interagency working group on research regulation.
Sec. 202. Scientific and technical collaboration.
Sec. 203. NIST grants and cooperative agreements update.
Sec. 204. Repeal of certain obsolete reports.
Sec. 205. Repeal of certain provisions.
Sec. 206. Grant subrecipient transparency and oversight.
Sec. 207. Micro-purchase threshold for procurement solicitations by 
              research institutions.

    TITLE III--SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATH EDUCATION

Sec. 301. Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program update.
Sec. 302. Space grants.
Sec. 303. STEM Education Advisory Panel.
Sec. 304. Committee on STEM Education.
Sec. 305. Grant programs to expand STEM opportunities.
Sec. 306. Centers of excellence for inclusion in STEM.

[[Page S7150]]

Sec. 307. NIST education and outreach.
Sec. 308. Presidential awards for excellence in STEM mentoring.
Sec. 309. Working group on inclusion in STEM fields.
Sec. 310. Improving undergraduate STEM experiences.
Sec. 311. Computer science education research.
Sec. 312. Informal STEM education.
Sec. 313. Developing STEM apprenticeships.
Sec. 314. NSF report on broadening participation.
Sec. 315. NOAA ocean and atmospheric science education programs.

                TITLE IV--LEVERAGING THE PRIVATE SECTOR

Sec. 401. Prize competition authority update.
Sec. 402. Crowdsourcing and citizen science.
Sec. 403. NIST other transaction authority update.
Sec. 404. NIST Visiting Committee on Advanced Technology update.

                         TITLE V--MANUFACTURING

Sec. 501. Hollings manufacturing extension partnership improvements.
Sec. 502. Federal loan guarantees for innovative technologies in 
              manufacturing.
Sec. 503. Manufacturing communities.

    TITLE VI--INNOVATION, COMMERCIALIZATION, AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER

Sec. 601. Innovation corps.
Sec. 602. Translational research grants.
Sec. 603. Optics and photonics technology innovations.
Sec. 604. Authorization of appropriations for the Regional Innovation 
              Program.

     SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.

       In this Act, unless expressly provided otherwise:
       (1) Appropriate committees of congress.--The term 
     ``appropriate committees of Congress'' means the Committee on 
     Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the 
     Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of 
     Representatives.
       (2) Federal science agency.--The term ``Federal science 
     agency'' has the meaning given the term in section 103 of the 
     America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 
     6623).
       (3) Foundation.--The term ``Foundation'' means the National 
     Science Foundation.
       (4) Institution of higher education.--The term 
     ``institution of higher education'' has the meaning given the 
     term in section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 
     920 U.S.C. 1001(a)).
       (5) NIST.--The term ``NIST'' means the National Institute 
     of Standards and Technology.
       (6) STEM.--The term ``STEM'' has the meaning given the term 
     in section 2 of the American COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 
     2010 (42 U.S.C. 6621 note).
       (7) STEM education.--The term ``STEM education'' has the 
     meaning given the term in section 2 of the STEM Education Act 
     of 2015 (42 U.S.C. 6621 note).

     SEC. 3. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

       (a) Fiscal Year 2017.--
       (1) National institute of standards and technology.--There 
     is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Commerce 
     $974,000,000 for NIST for fiscal year 2017.
       (2) National science foundation.--There is authorized to be 
     appropriated to the Foundation $7,510,000,000 for fiscal year 
     2017.
       (b) Fiscal Year 2018.--
       (1) National institute of standards and technology.--There 
     is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Commerce 
     $1,013,000,000 for NIST for fiscal year 2018.
       (2) National science foundation.--There is authorized to be 
     appropriated to the Foundation $7,810,000,000 for fiscal year 
     2018.

                   TITLE I--MAXIMIZING BASIC RESEARCH

     SEC. 101. REAFFIRMATION OF MERIT-BASED PEER REVIEW.

       (a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
       (1) the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts 
     criteria remain appropriate for evaluating grant proposals, 
     as concluded by the 2011 National Science Board Task Force on 
     Merit Review;
       (2) evaluating proposals on the basis of the Foundation's 
     intellectual merit and broader impacts criteria assures 
     that--
       (A) proposals funded by the Foundation are of high quality 
     and advance scientific knowledge; and
       (B) the Foundation's overall funding portfolio addresses 
     societal needs through research findings or through related 
     activities; and
       (3) as evidenced by the Foundation's contributions to 
     scientific advancement, economic development, human health, 
     and national security, its peer review and merit review 
     processes have successfully identified and funded 
     scientifically and societally relevant research and should be 
     preserved.
       (b) Merit Review Criteria.--The Foundation shall maintain 
     the intellectual merit and broader impacts criteria, among 
     other specific criteria as appropriate, as the basis for 
     evaluating grant proposals in the merit review process.
       (c) Updates.--If after the date of enactment of this Act a 
     change is made to the merit-review process, the Director 
     shall submit a report to the appropriate committees of 
     Congress not later than 30 days after the date of the change.

     SEC. 102. TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY.

       (a) Findings.--Congress finds that the Foundation has 
     improved transparency and accountability of the outcomes made 
     through the merit review process.
       (b) Guidance.--
       (1) In general.--The Director of the Foundation shall issue 
     and periodically update, as appropriate, policy guidance for 
     both Foundation staff and other Foundation merit review 
     process participants, clarifying the importance of 
     transparency and accountability of the outcomes made through 
     the merit review process.
       (2) Requirements.--The guidance under paragraph (1) shall 
     require that each abstract for a Foundation-funded research 
     project--
       (A) provide a clear justification for any Federal funds 
     that will be expended, including by--
       (i) describing how the project--

       (I) reflects the mission statement of the Foundation; and
       (II) addresses both of the National Science Board-approved 
     merit review criteria; and

       (ii) clearly identifying the research priorities of the 
     project in a manner that can be easily understood by both 
     technical and non-technical audiences; and
       (B) be publicly available at the time of award.
       (c) Examination.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the National Science Board shall--
       (1) examine the efforts by the Foundation to improve 
     transparency and accountability in the merit-review process; 
     and
       (2) submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a 
     report on the examination, including any recommendations for 
     how to further improve transparency and accountability of the 
     outcomes made through the merit-review process.

     SEC. 103. EPSCOR REAFFIRMATION AND UPDATE.

       (a) Findings.--Section 517(a) of the America COMPETES 
     Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 1862p-9(a)) is 
     amended--
       (1) in paragraph (1)--
       (A) by striking ``The National'' and inserting ``the 
     National''; and
       (B) by striking ``education,'' and inserting ``education'';
       (2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``with 27 States'' and 
     all that follows through the semicolon at the end and 
     inserting ``with 28 States and jurisdictions, taken together, 
     receiving only about 12 percent of all National Science 
     Foundation research funding;'';
       (3) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the following:
       ``(3) each of the States described in paragraph (2) 
     receives only a fraction of 1 percent of the Foundation's 
     research dollars each year;''; and
       (4) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(4) first established at the National Science Foundation 
     in 1979, the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive 
     Research (referred to in this section as `EPSCoR') assists 
     States and jurisdictions historically underserved by Federal 
     research and development funding in strengthening their 
     research and innovation capabilities;
       ``(5) the EPSCoR structure requires each participating 
     State to develop a science and technology plan suited to 
     State and local research, education, and economic interests 
     and objectives;
       ``(6) EPSCoR has been credited with advancing the research 
     competitiveness of participating States, improving awareness 
     of science, promoting policies that link scientific 
     investment and economic growth, and encouraging partnerships 
     between government, industry, and academia;
       ``(7) EPSCoR proposals are evaluated through a rigorous and 
     competitive merit-review process to ensure that awarded 
     research and development efforts meet high scientific 
     standards; and
       ``(8) according to the National Academy of Sciences, EPSCoR 
     has strengthened the national research infrastructure and 
     enhanced the educational opportunities needed to develop the 
     science and engineering workforce.''.
       (b) Sense of Congress.--
       (1) In general.--It is the sense of Congress that--
       (A) since maintaining the Nation's scientific and economic 
     leadership requires the participation of talented individuals 
     nationwide, EPSCoR investments into State research and 
     education capacities are in the Federal interest and should 
     be sustained; and
       (B) EPSCoR should maintain its experimental component by 
     supporting innovative methods for improving research capacity 
     and competitiveness.
       (2) Definition of epscor.--In this subsection, the term 
     ``EPSCoR'' has the meaning given the term in section 502 of 
     the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 
     1862p note).
       (c) Award Structure Updates.--Section 517 of the America 
     COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 1862p-9) is 
     amended by adding at the end the following:
       ``(g) Award Structure Updates.--In implementing the mandate 
     to maximize the impact of Federal EPSCoR support on building 
     competitive research infrastructure, and based on the inputs 
     and recommendations of previous EPSCoR reviews, the head of 
     each Federal agency administering an EPSCoR program shall--
       ``(1) consider modifications to EPSCoR proposal 
     solicitation, award type, and project evaluation--
       ``(A) to more closely align with current agency priorities 
     and initiatives;
       ``(B) to focus EPSCoR funding on achieving critical 
     scientific, infrastructure, and educational needs of that 
     agency;
       ``(C) to encourage collaboration between EPSCoR-eligible 
     institutions and researchers, including with institutions and 
     researchers in other States and jurisdictions;
       ``(D) to improve communication between State and Federal 
     agency proposal reviewers; and
       ``(E) to continue to reduce administrative burdens 
     associated with EPSCoR;
       ``(2) consider modifications to EPSCoR award structures--
       ``(A) to emphasize long-term investments in building 
     research capacity, potentially through

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     the use of larger, renewable funding opportunities; and
       ``(B) to allow the agency, States, and jurisdictions to 
     experiment with new research and development funding models; 
     and
       ``(3) consider modifications to the mechanisms used to 
     monitor and evaluate EPSCoR awards--
       ``(A) to increase collaboration between EPSCoR-funded 
     researchers and agency staff, including by providing 
     opportunities for mentoring young researchers and for the use 
     of Federal facilities;
       ``(B) to identify and disseminate best practices; and
       ``(C) to harmonize metrics across participating Federal 
     agencies, as appropriate.''.
       (d) Reports.--
       (1) Congressional reports.--Section 517 of the America 
     COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 1862p-9), as 
     amended, is further amended--
       (A) by striking subsection (c);
       (B) by redesignating subsections (d) through (g) as 
     subsections (c) through (f), respectively;
       (C) in subsection (c), as redesignated--
       (i) in paragraph (1), by striking ``Experimental Programs 
     to Stimulate Competitive Research'' and inserting ``EPSCoR''; 
     and
       (ii) in paragraph (2)--

       (I) in subparagraphs (A) and (E), by striking ``EPSCoR and 
     Federal EPSCoR-like programs'' and inserting ``each EPSCoR'';
       (II) in subparagraph (D), by striking ``EPSCoR and other 
     Federal EPSCoR-like programs'' and inserting ``each EPSCoR'';
       (III) in subparagraph (E), by striking ``EPSCoR or Federal 
     EPSCoR-like programs'' and inserting ``each EPSCoR''; and
       (IV) in subparagraph (G), by striking ``EPSCoR programs'' 
     and inserting ``each EPSCoR''; and

       (D) by amending subsection (d), as redesignated, to read as 
     follows:
       ``(d) Federal Agency Reports.--Each Federal agency that 
     administers an EPSCoR shall submit to Congress, as part of 
     its Federal budget submission--
       ``(1) a description of the program strategy and objectives;
       ``(2) a description of the awards made in the previous 
     fiscal year, including--
       ``(A) the total amount made available, by State, under 
     EPSCoR;
       ``(B) the total amount of agency funding made available to 
     all institutions and entities within each EPSCoR State;
       ``(C) the efforts and accomplishments to more fully 
     integrate the EPSCoR States in major agency activities and 
     initiatives;
       ``(D) the percentage of EPSCoR reviewers from EPSCoR 
     States; and
       ``(E) the number of programs or large collaborator awards 
     involving a partnership of organizations and institutions 
     from EPSCoR and non-EPSCoR States; and
       ``(3) an analysis of the gains in academic research quality 
     and competitiveness, and in science and technology human 
     resource development, achieved by the program over the last 5 
     fiscal years.''; and
       (E) in subsection (e)(1), as redesignated, by striking 
     ``Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research or a 
     program similar to the Experimental Program to Stimulate 
     Competitive Research'' and inserting ``EPSCoR''.
       (2) Results of award structure plan.--Not later than 1 year 
     after the date of enactment of this Act, the EPSCoR 
     Interagency Coordinating Committee shall brief the 
     appropriate committees of Congress on the updates made to the 
     award structure under 517(f) of the America COMPETES 
     Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 1862p-9(f)), as 
     amended by this subsection.
       (e) Definition of EPSCoR.--
       (1) In general.--Section 502 of the America COMPETES 
     Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 1862p note) is amended 
     by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
       ``(2) EPSCoR.--The term `EPSCoR' means--
       ``(A) the Established Program to Stimulate Competitive 
     Research established by the Foundation; or
       ``(B) a program similar to the Established Program to 
     Stimulate Competitive Research at another Federal agency.''.
       (2) Technical and conforming amendments.--Section 113 of 
     the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1988 (42 
     U.S.C. 1862g) is amended--
       (A) in the heading, by striking ``experimental'' and 
     inserting ``established'';
       (B) in subsection (a), by striking ``an Experimental 
     Program to Stimulate Competitive Research'' and inserting ``a 
     program to stimulate competitive research (known as the 
     `Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research')''; 
     and
       (C) in subsection (b), by striking ``the program'' and 
     inserting ``the Program''.

     SEC. 104. CYBERSECURITY RESEARCH.

       (a) Foundation Cybersecurity Research.--Section 4(a)(1) of 
     the Cyber Security Research and Development Act, as amended 
     (15 U.S.C. 7403(a)(1)) is amended--
       (1) in subparagraph (O), by striking ``and'' at the end;
       (2) in subparagraph (P), by striking the period at the end 
     and inserting a semicolon; and
       (3) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(Q) security of election-dedicated voting system software 
     and hardware; and
       ``(R) role of the human factor in cybersecurity and the 
     interplay of computers and humans and the physical world.''.
       (b) NIST Cybersecurity Priorities.--
       (1) Critical infrastructure awareness.--The Director of 
     NIST, in coordination with the Secretary of Homeland 
     Security, shall continue to raise public awareness of the 
     voluntary, industry-led cybersecurity standards and best 
     practices for critical infrastructure developed under section 
     2(c)(15) of the National Institute of Standards and 
     Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 272(c)(15)).
       (2) Quantum computing.--Under section 2(b) of the National 
     Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 272(b)) 
     and section 20 of that Act (15 U.S.C. 278g-3), the Director 
     of NIST shall--
       (A) research information systems for future cybersecurity 
     needs; and
       (B) coordinate with relevant stakeholders to develop a 
     process--
       (i) to research and identify or, if necessary, develop 
     cryptography standards and guidelines for future 
     cybersecurity needs, including quantum-resistant cryptography 
     standards; and
       (ii) to provide recommendations to Congress, Federal 
     agencies, and industry for a secure and smooth transition to 
     the standards under clause (i).
       (3) Voting.--Section 2(c) of the National Institute of 
     Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 272(c)) is amended--
       (A) by redesignating paragraphs (16) through (23) as 
     paragraphs (17) through (24), respectively; and
       (B) by inserting after paragraph (15) the following:
       ``(16) perform research to support the development of 
     voluntary, consensus-based, industry-led standards and 
     recommendations on the security of computers, computer 
     networks, and computer data storage used in voting systems to 
     ensure voters can vote securely and privately.''.

     SEC. 105. NETWORKING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH AND 
                   DEVELOPMENT UPDATE.

       (a) Networking and Information Technology Research and 
     Development.--Section 101(a)(1) of the High-Performance 
     Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5511(a)(1)) is amended--
       (1) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by inserting 
     ``In general.--'' before ``The President'';
       (2) in subparagraph (H), by striking ``and'' at the end;
       (3) in subparagraph (I), by striking the period at the end 
     and inserting a semicolon; and
       (4) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(J) provide for research on the interplay of computing 
     and people, including social computing and human-robot 
     interaction;
       ``(K) provide for research on cyber-physical systems and 
     improving the methods available for the design, development, 
     and operation of those systems that are characterized by high 
     reliability, safety, and security;
       ``(L) provide for the understanding of the science, 
     engineering, policy, and privacy protection related to 
     networking and information technology;
       ``(M) provide for the understanding of the human facets of 
     cyber threats and secure cyber systems;
       ``(N) provide for the transition of high-performance 
     computing in hardware, system software, development tools, 
     and applications into development and operations; and
       ``(O) foster public-private collaboration with government, 
     industry research laboratories, academia, and nonprofit 
     organizations to maximize research and development efforts 
     and the benefits of networking and information technology, 
     including high-performance computing.''.
       (b) Review and Plan.--Section 101 of the High-Performance 
     Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5511) is amended by adding 
     at the end the following:
       ``(d) Periodic Reviews.--The heads of the applicable 
     agencies and departments working through the National Science 
     and Technology Council and the Networking and Information 
     Technology Research and Development Program shall--
       ``(1) not later than 1 year after the date the advisory 
     committee submits a report under subsection (b)(2), assess 
     the structure of the Program, including the Program Component 
     Areas and associated contents and funding levels, taking into 
     consideration any relevant recommendations of the advisory 
     committee; and
       ``(2) ensure that the Program includes foundational and 
     interdisciplinary information technology research and 
     development activities.
       ``(e) Strategic Plans.--
       ``(1) In general.--The heads of the applicable agencies and 
     departments, working through the National Science and 
     Technology Council and the Networking and Information 
     Technology Research and Development Program shall develop and 
     implement strategic plans to guide emerging activities in 
     specific Program Component Areas, as the advisory committee 
     determines relevant under subsection (b), of Federal 
     networking and information technology research and 
     development, and to guide the activities described in 
     subsection (a)(1).
       ``(2) Updates.--The heads of the applicable agencies and 
     departments shall update the strategic plans as appropriate.
       ``(3) Contents.--Each strategic plan shall--
       ``(A) specify near-term and long-term objectives for the 
     Program, the anticipated schedule for achieving the near-term 
     and long-term objectives, and the metrics to be used for 
     assessing progress toward the near-term and long-term 
     objectives;
       ``(B) specify how the near-term and long-term objectives 
     complement research and development areas in which academia 
     and the private sector is actively engaged;
       ``(C) describe how the heads of the applicable agencies and 
     departments will support mechanisms for foundational and 
     interdisciplinary research and development in networking and 
     information technology, including through collaborations--
       ``(i) across Federal agencies and departments;
       ``(ii) across Program Component Areas; and
       ``(iii) with industry, Federal and private research 
     laboratories, research entities, universities, institutions 
     of higher education, relevant

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     nonprofit organizations, and international partners of the 
     United States;
       ``(D) describe how the heads of the applicable agencies and 
     departments will foster the rapid transfer of research and 
     development results into new technologies and applications;
       ``(E) describe how the Program will address long-term 
     challenges for which solutions require large-scale, long-
     term, foundational and interdisciplinary research and 
     development; and
       ``(F) place emphasis on innovative and high-risk projects 
     having the potential for substantial societal returns on the 
     research investment.
       ``(4) Private sector efforts.--In developing, implementing, 
     and updating strategic plans, the heads of the applicable 
     agencies and departments, working through the National 
     Science and Technology Council and Networking and Information 
     Technology Research and Development Program, shall coordinate 
     with industry, academia, and other interested stakeholders to 
     ensure, to the extent practicable, that the Federal 
     networking and information technology research and 
     development activities carried out under this section do not 
     duplicate the efforts of the private sector.
       ``(5) Recommendations.--In developing and updating 
     strategic plans, the heads of the applicable agencies and 
     departments shall solicit recommendations and advice from--
       ``(A) the advisory committee under subsection (b); and
       ``(B) a wide range of stakeholders, including industry, 
     academia, including representatives of minority serving 
     institutions and community colleges, National Laboratories, 
     and other relevant organizations and institutions.
       ``(f) Reports.--The heads of the applicable agencies and 
     departments, working through the National Science and 
     Technology Council and the Networking and Information 
     Technology Research and Development Program, shall submit to 
     the advisory committee, the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
     and Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on 
     Science, Space, and Technology of the House of 
     Representatives--
       ``(1) the strategic plans developed under subsection 
     (e)(1); and
       ``(2) each update under subsection (e)(2).
       ``(g) Definition of Applicable Agencies and Departments.--
     In this section, the term `applicable agencies and 
     departments' means the Federal agencies and departments 
     identified in subsection (a)(3)(B) or designated under clause 
     (xii) of that subsection.''.
       (c) Research Coordination.--Section 101(a)(2) of the High-
     Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5511(a)(2)) is 
     amended--
       (1) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by inserting 
     ``Requirements.--'' before ``The Director''; and
       (2) by amending subparagraph (C) to read as follows:
       ``(C) provide for the coordination of Federal networking 
     and information technology research, development, networking, 
     and other activities--
       ``(i) among the applicable agencies and departments under 
     the Program; and
       ``(ii) to the extent practicable, with other Federal 
     agencies not identified in subsection (a)(3)(B), other 
     Federal and private research laboratories, industry, research 
     entities, universities, institutions of higher education, 
     relevant nonprofit organizations, and international partners 
     of the United States;''.
       (d) Budget.--Section 101(a)(3) of the High-Performance 
     Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5511(a)(3)) is amended--
       (1) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by inserting 
     ``Contents of annual reports.--'' before ``The annual'';
       (2) in subparagraph (B), by striking clauses (i) through 
     (xi) and inserting the following--
       ``(i) the Department of Commerce;
       ``(ii) the Department of Defense;
       ``(iii) the Department of Education;
       ``(iv) the Department of Energy;
       ``(v) the Department of Health and Human Services;
       ``(vi) the Department of Homeland Security;
       ``(vii) the Department of Justice;
       ``(viii) the Environmental Protection Agency;
       ``(ix) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration;
       ``(x) the National Archives and Records Administration;
       ``(xi) the National Science Foundation; and
       ``(xii) such other agencies and departments as the 
     President or the Director considers appropriate;'';
       (3) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``is submitted,'' and 
     inserting ``is submitted, the levels for the previous fiscal 
     year,'';
       (4) in subparagraph (D)--
       (A) by striking ``is submitted,'' and inserting ``is 
     submitted, the levels for the previous fiscal year,''; and
       (B) by striking ``and'' after the semicolon;
       (5) by redesignating subparagraph (E) as subparagraph (F); 
     and
       (6) by inserting after subparagraph (D) the following:
       ``(E) include a description of how the objectives for each 
     Program Component Area, and the objectives for activities 
     that involve multiple Program Component Areas, relate to the 
     objectives of the Program identified in the strategic plan 
     under subsection (e);''.
       (e) Conforming Amendments to High-Performance Computing Act 
     of 1991.--The High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 
     U.S.C. 5501 et seq.) is amended--
       (1) in section 2 (15 U.S.C. 5501)--
       (A) in paragraphs (2) and (5), by striking ``high-
     performance computing'' and inserting ``networking and 
     information technology, including high-performance 
     computing,''; and
       (B) in paragraph (3), by striking ``high-performance 
     computing'' and inserting ``networking and information 
     technology, including high-performance computing'';
       (2) in section 3 (15 U.S.C. 5502)--
       (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1) and paragraph 
     (1), by striking ``high-performance computing'' and inserting 
     ``networking and information technology'' each place it 
     appears; and
       (B) in paragraph (2)--
       (i) by striking ``high-performance computing and'' and 
     inserting ``networking and information technology and''; and
       (ii) by striking ``high-performance computing network'' and 
     inserting ``networking and information technology'';
       (3) in section 4 (15 U.S.C. 5503)--
       (A) in paragraphs (2) and (3), by striking ``high-
     performance computing'' and inserting ``networking and 
     information technology'';
       (B) by striking paragraph (5);
       (C) in paragraph (6), by striking ``National High-
     Performance Computing'' and inserting ``Networking and 
     Information Technology Research and Development''; and
       (D) by redesignating paragraphs (3), (4), (6), and (7) as 
     paragraphs (4), (3), (5), and (6), respectively;
       (4) in section 101 (15 U.S.C. 5511)--
       (A) in the heading, by striking ``national high-performance 
     computing'' and inserting ``networking and information 
     technology research and development'';
       (B) in subsection (a)--
       (i) in the heading, by striking ``National High-Performance 
     Computing'' and inserting ``Networking and Information 
     Technology Research and Development'';
       (ii) in paragraph (1)--

       (I) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking 
     ``National High-Performance Computing'' and inserting 
     ``Networking and Information Technology Research and 
     Development'';
       (II) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``high-performance 
     computing, including networking'' and inserting ``networking 
     and information technology'';
       (III) in subparagraphs (B) and (C), by striking ``high-
     performance computing'' and inserting ``high-end computing, 
     including high-performance computing,''; and
       (IV) in subparagraph (G), by striking ``high-performance 
     computing'' and inserting ``networking and information 
     technology, including high-performance computing,''; and

       (iii) in paragraph (2)--

       (I) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``high-performance 
     computing research, development, networking'' and inserting 
     ``networking and information technology research and 
     development'';
       (II) in subparagraph (E), by striking ``high-performance 
     computing and networking systems'' and inserting ``high-end 
     computing and networking systems''; and
       (III) in subparagraph (F), by striking ``high-performance 
     computing'' and inserting ``high-end, including high-
     performance, computing'';

       (C) in subsection (b)(1), in the matter preceding 
     subparagraph (A), by striking ``high-performance computing'' 
     each place it appears and inserting ``networking and 
     information technology'';
       (D) in subsection (b)(2), by striking ``Committee on 
     Science and Technology'' and inserting ``Committee on 
     Science, Space, and Technology''; and
       (E) in subsection (c)(1)(A), by striking ``high-performance 
     computing'' and inserting ``networking and information 
     technology'';
       (5) in section 201(a)(1) (15 U.S.C. 5521(a)(1)), by 
     striking ``high-performance computing and advanced high-speed 
     computer networking'' and inserting ``networking and 
     information technology'';
       (6) in section 202(a) (15 U.S.C. 5522(a)), by striking 
     ``high-performance computing'' and inserting ``networking and 
     information technology'';
       (7) in section 203 (15 U.S.C. 5523(a))--
       (A) by striking ``high-performance computing and 
     networking'' and inserting ``networking and information 
     technology''; and
       (B) by striking ``high-performance computing systems'' and 
     inserting ``high-end, including high-performance, computing 
     systems'';
       (8) in section 204 (15 U.S.C. 5524)--
       (A) in subsection (a)(1)--
       (i) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``high-performance 
     computing systems and networks'' and inserting ``networking 
     and information technology systems'';
       (ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``high-performance 
     computing systems in networks'' and inserting ``networking 
     and information technology systems''; and
       (iii) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``high-performance 
     computing systems'' and inserting ``networking and 
     information technology''; and
       (B) in subsection (b)--
       (i) in the heading, by striking ``High-performance 
     Computing and Network'' and inserting ``Network and 
     Information Technology Security''; and
       (ii) by striking ``sensitive information in Federal 
     computer systems'' and inserting ``agency information and 
     information systems''; and
       (9) in section 207 (15 U.S.C. 5527)--
       (A) in subsection (a)(2), by striking ``section 2315(a) of 
     title 10'' and inserting ``section 3552(b)(6)(A) of title 
     44''; and
       (B) in subsection (b), by striking ``high-performance 
     computing systems'' and inserting ``networking and 
     information technology''.
       (f) Additional Technical and Conforming Amendments.--
       (1) National networking and information technology 
     program.--Section 101 of the High-Performance Computing Act 
     of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5511), as amended, is further amended--
       (A) in subsection (b)--
       (i) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``Advisory committee.--
     '' before ``The President shall'';

[[Page S7153]]

       (ii) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``Additional duties.--
     '' before ``In addition to''; and
       (iii) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``FACA.--'' before 
     ``Section 14''; and
       (B) in subsection (c)--
       (i) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``Reports.--'' before 
     ``Each Federal''; and
       (ii) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``OMB review.--'' 
     before ``The Office''.
       (2) Miscellaneous.--
       (A) National science foundation research.--Section 
     4(b)(5)(K) of the Cyber Security Research and Development Act 
     (15 U.S.C. 7403(b)(5)(K)) is amended by striking ``high-
     performance computing'' and inserting ``networking and 
     information technology''.
       (B) National information technology research and 
     development program.--Section 13202(b) of the American 
     Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (42 U.S.C. 17912(b)) is 
     amended by striking ``National High-Performance Computing 
     Program'' and inserting ``Networking and Information 
     Technology Research and Development Program''.
       (C) Federal cybersecurity research and development.--
     Section 201(a)(4) of the Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 
     2014 (15 U.S.C. 7431(a)(4)) is amended by striking ``clauses 
     (i) through (x) of section 101(a)(3)(B) of the High-
     Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5511(a)(3)(B)) 
     or designated under clause (xi) of that section'' and 
     inserting ``clauses (i) through (xi) of section 101(a)(3)(B) 
     of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 
     5511(a)(3)(B)) or designated under clause (xii) of that 
     section''.
       (D) National research and education network.--Section 102 
     of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 
     5512) is repealed.
       (E) Next generation internet.--Section 103 of the High-
     Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5513) is 
     repealed.
       (F) Fostering united states competitiveness in high-
     performance computing and related activities.--Section 208 of 
     the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5528) 
     is repealed.

     SEC. 106. HIGH-ENERGY PHYSICS COORDINATION.

       (a) In General.--The Physical Science Subcommittee of the 
     National Science and Technology Council shall define and 
     continue to coordinate Federal efforts, including activities 
     of relevant advisory committees, related to high-energy 
     physics research to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness 
     of United States investment in high-energy physics.
       (b) Purposes.--The purposes of the Physical Science 
     Subcommittee include--
       (1) to advise and assist the Committee on Science and the 
     National Science and Technology Council on United States 
     policies, procedures, and plans in the physical sciences, 
     including high-energy physics; and
       (2) to identify emerging opportunities, stimulate 
     international cooperation, and foster the development of the 
     physical sciences in the United States, including--
       (A) in high-energy physics research, including related 
     underground science and engineering research;
       (B) in physical infrastructure and facilities;
       (C) in information and analysis; and
       (D) in coordination activities.
       (c) Responsibilities.--In regard to coordinating Federal 
     efforts related to high-energy physics research, the Physical 
     Science Subcommittee shall--
       (1) provide recommendations on planning for construction 
     and stewardship of large facilities participating in high-
     energy physics;
       (2) provide recommendations on research coordination and 
     collaboration among the programs and activities of Federal 
     agencies;
       (3) establish goals and priorities for high-energy physics, 
     related underground science, and research and development 
     that will strengthen United States competitiveness in high-
     energy physics;
       (4) propose methods for engagement with international, 
     Federal, and State agencies and Federal laboratories not 
     represented on the National Science and Technology Council to 
     identify and reduce regulatory, logistical, and fiscal 
     barriers that inhibit United States leadership in high-energy 
     physics and related underground science; and
       (5) develop, and update as necessary, a strategic plan to 
     guide Federal programs and activities in support of high-
     energy physics research, including--
       (A) the efforts taken in support of subsection (b) since 
     the last strategic plan;
       (B) an evaluation of the current research needs for 
     maintaining United States leadership in high-energy physics; 
     and
       (C) an identification of future priorities in the area of 
     high-energy physics.

     SEC. 107. LABORATORY PROGRAM IMPROVEMENTS.

       (a) In General.--The Director of NIST, acting through the 
     Associate Director for Laboratory Programs, shall develop and 
     implement a comprehensive strategic plan for laboratory 
     programs that expands--
       (1) interactions with academia, international researchers, 
     and industry; and
       (2) commercial and industrial applications.
       (b) Optimizing Commercial and Industrial Applications.--In 
     accordance with the purpose under section 1(b)(3) of the 
     National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 
     271(b)(3)), the comprehensive strategic plan shall--
       (1) include performance metrics for the dissemination of 
     fundamental research results, measurements, and standards 
     research results to industry, including manufacturing, and 
     other interested parties;
       (2) document any positive benefits of research on the 
     competitiveness of the parties described in paragraph (1); 
     and
       (3) clarify the current approach to the technology transfer 
     activities of NIST.

     SEC. 108. INTERNATIONAL ACTIVITIES.

       Section 17(a) of the National Institute of Standards and 
     Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278g(a)) is amended to read as 
     follows:
       ``(a) Financial Assistance to Foreign Nationals.--The 
     Secretary is authorized, notwithstanding any other provision 
     of law, to expend such sums, within the limit of appropriated 
     funds, through direct support for activities of international 
     organizations and foreign national metrology institutes with 
     which the Institute cooperates to advance measurement 
     methods, standards, and related basic technologies and, as 
     the Secretary may deem desirable, through the grant of 
     fellowships or any other form of financial assistance, to 
     defray the expenses of foreign nationals not in service to 
     the Government of the United States while they are performing 
     scientific or engineering work at the Institute or 
     participating in the exchange of scientific or technical 
     information at the Institute.''.

     SEC. 109. STANDARD REFERENCE DATA ACT UPDATE.

       Section 2 of the Standard Reference Data Act (15 U.S.C. 
     290a) is amended to read as follows:

     ``SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.

       ``For the purposes of this Act:
       ``(1) Standard reference data.--The term `standard 
     reference data' means data that is--
       ``(A) either--
       ``(i) quantitative information related to a measurable 
     physical or chemical property of a substance or system of 
     substances of known composition and structure;
       ``(ii) measurable characteristics of a physical artifact or 
     artifacts;
       ``(iii) engineering properties or performance 
     characteristics of a system; or
       ``(iv) 1 or more digital data objects that serve--

       ``(I) to calibrate or characterize the performance of a 
     detection or measurement system; or
       ``(II) to interpolate or extrapolate, or both, data 
     described in subparagraph (A) through (C); and

       ``(B) that is critically evaluated as to its reliability 
     under section 3 of this Act.
       ``(2) Secretary.--The term `Secretary' means the Secretary 
     of Commerce.''.

     SEC. 110. NSF MID-SCALE PROJECT INVESTMENTS.

       (a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
       (1) The Foundation funds major research facilities, 
     infrastructure, and instrumentation that provide unique 
     capabilities at the frontiers of science and engineering.
       (2) Modern and effective research infrastructure is 
     critical to maintaining United States leadership in science 
     and engineering.
       (3) Many proposed instruments, equipment, or upgrades to 
     major research facilities fall between programs currently 
     funded by the Foundation, creating a gap between Major 
     Research Instrumentation and Major Research Equipment and 
     Facilities Construction, including projects that have been 
     identified as cost-effective additions of high priority to 
     the advancement of scientific understanding.
       (4) The 2010 Astronomy and Astrophysics Decadal Survey 
     recommended a vigorous mid-scale innovations program.
       (b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that 
     the addition of a competitive mid-scale funding opportunity 
     that includes research, instruments, and infrastructure is 
     essential to the portfolio of the Foundation and advancing 
     scientific understanding.
       (c) Mid-scale Projects.--
       (1) In general.--The Foundation shall evaluate the existing 
     and future needs, across all disciplines supported by the 
     Foundation, for mid-scale projects.
       (2) Strategy.--The Director of the Foundation shall develop 
     a strategy to meet the needs identified in paragraph (1).
       (3) Briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Director of the Foundation shall 
     provide a briefing to the appropriate committees of Congress 
     on the evaluation under paragraph (1) and the strategy under 
     paragraph (2).
       (4) Definition of mid-scale projects.--In this subsection, 
     the term ``mid-scale projects'' means research, 
     instrumentation, and infrastructure investments that fall 
     between the instrumentation funded by the major research 
     instrumentation program and the very large projects funded by 
     the major research equipment and facilities construction 
     program as described in section 507 of the AMERICA Competes 
     Reauthorization Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-358; 124 Stat. 
     4008).

     SEC. 111. OVERSIGHT OF NSF LARGE-SCALE RESEARCH FACILITY 
                   PROJECTS.

       (a) Facilities Oversight.--
       (1) In general.--The Director of the Foundation shall 
     strengthen oversight and accountability over the full life-
     cycle of large-scale research facility projects, including 
     planning, development, procurement, construction, operations, 
     and support, and shut-down of such facilities, in order to 
     maximize research investment.
       (2) Requirements.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the 
     Director shall--
       (A) prioritize the scientific outcomes of large-scale 
     research facility projects and the internal management and 
     financial oversight of the projects;
       (B) clarify the roles and responsibilities of all 
     organizations, including offices, panels, committees, and 
     directorates, involved in supporting large-scale research 
     facility projects, including the role of the Major Research 
     Equipment and Facilities Construction Panel;
       (C) establish policies and procedures for the planning, 
     management, and oversight of large-

[[Page S7154]]

     scale research facility projects at each phase of the life-
     cycle of the project;
       (D) ensure that policies for estimating and managing costs 
     and schedules are consistent with the best practices 
     described in the Government Accountability Office Cost 
     Estimating and Assessment Guide, the Government 
     Accountability Office Schedule Assessment Guide, and the 
     Office of Management and Budget Uniform Guidance (2 C.F.R. 
     Part 200);
       (E) establish the appropriate project management and 
     financial management expertise required for Foundation staff 
     to oversee large-scale research facility projects 
     effectively, including by improving project management 
     training and certification; and
       (F) coordinate the sharing of the best management practices 
     and lessons learned from large-scale research facility 
     projects.
       (b) Facilities Full Life-cycle Costs.--
       (1) In general.--Subject to subsection (c)(1), the Director 
     of the Foundation shall require that any pre-award analysis 
     of a large-scale research facility includes the development 
     and consideration of the full life-cycle cost (as defined in 
     section 2 of the National Science Foundation Authorization 
     Act of 1998 (42 U.S.C. 1862k note)) in accordance with 
     section 14 of the National Science Foundation Authorization 
     Act of 2002 (42 U.S.C. 1862n-4).
       (2) Implementation.--Based on the pre-award analysis 
     described in paragraph (1), the Director shall include 
     projected operational costs within the Foundation's out years 
     as part of the President's yearly budget submissions to 
     Congress.
       (c) Cost Oversight.--
       (1) Pre-award analysis.--
       (A) In general.--The Director of the Foundation and the 
     National Science Board may not approve any proposed large-
     scale research facility project unless--
       (i) an analysis of the proposed budget has been conducted 
     to ensure the proposal is complete and reasonable;
       (ii) the analysis under clause (i) follows the Government 
     Accountability Office Cost Estimating and Assessment Guide;
       (iii) except as provided under subparagraph (C), an 
     analysis of the accounting systems has been conducted;
       (iv) an independent cost estimate of the construction of 
     the project has been conducted using the same detailed 
     technical information as the project proposal estimate to 
     determine whether the estimate is well-supported and 
     realistic; and
       (v) the Foundation and the National Science Board has 
     considered the analyses under clauses (i) and (iii) and the 
     independent cost estimate under clause (iv) and resolved any 
     major issues identified therein.
       (B) Audits.--A Foundation analysis under subparagraph 
     (A)(i) may include an audit.
       (C) Exception.--The Director, at the Director's discretion, 
     may waive the requirement under subparagraph (A)(iii) if a 
     similar analysis of the accounting systems was conducted in 
     the prior years.
       (2) Construction oversight.--The Director shall require for 
     each large-scale research facility project--
       (A) periodic external reviews on project management and 
     performance;
       (B) adequate internal controls, policies, and procedures, 
     and reliable accounting systems in preparation for the 
     incurred cost audits under subparagraph (D);
       (C) annual incurred cost submissions of financial 
     expenditures; and
       (D) an incurred cost audit of the project--
       (i) at least once during construction at a time determined 
     based on risk analysis and length of the award, except that 
     the length of time between audits may not exceed 3 years; and
       (ii) at the completion of the construction phase.
       (3) Operations cost estimate.--The Director shall require 
     an independent cost estimate of the operational proposal for 
     each large-scale research facility project.
       (d) Contingency.--
       (1) In general.--The Foundation shall strengthen internal 
     controls to improve oversight of contingency on a large-scale 
     research facility project.
       (2) Requirements.--In carrying out paragraph (1), not later 
     than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
     Foundation shall--
       (A) retain control over a portion of the budget contingency 
     funds of each awardee;
       (B) distribute the retained funds with other incremental 
     funds as needed; and
       (C) track contingency use.
       (e) Oversight Implementation Progress.--The Director of the 
     Foundation shall--
       (1) not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of 
     this Act, and periodically thereafter until the completion 
     date, provide a briefing to the appropriate committees of 
     Congress on the response to or progress made toward 
     implementation of--
       (A) this section;
       (B) all of the issues and recommendations identified in 
     cooperative agreement audit reports and memoranda issued by 
     the Inspector General of the National Science Foundation in 
     the last 5 years; and
       (C) all of the issues and recommendations identified by a 
     panel of the National Academy of Public Administration in the 
     December 2015 report entitled ``National Science Foundation: 
     Use of Cooperative Agreements to Support Large Scale 
     Investment in Research''; and
       (2) not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
     this Act, notify the appropriate committees of Congress when 
     the Foundation has implemented the recommendations identified 
     in a panel of the National Academy of Public Administration 
     report issued December 2015.
       (f) Definitions.--In this section:
       (1) Appropriate committees of congress.--The term 
     ``appropriate committees of Congress'' means the Committee on 
     Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the Committee on 
     Appropriations of the Senate and the Committee on Science, 
     Space, and Technology and the Committee on Appropriations of 
     the House of Representatives.
       (2) Large-scale research facility project.--The term `` 
     `large-scale research facility project' '' means a science 
     and engineering facility project funded by the major research 
     equipment and facilities construction account, or any 
     successor thereto.

     SEC. 112. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST.

       The Director of the Foundation shall update the policy and 
     procedure of the Foundation relating to conflicts of interest 
     to improve documentation and management of any known conflict 
     of interest of an individual on temporary assignment at the 
     Foundation, including an individual on assignment under the 
     Intergovernmental Personnel Act of 1970 (42 U.S.C. 4701 et 
     seq.).

     SEC. 113. MANAGEMENT OF THE NSF ANTARCTIC PROGRAM.

       (a) Review.--
       (1) In general.--The Director of the Foundation shall 
     continue to review the efforts by the Foundation to sustain 
     and strengthen scientific efforts in the face of logistical 
     challenges for the United States Antarctic Program.
       (2) Issues to be examined.--In conducting the review, the 
     Director shall examine, at a minimum, the following:
       (A) Implementation by the Foundation of issues and 
     recommendations identified by--
       (i) the Inspector General of the National Science 
     Foundation in audit reports and memoranda on the United 
     States Antarctic Program in the last 4 years;
       (ii) the U.S. Antarctic Program Blue Ribbon Panel report, 
     More and Better Science in Antarctica through Increased 
     Logistical Effectiveness, issued July 23, 2012; and
       (iii) the National Research Council report, Future Science 
     Opportunities in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean, issued 
     September 2011.
       (B) Efforts by the Foundation to track its progress in 
     addressing the issues and recommendations under subparagraph 
     (A).
       (C) Efforts by the Foundation to address other 
     opportunities and challenges, including efforts on scientific 
     research, coordination with other Federal agencies and 
     international partners, logistics and transportation, health 
     and safety of participants, oversight and financial 
     management of awardees and contractors, and resources and 
     policy challenges.
       (b) Briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Director shall brief the 
     appropriate committees of Congress on the ongoing review, 
     including findings and any recommendations.

     SEC. 114. NIST CAMPUS SECURITY.

       (a) Supervisory Authority.--Consistent with the enforcement 
     authority delegated by the Secretary of Homeland Security 
     under section 1315 of title 40, United States Code, the 
     Department of Commerce Office of Security shall directly 
     manage the law enforcement and security programs of NIST 
     through an assigned Director of Security for NIST.
       (b) Reports.--The Director of Security for NIST shall 
     provide an activities and security report on a quarterly 
     basis for the first year after the date of enactment of this 
     Act, and on an annual basis thereafter, to the Under 
     Secretary for Standards and Technology.

     SEC. 115. FEDERAL COORDINATION OF SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY 
                   RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.

       (a) Importance of Sustainable Chemistry.--It is the sense 
     of Congress that--
       (1) the science of chemistry is vital to improving the 
     quality of human life and plays an important role in 
     addressing critical global challenges, including water 
     quality, energy, health care, and agriculture;
       (2) sustainable chemistry can reduce risk to human health 
     and the environment, reduce waste and improve pollution 
     prevention, promote safe and efficient manufacturing, and 
     promote efficient use of resources in developing new 
     materials, processes, and technologies that support viable 
     long-term solutions;
       (3) sustainable chemistry can stimulate innovation, 
     encourage new and creative approaches to problems, create 
     jobs, and save money; and
       (4) a coordinated national effort on sustainable chemistry 
     will allow for a greater return on Federal research 
     investment in this space.
       (b) National Coordination for Sustainable Chemistry.--
       (1) Establishment.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
     of enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of 
     Science and Technology Policy shall convene an entity under 
     the National Science and Technology Council with the 
     responsibility to coordinate Federal programs and activities 
     in support of sustainable chemistry, including, as 
     appropriate, at the National Science Foundation, the 
     Department of Energy, the Department of Agriculture, the 
     Environmental Protection Agency, the National Institute of 
     Standards and Technology, the Department of Defense, the 
     National Institutes of Health, and other related Federal 
     agencies.
       (2) Chairs.--The entity described in paragraph (1) shall be 
     chaired by representatives from the National Science 
     Foundation, the Environmental Protection Agency, or other 
     agencies, as appropriate.
       (3) Duties.--
       (A) In general.--The entity described in paragraph (1) 
     shall--
       (i) develop a working definition of sustainable chemistry, 
     after seeking advice and input from stakeholders as described 
     in clause (iv);
       (ii) coordinate and support existing Federal research, 
     development, education, and training efforts in sustainable 
     chemistry;

[[Page S7155]]

       (iii) develop a strategic plan to guide Federal programs 
     and activities in support of sustainable chemistry research, 
     development, technology transfer, education, and training as 
     described in subsection (c), including support for public-
     private partnerships; and
       (iv) as appropriate, consult and coordinate with 
     stakeholders qualified to provide advice and information on 
     the development of the definition of sustainable chemistry 
     and the strategic plan.
       (B) Stakeholders.--In choosing the stakeholders described 
     in subparagraph (A)(iv), the entity described in paragraph 
     (1) is strongly encouraged to include representatives from--
       (i) industry (including small- and medium-sized enterprises 
     from across the value chain);
       (ii) the scientific community (including the National 
     Academy of Sciences, scientific professional societies, and 
     academia);
       (iii) the defense community;
       (iv) State, tribal, and local governments;
       (v) State or regional sustainable chemistry programs;
       (vi) non-governmental organizations; and
       (vii) other appropriate organizations.
       (c) Strategic Plan.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the entity described in subsection 
     (b)(1) shall submit to the Committee on Science, Space, and 
     Technology and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the 
     House of Representatives and the Committee on Environment and 
     Public Works and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate, a 5-year strategic plan that 
     shall include--
       (A) a summary of Federally funded sustainable chemistry 
     research, development, demonstration, technology transfer, 
     commercialization, education, and training activities;
       (B) a summary of the financial resources allocated to 
     sustainable chemistry activities;
       (C) an evaluation of best practices and coordination among 
     participating agencies; and
       (D) a framework for advancing sustainable chemistry, 
     including strategies for and benefits of Federal support 
     for--
       (i) sustainable chemistry research and development 
     conducted at Federal and national laboratories, Federal 
     agencies, and public and private institutions of higher 
     education;
       (ii) technology transfer and commercialization of 
     sustainable chemistry, including incentives and impediments 
     to development of sustainable chemicals, best practices, and 
     costs and benefits;
       (iii) education and training of undergraduate and graduate 
     students and professional scientists and engineers, including 
     through partnerships with industry, in sustainable chemistry 
     science and engineering;
       (iv) economic, legal, and other appropriate social science 
     research to identify barriers to commercialization and 
     methods to advance commercialization of sustainable 
     chemistry; and
       (v) public-private partnerships in support of sustainable 
     chemistry research, development, education, and training.
       (2) Submission to gao.--The entity described in subsection 
     (b)(1) shall submit the strategic plan described in paragraph 
     (1) to the Government Accountability Office for consideration 
     in future Congressional inquiries.
       (d) Sustainable Chemistry Basic Research.--Subject to the 
     availability of appropriated funds, the Director of the 
     National Science Foundation shall continue to carry out the 
     Sustainable Chemistry Basic Research program authorized under 
     section 509 of the National Science Foundation Authorization 
     Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 1862p-3).

        TITLE II--ADMINISTRATIVE AND REGULATORY BURDEN REDUCTION

     SEC. 201. INTERAGENCY WORKING GROUP ON RESEARCH REGULATION.

       (a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
       (1) Scientific and technological advancement have been the 
     largest drivers of economic growth in the last 50 years, with 
     the Federal Government being the largest investor in basic 
     research.
       (2) Federally funded grants are increasingly competitive, 
     with the Foundation funding only approximately 1 in every 5 
     grant proposals.
       (3) Researchers spend as much as 42 percent of their time 
     complying with Federal regulations, including administrative 
     tasks such as applying for grants or meeting reporting 
     requirements.
       (4) The time spent on the activities described in paragraph 
     (3) affects efficiency and reduces valuable research time.
       (b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that 
     administrative burdens faced by researchers may be reducing 
     the return on investment of federally funded research and 
     development.
       (c) Establishment.--The Director of the Office of 
     Management and Budget, in coordination with the Office of 
     Science and Technology Policy, shall establish an interagency 
     working group (referred to in this section as the ``Working 
     Group'') to reduce administrative burdens on federally funded 
     researchers while protecting the public interest in the 
     transparency of and accountability for federally funded 
     activities.
       (d) Responsibilities.--
       (1) In general.--The Working Group shall--
       (A) regularly review relevant, administration-related 
     regulations imposed on federally funded researchers; and
       (B) recommend those regulations or processes that may be 
     eliminated, streamlined, or otherwise improved for the 
     purpose described in subsection (c).
       (2) Grant review.--
       (A) In general.--The Working Group, in consultation with 
     the Office of Management and Budget, shall--
       (i) conduct a comprehensive review of Federal science 
     agency grant proposal documents; and
       (ii) develop, to the extent practicable, a simplified, 
     uniform grant format to be used by all Federal science 
     agencies.
       (B) Considerations.--In developing the uniform grant 
     format, the Working Group shall consider whether to 
     implement--
       (i) procedures for preliminary project proposals in advance 
     of peer-review selection;
       (ii) increased use of ``Just-In-Time'' procedures for 
     documentation that does not bear directly on the scientific 
     merit of a proposal;
       (iii) simplified initial budget proposals in advance of 
     peer review selection; and
       (iv) detailed budget proposals for applicants that peer 
     review selection identifies as likely to be funded.
       (3) Centralized researcher profile database.--
       (A) Establishment.--The Working Group shall establish, to 
     the extent practicable, a secure, centralized database for 
     investigator biosketches, curriculum vitae, licenses, 
     publications, and other documents considered relevant by the 
     Working Group.
       (B) Considerations.--In establishing the centralized 
     database under subparagraph (A), the Working Group shall 
     consider incorporating existing investigator databases.
       (C) Grant proposals.--To the extent practicable, all grant 
     proposals shall utilize the centralized researcher profile 
     database established under subparagraph (A).
       (D) Requirements.--Each investigator shall--
       (i) be responsible for ensuring the investigator's profile 
     is current and accurate; and
       (ii) be assigned a unique identifier linked to the database 
     and accessible to all Federal funding agencies.
       (4) Centralized assurances repository.--The Working Group 
     shall--
       (A) establish a central repository for all of the 
     assurances required for Federal research grants; and
       (B) provide guidance to universities and Federal science 
     agencies on the use of the centralized assurances repository.
       (5) Comprehensive review.--
       (A) In general.--The Working Group, in consultation with 
     the Office of Management and Budget, shall--
       (i) conduct a comprehensive review of the mandated progress 
     reports for federally funded research; and
       (ii) develop a strategy to simplify investigator progress 
     reports.
       (B) Considerations.--In developing the strategy, the 
     Working Group shall consider limiting progress reports to 
     performance outcomes.
       (e) Consultation.--In carrying out its responsibilities 
     under subsection (d)(1), the Working Group shall consult with 
     academic researchers outside the Federal Government, 
     including--
       (1) federally funded researchers;
       (2) non-federally funded researchers;
       (3) institutions of higher education and their 
     representative associations;
       (4) scientific and engineering disciplinary societies and 
     associations;
       (5) nonprofit research institutions;
       (6) industry, including small businesses;
       (7) federally funded research and development centers; and
       (8) members of the public with a stake in ensuring 
     effectiveness, efficiency, and accountability in the 
     performance of scientific research.
       (f) Reports.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, and periodically thereafter, the 
     Working Group shall submit to the appropriate committees of 
     Congress an annual report on its responsibilities under this 
     section, including recommendations under subsection 
     (d)(1)(B).

     SEC. 202. SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL COLLABORATION.

       (a) Definition of Scientific and Technical Workshop.--In 
     this section, the term ``scientific and technical workshop'' 
     means a symposium, seminar, or any other organized, formal 
     gathering where scientists or engineers working in STEM 
     research and development fields assemble to coordinate, 
     exchange and disseminate information or to explore or clarify 
     a defined subject, problem or area of knowledge in the STEM 
     fields.
       (b) Policy.--It is the policy of the United States to 
     encourage broad dissemination of Federal research findings 
     and engagement of Federal researchers with the scientific and 
     technical community.
       (c) Authority.--Laboratory, test center, and field center 
     directors and other similar heads of offices may approve 
     scientific and technical workshop attendance if--
       (1) that attendance would meet the mission of the 
     laboratory or test center; and
       (2) sufficient laboratory or test center funds are 
     available for that purpose.
       (d) Attendance Policies.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of 
     Management and Budget, in consultation with the Director of 
     the Office of Science and Technology Policy and the heads of 
     other relevant Federal science agencies, shall revise current 
     policies and streamline processes, in accordance with the 
     policy under subsection (b), for attendance at scientific and 
     technical workshops while ensuring appropriate oversight, 
     accountability, and transparency.
       (2) Considerations.--In revising the policy under paragraph 
     (1), the Director of the Office of Management and Budget 
     shall consider the goal of adjudicating a request to attend a 
     scientific and technical workshop not later than 30 days 
     after the date of the request.
       (3) Implementation.--Not later than 90 days after the date 
     the Director of the Office of Management and Budget revises 
     the policies under paragraph (1), the head of each Federal 
     science agency shall update that agency's policies for 
     attendance at scientific and technical workshops.

[[Page S7156]]

       (e) NIST Workshops.--Section 2(c) of the National Institute 
     of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 272(c)), as 
     amended by section 104 of this Act, is further amended--
       (1) by redesignating paragraphs (19) through (24) as 
     paragraphs (22) through (27), respectively; and
       (2) by inserting after paragraph (18) the following:
       ``(19) host, participate in, and support scientific and 
     technical workshops (as defined in section 202 of the 
     American Innovation and Competitiveness Act);
       ``(20) collect and retain any fees charged by the Secretary 
     for hosting a scientific and technical workshop described in 
     paragraph (19);
       ``(21) notwithstanding title 31 of the United States Code, 
     use the fees described in paragraph (20) to pay for any 
     related expenses, including subsistence expenses for 
     participants;''.

     SEC. 203. NIST GRANTS AND COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS UPDATE.

       Section 8(a) of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation 
     Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3706(a)) is amended by striking ``The 
     total amount of any such grant or cooperative agreement may 
     not exceed 75 percent of the total cost of the program.''.

     SEC. 204. REPEAL OF CERTAIN OBSOLETE REPORTS.

       (a) Repeal of Certain Obsolete Reports.--
       (1) NIST reports.--
       (A) Report on donation of educationally useful federal 
     equipment to schools.--Section 6(b) of the Technology 
     Administration Act of 1998 (15 U.S.C. 272 note) is amended--
       (i) in paragraph (1), by striking ``(1) In general.--'' and 
     indenting appropriately; and
       (ii) by striking paragraph (2).
       (B) Three-year programmatic planning document.--
       (i) In general.--Section 23 of the National Institute of 
     Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278i) is amended by 
     striking subsections (c) and (d).
       (ii) Conforming amendment.--Section 10(h)(1) of the 
     National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 
     278(h)(1)) is amended by striking the last sentence.
       (2) Multiagency report on innovation acceleration 
     research.--Section 1008 of the America COMPETES Act (42 
     U.S.C. 6603) is amended--
       (A) by striking subsection (c); and
       (B) by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (c).
       (3) NSF reports.--
       (A) Funding for successful stem education programs; report 
     to congress.--Section 7012 of the America COMPETES Act (42 
     U.S.C. 1862o-4) is amended by striking subsection (c).
       (B) Encouraging participation; evaluation and report.--
     Section 7031 of the America COMPETES Act (42 U.S.C. 1862o-11) 
     is amended by striking subsection (b).
       (C) Math and science partnerships program coordination 
     report.--Section 9(c) of the National Science Foundation 
     Authorization Act of 2002 (42 U.S.C. 1862n(c)) is amended--
       (i) by striking paragraph (4); and
       (ii) by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (4).
       (b) National Nanotechnology Initiative Reports.--The 21st 
     Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act (15 
     U.S.C. 7501 et seq.) is amended--
       (1) by amending section 2(c)(4) (15 U.S.C. 7501(c)(4)) to 
     read as follows:
       ``(4) develop, not later than 5 years after the date of the 
     release of the most-recent strategic plan, and update every 5 
     years thereafter, a strategic plan to guide the activities 
     described under subsection (b) that describes--
       ``(A) the near-term and long-term objectives for the 
     Program;
       ``(B) the anticipated schedule for achieving the near-term 
     objectives; and
       ``(C) the metrics that will be used to assess progress 
     toward the near-term and long-term objectives;
       ``(D) how the Program will move results out of the 
     laboratory and into application for the benefit of society;
       ``(E) the Program's support for long-term funding for 
     interdisciplinary research and development in nanotechnology; 
     and
       ``(F) the allocation of funding for interagency 
     nanotechnology projects;'';
       (2) by amending section 4(d) (15 U.S.C. 7503(d)) to read as 
     follows:
       ``(d) Reports.--Not later than 4 years after the date of 
     the most recent assessment under subsection (c), and 
     quadrennially thereafter, the Advisory Panel shall submit to 
     the President, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on Science, 
     Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives a 
     report its assessments under subsection (c) and its 
     recommendations for ways to improve the Program.''; and
       (3) in section 5 (15 U.S.C. 7504)--
       (A) in the heading, by striking ``triennial'' and inserting 
     ``quadrennial'';
       (B) in subsection (a), in the matter preceding paragraph 
     (1), by striking ``triennial'' and inserting ``quadrennial'';
       (C) in subsection (b), by striking ``triennial'' and 
     inserting ``quadrennial'';
       (D) in subsection (c), by striking ``triennial'' and 
     inserting ``quadrennial''; and
       (E) by amending subsection (d) to read as follows:
       ``(d) Report.--
       ``(1) In general.--Not later than 30 days after the date 
     the first evaluation under subsection (a) is received, and 
     quadrennially thereafter, the Director of the National 
     Nanotechnology Coordination Office shall report to the 
     President its assessments under subsection (c) and its 
     recommendations for ways to improve the Program.
       ``(2) Congress.--Not later than 30 days after the date the 
     President receives the report under paragraph (1), the 
     Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall 
     transmit a copy of the report to Congress.''.
       (c) Major Research Equipment and Facilities Construction.--
     Section 14 of the National Science Foundation Authorization 
     Act of 2002 (42 U.S.C. 1862n-4) is amended--
       (1) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows:
       ``(a) Prioritization of Proposed Major Research Equipment 
     and Facilities Construction.--
       ``(1) Development of priorities.--The Director shall--
       ``(A) develop a list indicating by number the relative 
     priority for funding under the major research equipment and 
     facilities construction account that the Director assigns to 
     each project the Board has approved for inclusion in a future 
     budget request; and
       ``(B) submit the list described in subparagraph (A) to the 
     Board for approval.
       ``(2) Criteria.--The Director shall include in the criteria 
     for developing the list under paragraph (1) the readiness of 
     plans for construction and operation, including confidence in 
     the estimates of the full life-cycle cost (as defined in 
     section 2 of the National Science Foundation Authorization 
     Act of 1998 (42 U.S.C. 1862k note)) and the proposed schedule 
     of completion.
       ``(3) Updates.--The Director shall update the list prepared 
     under paragraph (1) each time the Board approves a new 
     project that would receive funding under the major research 
     equipment and facilities construction account and 
     periodically submit any updated list to the Board for 
     approval.'';
       (2) by striking subsection (e);
       (3) by redesignating subsections (c) and (d) as subsections 
     (b) and (c), respectively; and
       (4) by amending subsection (c), as redesignated, to read as 
     follows:
       ``(c) Board Approval of Major Research Equipment and 
     Facilities Projects.--The Board shall explicitly approve any 
     project to be funded out of the major research equipment and 
     facilities construction account before any funds may be 
     obligated from such account for such project.''.

     SEC. 205. REPEAL OF CERTAIN PROVISIONS.

       (a) Technology Innovation Program.--
       (1) In general.--Section 28 of the National Institute of 
     Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278n) is repealed.
       (2) Conforming amendments.--
       (A) Additional award criteria.--Section 4226(b) of the 
     Small Business Jobs Act of 2010 (15 U.S.C. 278n note) is 
     repealed.
       (B) Management costs.--Section 2(d) of the National 
     Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 272(d)) 
     is amended by striking ``sections 25, 26, and 28'' and 
     inserting ``sections 25 and 26''.
       (C) Annual and other reports to secretary and congress.--
     Section 10(h)(1) of the National Institute of Standards and 
     Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278(h)(1)) is amended by striking 
     ``, including the Program established under section 28,''.
       (b) Teachers for a Competitive Tomorrow.--Sections 6111 
     through 6116 of the America COMPETES Act (20 U.S.C. 9811, 
     9812, 9813, 9814, 9815, 9816) and the items relating to those 
     sections in the table of contents under section 2 of that Act 
     (Public Law 110-69; 121 Stat. 572) are repealed.

     SEC. 206. GRANT SUBRECIPIENT TRANSPARENCY AND OVERSIGHT.

       By not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
     this Act, the Inspector General of the Foundation shall 
     prepare and submit to the appropriate committees of Congress 
     an audit of the Foundation's policies and procedures 
     governing the monitoring of pass-through entities with 
     respect to subrecipients. The audit shall include the 
     following:
       (1) Information regarding the Foundation's process to 
     oversee--
       (A) the compliance of pass-through entities pursuant to 
     section 200.331 and subpart F of part 200 of chapter II of 
     subtitle A of title 2, Code of Federal Regulations, and the 
     other requirements of such title 2 for subrecipients;
       (B) whether pass-through entities have processes and 
     controls in place regarding financial compliance of 
     subrecipients, where appropriate; and
       (C) whether pass-through entities have processes and 
     controls in place to maintain approved grant objectives for 
     subrecipients, where appropriate.
       (2) Any recommendations to increase the transparency and 
     oversight of the selection process, grant objectives, and 
     financial oversight of the pass-through entities, while 
     balancing administrative burdens.

     SEC. 207. MICRO-PURCHASE THRESHOLD FOR PROCUREMENT 
                   SOLICITATIONS BY RESEARCH INSTITUTIONS.

       (a) Micro-purchase Threshold.--The micro-purchase threshold 
     for procurement activities administered under sections 6303 
     through 6305 of title 31, United States Code, awarded by the 
     National Science Foundation, the National Aeronautics and 
     Space Administration, or the National Institute of Standards 
     and Technology to institutions of higher education (as 
     defined in section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 
     (20 U.S.C. 1001(a))), or related or affiliated nonprofit 
     entities, or to nonprofit research organizations or 
     independent research institutes is--
       (1) $10,000 (as adjusted periodically to account for 
     inflation); or
       (2) such higher threshold as determined appropriate by the 
     head of the relevant executive agency and consistent with 
     audit findings under chapter 75 of title 31, United States 
     Code, internal institutional risk assessment, or State law.
       (b) Uniform Guidance.--The Uniform Guidance shall be 
     revised to conform with the requirements of this section. For 
     purposes of the

[[Page S7157]]

     preceding sentence, the term ``Uniform Guidance'' means the 
     uniform administrative requirements, cost principles, and 
     audit requirements for Federal awards contained in part 200 
     of title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

    TITLE III--SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATH EDUCATION

     SEC. 301. ROBERT NOYCE TEACHER SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM UPDATE.

       Section 10A of the National Science Foundation 
     Authorization Act of 2002 (42 U.S.C. 1862n-1a) is amended by 
     adding at the end the following:
       ``(k) STEM Teacher Service and Retention.--
       ``(1) In general.--The Director shall develop and implement 
     practices for increasing the proportion of individuals 
     receiving fellowships under this section who--
       ``(A) fulfill the service obligation required under 
     subsection (h); and
       ``(B) remain in the teaching profession in a high need 
     local educational agency beyond the service obligation.
       ``(2) Practices.--The practices described under paragraph 
     (1) may include--
       ``(A) partnering with nonprofit or professional 
     associations or with other government entities to provide 
     individuals receiving fellowships under this section with 
     opportunities for professional development, including 
     mentorship programs that pair those individuals with 
     currently employed and recently retired science, technology, 
     engineering, mathematics, or computer science professionals;
       ``(B) increasing recruitment from high need districts;
       ``(C) establishing a system to better collect, track, and 
     respond to data on the career decisions of individuals 
     receiving fellowships under this section;
       ``(D) conducting research to better understand factors 
     relevant to teacher service and retention, including factors 
     specifically impacting the retention of teachers from 
     underrepresented groups, including women and minorities; and
       ``(E) conducting pilot programs to improve teacher service 
     and retention.''.

     SEC. 302. SPACE GRANTS.

       (a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that 
     the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program has 
     been an important program by which the Federal Government has 
     partnered with universities, colleges, industry, and other 
     organizations to provide hands-on STEM experiences, fostering 
     of multidisciplinary space research, and supporting graduate 
     fellowships in space-related fields, among other purposes.
       (b) Administrative Costs.--Section 40303 of title 51, 
     United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
     following:
       ``(d) Program Administration Costs.--In carrying out the 
     provisions of this chapter, the Administrator--
       ``(1) shall maximize appropriated funds for grants and 
     contracts made under section 40304 in each fiscal year; and
       ``(2) in each fiscal year, the Administrator shall limit 
     its program administration costs to no more than 5 percent of 
     funds appropriated for this program for that fiscal year.
       ``(e) Reports.--For any fiscal year in which the 
     Administrator cannot meet the administration cost target 
     under subsection (d)(2), if the Administration is unable to 
     limit program costs under subsection (b), the Administrator 
     shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a 
     report, including--
       ``(1) a description of why the Administrator did not meet 
     the cost target under subsection (d); and
       ``(2) the measures the Administrator will take in the next 
     fiscal year to meet the cost target under subsection (d) 
     without drawing upon other Federal funding.''.

     SEC. 303. STEM EDUCATION ADVISORY PANEL.

       (a) Establishment.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
     of enactment this Act, Director of the Foundation, the 
     Secretary of Education, the Administrator of the National 
     Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the Administrator 
     of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shall 
     jointly establish an advisory panel (referred to in this 
     section as the ``STEM Education Advisory Panel'') to advise 
     the Committee on STEM Education of the National Science and 
     Technology Council (referred to in this section as 
     ``CoSTEM'') on matters relating to STEM education.
       (b) Members.--
       (1) In general.--The STEM Education Advisory Panel shall be 
     composed of not less than 11 members.
       (2) Appointment.--
       (A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), the Director 
     of the Foundation, in consultation with the Secretary of 
     Education and the heads of the Federal science agencies, 
     shall appoint the members of the STEM Education Advisory 
     Panel.
       (B) Consideration.--In selecting individuals to appoint 
     under subparagraph (A), the Director of the Foundation shall 
     seek and give consideration to recommendations from Congress, 
     industry, the scientific community, including the National 
     Academy of Sciences, scientific professional societies, 
     academia, State and local governments, organizations 
     representing groups underrepresented in STEM fields, such as 
     women and minorities, and such other organizations as the 
     Director considers appropriate.
       (C) Qualifications.--Members shall--
       (i) primarily be individuals from academic institutions, 
     nonprofit organizations, and industry, including in-school, 
     out-of-school, and informal education practitioners; and
       (ii) be individuals who are qualified to provide advice and 
     information on STEM education research, development, 
     training, implementation, interventions, professional 
     development, or workforce needs or concerns.
       (c) Responsibilities.--
       (1) Assessment.--
       (A) In general.--The STEM Education Advisory Panel shall 
     advise CoSTEM and periodically assess its progress in 
     carrying out its responsibilities under section 101(b) of the 
     America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 
     6621(b)).
       (B) Considerations.--In its advisory role, the STEM 
     Education Advisory Panel shall consider--
       (i) the appropriateness of criteria used by Federal 
     agencies to evaluate the effectiveness of Federal STEM 
     education programs and activities;
       (ii) ways to leverage private and nonprofit STEM 
     investments and encourage public-private partnerships to 
     strengthen STEM education and help build the STEM workforce 
     pipeline; and
       (iii) how Federal agencies incentivize colleges and 
     universities to improve retention of STEM students.
       (2) Recommendations.--The STEM Education Advisory Panel 
     shall make recommendations to improve Federal STEM education 
     programs and activities based on the assessment under 
     paragraph (1).
       (d) Funding.--The Director of the Foundation, the Secretary 
     of Education, the Administrator of the National Aeronautics 
     and Space Administration, and the Administrator of the 
     National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shall jointly 
     make funds available on an annual basis to support the 
     activities of the STEM Education Advisory Panel.
       (e) Reports.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, and every 3 years thereafter, the STEM 
     Education Advisory Panel shall submit to the appropriate 
     committees of Congress, and CoSTEM a report on its assessment 
     under subsection (c)(1) and recommendations under subsection 
     (c)(2).
       (f) Travel Expenses of Non-Federal Members.--
       (1) In general.--Non-Federal members of the STEM Education 
     Advisory Panel, while attending meetings of the panel or 
     while otherwise serving at the request of a co-chairperson 
     away from their homes or regular places of business, may be 
     allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of 
     subsistence, as authorized by section 5703 of title 5, United 
     States Code, for individuals in the Government serving 
     without pay.
       (2) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this subsection shall 
     be construed to prohibit members of the STEM Advisory Panel 
     who are officers or employees of the United States from being 
     allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of 
     subsistence, in accordance with existing law.

     SEC. 304. COMMITTEE ON STEM EDUCATION.

       (a) Responsibilities.--Section 101(b) of the America 
     COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 6621(b)) is 
     amended--
       (1) in paragraph (5)(D), by striking ``; and'' and 
     inserting a semicolon;
       (2) in paragraph (6), by striking the period at the end and 
     inserting a semicolon; and
       (3) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(7) collaborate with the STEM Education Advisory Panel 
     established under section 303 of the American Innovation and 
     Competitiveness Act and other outside stakeholders to ensure 
     the engagement of the STEM education community;
       ``(8) review the measures used by a Federal agency to 
     evaluate its STEM education activities and programs;
       ``(9) request and review feedback from States on how the 
     States are utilizing Federal STEM education programs and 
     activities; and
       ``(10) recommend the reform, termination, or consolidation 
     of Federal STEM education activities and programs, taking 
     into consideration the recommendations of the STEM Education 
     Advisory Panel.''.
       (b) Reports.--Section 101 of the America COMPETES 
     Reauthorization Act of 2010 (42 U.S.C. 6621) is amended--
       (1) by striking ``(c) Report.--'' and inserting ``(d) 
     Reports.--'';
       (2) by striking ``(b) Responsibilities of OSTP.--'' and 
     inserting ``(c) Responsibilities of OSTP.--''; and
       (3) in subsection (d), as redesignated--
       (A) in paragraph (4), by striking ``; and'' and inserting a 
     semicolon;
       (B) in paragraph (5), by striking the period at the end and 
     inserting a semicolon; and
       (C) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(6) a description of all consolidations and terminations 
     of Federal STEM education programs and activities implemented 
     in the previous fiscal year, including an explanation for the 
     consolidations and terminations;
       ``(7) recommendations for reforms, consolidations, and 
     terminations of STEM education programs or activities in the 
     upcoming fiscal year; and
       ``(8) a description of any significant new STEM education 
     public-private partnerships.''.

     SEC. 305. GRANT PROGRAMS TO EXPAND STEM OPPORTUNITIES.

       (a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
       (1) Economic projections by the Bureau of Labor Statistics 
     indicate that by 2018, there could be 2.4 million unfilled 
     STEM jobs.
       (2) Women represent slightly more than half the United 
     States population, and projections indicate that 54 percent 
     of the population will be a member of a racial or ethnic 
     minority group by 2050.
       (3) Despite representing half the population, women 
     comprise only about 30 percent of STEM workers according to a 
     2015 report by the National Center for Science and 
     Engineering Statistics.
       (4) A 2014 National Center for Education Statistics study 
     found that women and underrepresented minorities leave the 
     STEM fields at higher rates than their counterparts.
       (5) The representation of women in STEM drops significantly 
     at the faculty level. Overall,

[[Page S7158]]

     women hold only 25 percent of all tenured and tenure-track 
     positions and 17 percent of full professor positions in STEM 
     fields in our Nation's universities and 4-year colleges.
       (6) Black and Hispanic faculty together hold about 6.5 
     percent of all tenured and tenure-track positions and 5 
     percent of full professor positions.
       (7) Many of the numbers in the American Indian or Alaskan 
     Native and Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander 
     categories for different faculty ranks were too small for the 
     National Science Foundation to report publicly without 
     potentially compromising confidential information about the 
     individuals being surveyed.
       (b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
       (1) it is critical to our Nation's economic leadership and 
     global competitiveness that we educate, train, and retain 
     more scientists, engineers, and computer scientists;
       (2) there is currently a disconnect between the 
     availability of and growing demand for STEM-skilled workers;
       (3) women, minorities, and persons with disabilities are 
     the largest untapped STEM talent pools in the United States; 
     and
       (4) given the shifting demographic landscape, the United 
     States should encourage full participation of individuals 
     described in paragraph (3) in STEM fields.
       (c) Reaffirmation.--The Director of the Foundation shall 
     continue to support existing programs designed to broaden 
     participation of women, minorities, and persons with 
     disabilities in STEM fields.
       (d) Program to Broaden Participation in STEM Fields.--
       (1) In general.--The Director of the Foundation shall award 
     grants on a competitive, merit-reviewed basis, to eligible 
     entities to increase the participation of women and groups 
     underrepresented in STEM fields.
       (2) Applications.--An applicant seeking a grant under this 
     section shall submit an application to the Director at such 
     time, in such manner, and containing such information as the 
     Director may require.
       (3) Use of funds.--Activities supported by grants under 
     this section may include the following:
       (A) Online workshops.
       (B) Mentoring programs that partner science, technology, 
     engineering, mathematics, or computer science professionals 
     with applicable students.
       (C) Internships for applicable undergraduate and graduate 
     students in STEM fields.
       (D) Conducting outreach programs that provide applicable 
     elementary school and secondary school students with 
     opportunities to increase their exposure to STEM fields.
       (E) Programs to increase the recruitment and retention of 
     underrepresented faculty.
       (F) Such additional programs as the Director of the 
     Foundation may consider appropriate.
       (e) Grant Program for Grades K Through 8.--
       (1) In general.--The Director of the Foundation shall award 
     grants to be used for research to advance the engagement of 
     students in grades kindergarten through 8 in STEM that are 
     designed to encourage interest, engagement, and skills 
     development of students in STEM fields, particularly those 
     who are members of groups underrepresented in STEM fields.
       (2) Use of funds.--Activities supported by grants under 
     this section may include--
       (A) development and implementation of programming described 
     in paragraph (1) for the purpose of research;
       (B) use of a variety of engagement methods, including 
     cooperative and hands-on learning;
       (C) exposure of students who are members of groups 
     underrepresented in STEM fields to role models, including 
     near-peers, in STEM fields;
       (D) mentors;
       (E) training of informal learning educators and youth-
     serving professionals using evidence-based methods consistent 
     with the target student population being served;
       (F) education of students on the relevance and significance 
     of STEM careers, provision of academic advice and assistance, 
     and activities designed to help students make real-world 
     connections to STEM content activities;
       (G) attendance of underrepresented students at events, 
     competitions, and academic programs to provide content 
     expertise and encourage career exposure in STEM;
       (H) activities designed to engage parents of 
     underrepresented students;
       (I) innovative strategies to engage underrepresented 
     students, such as using leadership skill outcome measures to 
     encourage youth with the confidence to pursue STEM course 
     work and academic study;
       (J) coordination with STEM-rich environments, including 
     other nonprofit, nongovernmental organizations, classroom and 
     out-of classroom settings, institutions of higher education, 
     vocational facilities, corporations, museums, or science 
     centers; and
       (K) acquisition of instructional materials or technology-
     based tools to conduct applicable grant activity.
       (3) Applications.--
       (A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), an applicant 
     seeking a grant under the section shall submit an application 
     to the Director at such time, in such manner, and containing 
     such information as the Director may require.
       (B) Requirements.--The application shall include, at a 
     minimum, the following:
       (i) A description of the target audience to be served by 
     the program.
       (ii) A description of the process for recruitment and 
     selection of students, as appropriate.
       (iii) A description of how such research activity may 
     inform programming that engages underrepresented students in 
     grades kindergarten through 8 in STEM.
       (iv) A description of how such research activity may inform 
     programming that promotes student academic achievement in 
     STEM.
       (v) An evaluation plan to determine the impact and efficacy 
     of activities being researched.
       (4) Consideration.--In awarding grants under this section, 
     the Director shall give consideration to applicants which, 
     for the purpose of grant activity, include or partner with an 
     organization that has extensive experience and expertise in 
     increasing the participation of underrepresented students in 
     STEM.
       (f) Accountability and Dissemination.--
       (1) Evaluation.--
       (A) In general.--Not later than 5 years after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Director shall evaluate the grants 
     provided under this section.
       (B) Requirements.--In conducting the evaluation under 
     subparagraph (A), the Director shall--
       (i) use a common set of benchmarks and assessment tools to 
     identify best practices and materials developed or 
     demonstrated by the research; and
       (ii) to the extent practicable, combine the research 
     resulting from the grant activity under subsection (e) with 
     the current research on serving underrepresented students in 
     grades kindergarten through 8.
       (2) Report on evaluations.--Not later than 180 days after 
     the completion of the evaluation under paragraph (1), the 
     Director shall submit to the appropriate committees of 
     Congress and make widely available to the public a report 
     that includes--
       (A) the results of the evaluation; and
       (B) any recommendations for administrative and legislative 
     action that could optimize the effectiveness of the program.
       (g) Coordination.--In carrying out this section, the 
     Director shall consult, cooperate, and coordinate, to enhance 
     program effectiveness and to avoid duplication, with the 
     programs and policies of other relevant Federal agencies.
       (h) Definition of Groups Underrepresented in STEM Fields.--
     In this section, the term ``groups underrepresented in STEM 
     fields'' has the meaning given the term ``underrepresented in 
     science and engineering'' in section 637.4(b) of title 34, 
     Code of Federal Regulations.

     SEC. 306. CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE FOR INCLUSION IN STEM.

       (a) Establishment.--The Director of the Foundation shall 
     carry out a program to award merit-reviewed, competitive 
     grants to institutions of higher education, or consortia 
     thereof, to establish not less than 1 Center of Excellence, 
     (referred to in this section as the ``Center'') to collect, 
     maintain, and disseminate information to increase 
     participation of women and groups underrepresented in STEM 
     fields (as defined in section 305(d)(4)).
       (b) Purpose.--The purpose of the Center is to promote 
     diversity in STEM fields by building on the success of the 
     INCLUDES programs, providing technical assistance, 
     maintaining best practices, and providing related training at 
     federally-funded academic institutions.
       (c) Program.--The Director of the Foundation shall 
     establish each Center through a merit-reviewed, competitive 
     award to an eligible entity for at least 3, but not more than 
     to 5 years.
       (d) Public Domain.--All program information developed, 
     collected, or maintained by a Center, except for personally 
     identifiable information, is and shall remain part of the 
     public domain.
       (e) Application.--To be eligible to receive a grant under 
     this section, an eligible institution shall prepare and 
     submit to the Director an application at such a time, in such 
     form, and containing such information as the Director may 
     require.
       (f) Activities.--Activities of a Center may include--
       (1) conducting and disseminating research on--
       (A) systemic factors and institutional policies that impede 
     or facilitate the recruitment, retention, and success of 
     underrepresented groups in STEM fields; and
       (B) best practices for mitigating the systemic factors and 
     institutional policies that impede inclusion of 
     underrepresented groups in STEM fields;
       (2) collaborating with institutions of higher education, 
     Federal agencies, industry, and relevant stakeholders to 
     develop policies and practices to facilitate the recruitment, 
     retention, and success of underrepresented groups in STEM;
       (3) providing educational opportunities for STEM faculty 
     members, staff, students, trainees, fellows, and 
     administrators to learn about inclusion in STEM and to 
     improve STEM mentoring;
       (4) developing and hosting intra- or inter-institutional 
     workshops, and providing ongoing support to workshop 
     participants, to propagate best practices in recruiting, 
     retaining, and advancing STEM faculty members, staff, 
     students, trainees, fellows, and administrators from 
     underrepresented groups at institutions of higher education;
       (5) assessing the effectiveness of efforts funded by a 
     Center or related efforts designed to increase inclusion in 
     STEM;
       (6) assessing how modern STEM learning environments can 
     increase the inclusion, engagement, and retention of students 
     in STEM fields, particularly for women and groups 
     underrepresented in STEM fields; and
       (7) such other actions as a Center determines are necessary 
     to further the inclusion of underrepresented groups in STEM.

     SEC. 307. NIST EDUCATION AND OUTREACH.

       (a) Repeals.--The National Institute of Standards and 
     Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 271 et seq.) is amended--
       (1) by striking section 18 (15 U.S.C. 278g-1); and
       (2) by striking section 19A (15 U.S.C. 278g-2a).
       (b) Education and Outreach.--The National Institute of 
     Standards and Technology Act (15

[[Page S7159]]

     U.S.C. 271 et seq.), as amended, is further amended by 
     inserting after section 17, the following:

     ``SEC. 18. EDUCATION AND OUTREACH.

       ``(a) In General.--The Director is authorized to expend 
     funds appropriated for activities of the Institute in any 
     fiscal year, to support, promote, and coordinate activities 
     and efforts to enhance public awareness and understanding of 
     measurement sciences, standards and technology at the 
     national measurement laboratories and otherwise in 
     fulfillment of the mission of the Institute. The Director may 
     carry out activities under this subsection, including 
     education and outreach activities to the general public, 
     industry and academia in support of the Institute's mission.
       ``(b) Hiring.--The Director, in coordination with the 
     Director of the Office of Personnel Management, may revise 
     the procedures the Director applies when making appointments 
     to laboratory positions within the competitive service--
       ``(1) to ensure corporate memory of and expertise in the 
     fundamental ongoing work, and on developing new capabilities 
     in priority areas;
       ``(2) to maintain high overall technical competence;
       ``(3) to improve staff diversity;
       ``(4) to balance emphases on the noncore and core areas; or
       ``(5) to improve the ability of the Institute to compete in 
     the marketplace for qualified personnel.
       ``(c) Volunteers.--
       ``(1) In general.--The Director may establish a program to 
     use volunteers in carrying out the programs of the Institute.
       ``(2) Acceptance of personnel.--The Director may accept, 
     subject to regulations issued by the Office of Personnel 
     Management, voluntary service for the Institute for such 
     purpose if the service--
       ``(A) is to be without compensation; and
       ``(B) will not be used to displace any current employee or 
     act as a substitute for any future full-time employee of the 
     Institute.
       ``(3) Federal employee status.--Any individual who provides 
     voluntary service under this subsection shall not be 
     considered a Federal employee, except for purposes of chapter 
     81 of title 5, United States Code (relating to compensation 
     for injury), and sections 2671 through 2680 of title 28, 
     United States Code (relating to tort claims).
       ``(d) Research Fellowships.--
       ``(1) In general.--The Director may expend funds 
     appropriated for activities of the Institute in any fiscal 
     year, as the Director considers appropriate, for awards of 
     research fellowships and other forms of financial and 
     logistical assistance, including direct stipend awards to--
       ``(A) students at institutions of higher learning within 
     the United States who show promise as present or future 
     contributors to the mission of the Institute; and
       ``(B) United States citizens for research and technical 
     activities of the Institute, including programs.
       ``(2) Selection criteria.--The selection of persons to 
     receive such fellowships and assistance shall be made on the 
     basis of ability and of the relevance of the proposed work to 
     the mission and programs of the Institute.
       ``(3) Financial and logistical assistance.--Notwithstanding 
     section 1345 of title 31, United States Code, or any other 
     law to the contrary, the Director may include as a form of 
     financial or logistical assistance under this subsection 
     temporary housing and transportation to and from Institute 
     facilities.
       ``(e) Educational Outreach Activities.--The Director may--
       ``(1) facilitate education programs for undergraduate and 
     graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and academic and 
     industry employees;
       ``(2) sponsor summer internships for STEM high school 
     teachers as appropriate;
       ``(3) develop programs for graduate student internships and 
     visiting faculty researchers;
       ``(4) document publications, presentations, and 
     interactions with visiting researchers and sponsoring interns 
     as performance metrics for improving and continuing 
     interactions with those individuals; and
       ``(5) facilitate laboratory tours and provide presentations 
     for educational, industry, and community groups.''.
       (c) Post-doctoral Fellowship Program.--Section 19 of the 
     National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 
     278g-2) is amended to read as follows:

     ``SEC. 19. POST-DOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM.

       ``(a) In General.--The Institute and the National Academy 
     of Sciences, jointly, shall establish and conduct a post-
     doctoral fellowship program, subject to the availability of 
     appropriations.
       ``(b) Organization.--The post-doctoral fellowship program 
     shall include not less than 20 nor more than 120 new fellows 
     per fiscal year.
       ``(c) Evaluations.--In evaluating applications for post-
     doctoral fellowships under this section, the Director of the 
     Institute and the President of the National Academy of 
     Sciences shall give consideration to the goal of promoting 
     the participation of underrepresented minorities in research 
     areas supported by the Institute.''.
       (d) Savings Clauses.--
       (1) Research fellowships and other financial assistance to 
     students at institutes of higher education.--The repeal made 
     by subsection (a)(1) of this section shall not affect any 
     award of a research fellowship or other form of financial 
     assistance made under section 18 of the National Institute of 
     Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278g-1) before the 
     date of enactment of this Act. Such award shall continue to 
     be subject to the requirements to which such funds were 
     subject under that section before the date of enactment of 
     this Act.
       (2)  Post-doctoral fellowship program.--The amendment made 
     by subsection (c) of this section shall not affect any award 
     of a post-doctoral fellowship or other form of financial 
     assistance made under section 19 of the National Institute of 
     Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278g-2) before the 
     date of enactment of this Act. Such awards shall continue to 
     be subject to the requirements to which such funds were 
     subject under that section before the date of enactment of 
     this Act.

     SEC. 308. PRESIDENTIAL AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN STEM 
                   MENTORING.

       (a) In General.--The Director of the Foundation shall 
     continue to administer awards on behalf of the Office of 
     Science and Technology Policy to recognize outstanding 
     mentoring in STEM fields.
       (b) Annual Award Recipients.--The Director of the 
     Foundation shall provide Congress with a list of award 
     recipients, including the name, institution, and a brief 
     synopsis of the impact of the mentoring efforts.

     SEC. 309. WORKING GROUP ON INCLUSION IN STEM FIELDS.

       (a) Establishment.--The Office of Science and Technology 
     Policy, in collaboration with Federal departments and 
     agencies, shall establish an interagency working group to 
     compile and summarize available research and best practices 
     on how to promote diversity and inclusions in STEM fields and 
     examine whether barriers exist to promoting diversity and 
     inclusion within Federal agencies employing scientists and 
     engineers.
       (b) Responsibilities.--The working group shall be 
     responsible for reviewing and assessing research, best 
     practices, and policies across Federal science agencies 
     related to the inclusion of underrepresented groups in the 
     Federal STEM workforce, including available research and best 
     practices on how to promote diversity and inclusion in STEM 
     fields, including--
       (1) policies providing flexibility for scientists and 
     engineers that are also caregivers, particularly on the 
     timing of research grants;
       (2) policies to address the proper handling of claims of 
     sexual harassment;
       (3) policies to minimize the effects of implicit bias and 
     other systemic factors in hiring, promotion, evaluation and 
     the workplace in general; and
       (4) other evidence-based strategies that the working group 
     considers effective for promoting diversity and inclusion in 
     the STEM fields.
       (c) Stakeholder Input.--In carrying out the 
     responsibilities under section (b), the working group shall 
     solicit and consider input and recommendations from non-
     Federal stakeholders, including--
       (1) the Council of Advisors on Science and Technology;
       (2) federally funded and non-federally funded researchers, 
     institutions of higher education, scientific disciplinary 
     societies, and associations;
       (3) nonprofit research institutions;
       (4) industry, including small businesses;
       (5) federally funded research and development centers;
       (6) non-governmental organizations; and
       (7) such other members of the public interested in 
     promoting a diverse and inclusive Federal STEM workforce.
       (d) Public Reports.--Not later than 1 year after the date 
     of enactment of this Act, and periodically thereafter, the 
     working group shall publish a report on the review and 
     assessment under subsection (b), including a summary of 
     available research and best practices, any recommendations 
     for Federal actions to promote a diverse and inclusive 
     Federal STEM workforce, and updates on the implementation of 
     previous recommendations for Federal actions.
       (e) Termination of Effectiveness.--The authority provided 
     by subsection (a) terminates effective on the date that is 10 
     years after the date that the working group is established.

     SEC. 310. IMPROVING UNDERGRADUATE STEM EXPERIENCES.

       (a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that 
     each Federal science agency should invest in and expand 
     research opportunities for undergraduate students attending 
     institutions of higher education during the undergraduate 
     student's first 2 academic years of postsecondary education.
       (b) Identification of Research Programs.--Not later than 1 
     year after the date of enactment of this Act, the head of 
     each Federal agency shall submit to the President 
     recommendations regarding how the agency could best fulfill 
     the goals described in subsection (a).
       (c) Broader Impacts.--Section 526(a)(6) of the America 
     COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-358; 124 
     Stat. 4019) is amended to read as follows:
       ``(6) Improved undergraduate STEM education and 
     instruction.''.

     SEC. 311. COMPUTER SCIENCE EDUCATION RESEARCH.

       (a) Findings.--Congress finds that as the lead Federal 
     agency for building the research knowledge base for computer 
     science education, the Foundation is well positioned to make 
     investments that will accelerate ongoing efforts to enable 
     rigorous and engaging computer science throughout the Nation.
       (b) Grant Program.--
       (1) In general.--The Director of the Foundation shall award 
     grants to eligible entities to research computer science 
     education and computational thinking.
       (2) Research.--The research described in paragraph (1) may 
     include the development or adaptation, piloting or full 
     implementation, and testing of--
       (A) models of preservice preparation for teachers who will 
     teach computer science and computational thinking;

[[Page S7160]]

       (B) scalable and sustainable models of professional 
     development and ongoing support for the teachers described in 
     subparagraph (A);
       (C) tools and models for teaching and learning aimed at 
     supporting student success and inclusion in computing within 
     and across diverse populations, particularly poor, rural, and 
     tribal populations and other populations that have been 
     traditionally underrepresented in computer science and STEM 
     fields; and
       (D) instructional materials and high-quality learning 
     opportunities for teaching computer science and, especially 
     in poor, rural, or tribal schools at the elementary school 
     and middle school levels, for integrating computational 
     thinking into STEM teaching and learning.
       (c) Collaborations.--In carrying out the grants established 
     in subsection (b), eligible entities may collaborate and 
     partner with local or remote schools to support the 
     integration of computing and computational thinking within 
     pre-kindergarten through grade 12 STEM curricula and 
     instruction.
       (d) Metrics.--The Director of the Foundation shall develop 
     metrics to measure the success of the grant program funded 
     under this section in achieving program goals.
       (e) Report.--The Director of the Foundation shall report, 
     in the annual budget submission to Congress, on the success 
     of the program as measured by the metrics in subsection (d).
       (f) Definition of Eligible Entity.--In this section, the 
     term ``eligible entity'' means an institution of higher 
     education or a nonprofit research organization.

     SEC. 312. INFORMAL STEM EDUCATION.

       (a) National STEM Partnership Grants.--The Director of the 
     National Science Foundation may award, through a cross-
     Directorate process including the Directorate for Education 
     and Human Resources and at least one additional Directorate 
     of the Foundation, competitive, merit-reviewed grants to 
     support a national partnership of institutions involved in 
     informal STEM learning.
       (b) Use of Funds.--Activities supported by grants under 
     this section may include--
       (1) fostering and implementing on-going partnerships 
     between institutions involved in informal STEM learning, 
     institutions of higher education, and education research 
     centers; and
       (2) developing, adapting, and making available informal 
     STEM education activities and educational materials for broad 
     implementation.

     SEC. 313. DEVELOPING STEM APPRENTICESHIPS.

       (a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
       (1) The lack of data on the return on investment for United 
     States employers using registered apprenticeships makes it 
     difficult--
       (A) to communicate the value of these programs to 
     businesses; and
       (B) to expand registered apprenticeships.
       (2) The lack of data on the value and impact of employer-
     provided worker training, which is likely substantial, 
     hinders the ability of the Federal Government to formulate 
     policy related to workforce training.
       (3) The Secretary of Commerce has initiated--
       (A) the first study on the return on investment for United 
     States employers using registered apprenticeships through 
     case studies of firms in various sectors, occupations, and 
     geographic locations to provide the business community with 
     data on employer benefits and costs; and
       (B) discussions with officials at relevant Federal agencies 
     about the need to collect comprehensive data on--
       (i) employer-provided worker training; and
       (ii) existing tools that could be used to collect such 
     data.
       (b) Development of Apprenticeship Information.--The 
     Secretary of Commerce shall continue to research the value to 
     businesses of utilizing apprenticeship programs, including--
       (1) evidence of return on investment of apprenticeships, 
     including estimates for the average time it takes a business 
     to recover the costs associated with training apprentices; 
     and
       (2) data from the United States Census Bureau and other 
     statistical surveys on employer-provided training, including 
     apprenticeships and other on-the-job training and industry-
     recognized certification programs.
       (c) Dissemination of Apprenticeship Information.--The 
     Secretary of Commerce shall disseminate findings from 
     research on apprenticeships to businesses and other relevant 
     stakeholders, including--
       (1) institutions of higher education;
       (2) State and local chambers of commerce; and
       (3) workforce training organizations.
       (d) Studying Approaches to Collecting Employer-provided 
     Worker Training Data.--The Secretary of Commerce and the 
     Secretary of Labor shall--
       (1) collaborate to identify approaches to collecting 
     employer-provided worker training data;
       (2) provide a report to the relevant congressional 
     committees on--
       (A) the existing tools available to collect such data; and
       (B) the time and cost of collecting such data; and
       (3) provide recommendations to the relevant congressional 
     committees on additional tools that may be needed to collect 
     such data.
       (e) New Apprenticeship Program Study.--The Secretary of 
     Commerce and the Secretary of Labor shall collaborate to 
     study approaches for reducing the cost of creating new 
     apprenticeship programs and hosting apprentices for 
     businesses, particularly small businesses, including--
       (1) training sharing agreements;
       (2) group training models; and
       (3) pooling resources and best practices.
       (f) Economic Development Administration Grants.--The 
     Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 
     3701 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:

     ``SEC. 28. STEM APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS.

       ``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Commerce may carry out 
     a grant program to identify the need for skilled science, 
     technology, engineering, and mathematics (referred to in this 
     section as `STEM') workers and to expand STEM apprenticeship 
     programs.
       ``(b) Eligible Recipient Defined.--In this section, the 
     term `eligible recipient' means--
       ``(1) a State;
       ``(2) an Indian tribe;
       ``(3) a city or other political subdivision of a State;
       ``(4) an entity that--
       ``(A) is a nonprofit organization, an institution of higher 
     education, a public-private partnership, a science or 
     research park, a Federal laboratory, or an economic 
     development organization or similar entity; and
       ``(B) has an application that is supported by a State, a 
     political subdivision of a State, or a native organization; 
     or
       ``(5) a consortium of any of the entities described in 
     paragraphs (1) through (5).
       ``(c) Needs Assessment Grants.--The Secretary of Commerce 
     may provide a grant to an eligible recipient to conduct a 
     needs assessment to identify--
       ``(1) the unmet need of a region's employer base for 
     skilled STEM workers;
       ``(2) the potential of STEM apprenticeships to address the 
     unmet need described in paragraph (1); and
       ``(3) any barriers to addressing the unmet need described 
     in paragraph (1).
       ``(d) Apprenticeship Expansion Grants.--The Secretary of 
     Commerce may provide a grant to an eligible recipient that 
     has conducted a needs assessment as described in subsection 
     (c)(1) to develop infrastructure to expand STEM 
     apprenticeship programs.''.

     SEC. 314. NSF REPORT ON BROADENING PARTICIPATION.

       Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this 
     Act, the National Science Foundation shall--
       (1) review data on the participation in Foundation 
     activities of institutions serving groups that are 
     underrepresented in STEM disciplines, including poor, rural, 
     and tribal populations; and
       (2) submit to Congress a report on the findings from such 
     review and a recommendation or recommendations regarding how 
     the Foundation could improve outreach and inclusion of these 
     groups in Foundation activities.

     SEC. 315. NOAA OCEAN AND ATMOSPHERIC SCIENCE EDUCATION 
                   PROGRAMS.

       (a) In General.--Subsection (a) of section 4002 of the 
     America COMPETES Act (33 U.S.C. 893a) is amended by inserting 
     after ``from underrepresented groups'' the following: ``, 
     including ethnic, racial, and economic minority groups,''.
       (b) Educational Program Goals.--Paragraph (4) of section 
     4002(b) of the America COMPETES Act (33 U.S.C. 893a(b)) is 
     amended--
       (1) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``and'' at the end;
       (2) by redesignating subparagraph (C) and subparagraph (D);
       (3) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following:
       ``(C) are designed considering the unique needs of 
     underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, translating such 
     materials and other resources into appropriate multi-lingual 
     curricula;''; and
       (4) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(E) are promoted widely, especially among 
     underrepresented groups (including among racial and ethnic 
     minority communities); and''.
       (c) Metrics.--Section 4002 of the America COMPETES Act (33 
     U.S.C. 893a) is amended--
       (1) by redesignating subsections (d) and (e) as subsections 
     (e) and (f), respectively; and
       (2) by adding after section (c) the following:
       ``(d) Metrics.--In executing the National Oceanic and 
     Atmospheric Administration science education plan under 
     subsection (c), the Administrator shall maintain a 
     comprehensive system for evaluating the Administration's 
     educational programs and activities. In so doing, the 
     Administrator shall ensure that such education programs have 
     measurable objectives and milestones as well as clear, 
     documented metrics for evaluating programs. For each such 
     education program or portfolio of similar programs, the 
     Administrator shall--
       ``(1) encourage the collection of evidence as relevant to 
     the measurable objectives and milestones; and
       ``(2) ensure that program or portfolio evaluations focus on 
     educational outcomes and not just inputs, activities 
     completed, or the number of participants.''.

                TITLE IV--LEVERAGING THE PRIVATE SECTOR

     SEC. 401. PRIZE COMPETITION AUTHORITY UPDATE.

       Section 24 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation 
     Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3719) is amended--
       (1) in subsection (c)--
       (A) in the subsection heading, by striking ``Prizes'' and 
     by inserting ``Prize Competitions'';
       (B) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking 
     ``prize may be one or more of the following'' and inserting 
     ``prize competition may be 1 or more of the following types 
     of activities'';
       (C) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``competition'' after 
     ``prize''; and
       (D) in paragraphs (3) and (4), by striking ``prizes'' and 
     inserting ``prize competitions'';
       (2) in subsection (f)--
       (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking ``in 
     the Federal Register'' and inserting ``on a publicly 
     accessible Government website, such as www.challenge.gov,'';
       (B) in paragraphs (1), (2), and (3), by inserting ``prize'' 
     before ``competition''; and

[[Page S7161]]

       (C) in paragraph (4), by striking ``prize'' and inserting 
     ``cash prize purse or non-cash prize award'';
       (3) in subsection (g)--
       (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking 
     ``prize'' and inserting ``cash prize purse''; and
       (B) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``prize'' before 
     ``competition'';
       (4) in subsection (h), by inserting ``prize'' before 
     ``competition'' each place it appears;
       (5) in subsection (i)--
       (A) in paragraph (1)(B), by inserting ``prize'' before 
     ``competition'';
       (B) in paragraph (2)(A), by inserting ``prize'' before 
     ``competition'' each place it appears;
       (C) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (4); and
       (D) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
       ``(3) Waivers.--
       ``(A) In general.--An agency may waive the requirement 
     under paragraph (2).
       ``(B) List.--The Director shall include a list of all of 
     the waivers granted under this paragraph during the preceding 
     fiscal year, including a detailed explanation of the reason 
     for granting the waiver.'';
       (6) in subsection (j)--
       (A) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``prize'' before 
     ``competition'';
       (B) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
       ``(2) Licenses.--As appropriate and to further the goals of 
     a prize competition, the Federal Government may--
       ``(A) negotiate a license for the use of intellectual 
     property developed by a registered participant in a prize 
     competition; or
       ``(B) require a registered participant in a prize 
     competition to provide an open license to the public for the 
     use of the intellectual property if that requirement is 
     disclosed prior to registration.''; and
       (C) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(3) Electronic consent.--The Federal Government may 
     obtain consent to the intellectual property and licensing 
     terms of a prize competition from participants during the 
     online registration for the prize competition.'';
       (7) in subsection (k)--
       (A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``each competition'' and 
     inserting ``each prize competition'' each place it appears;
       (B) in paragraph (2)(A), by inserting ``prize'' before 
     ``competition''; and
       (C) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``prize'' before 
     ``competitions'' each place it appears;
       (8) in subsection (l), by striking ``an agreement with'' 
     and all that follows through the period at the end and 
     inserting ``a grant, contract, cooperative agreement, or 
     other agreement with a private sector for-profit or nonprofit 
     entity or State or local government agency to administer the 
     prize competition, subject to the provisions of this 
     section.'';
       (9) in subsection (m)--
       (A) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:
       ``(1) In general.--Support for a prize competition under 
     this section, including financial support for the design and 
     administration of a prize competition or funds for a cash 
     prize purse, may consist of Federal appropriated funds and 
     funds provided by private sector for-profit and nonprofit 
     entities. The head of an agency may request and accept funds 
     from other Federal agencies, State, United States territory, 
     local, or tribal government agencies, private sector for-
     profit entities, and nonprofit entities, to be available to 
     the extent provided by appropriations Acts, to support such 
     prize competitions. The head of an agency may not give any 
     special consideration to any agency or entity in return for a 
     donation.'';
       (B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``prize awards'' and 
     inserting ``cash prize purses or non-cash prize awards'';
       (C) in paragraph (3)--
       (i) by amending subparagraph (A) to read as follows:
       ``(A) Announcement.--No prize competition may be announced 
     under subsection (f) until all the funds needed to pay out 
     the announced amount of the cash prize purse have been 
     appropriated or committed in writing by a private or State, 
     United States territory, local, or tribal government 
     source.''; and
       (ii) in subparagraph (B)--

       (I) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking ``a 
     prize'' and inserting ``a cash prize purse or non-cash prize 
     award'';
       (II) in clause (i), by inserting ``competition'' after 
     ``prize''; and
       (III) in clause (ii), by inserting ``or State, United 
     States territory, local, or tribal government'' after 
     ``private'';

       (D) in paragraph (4)--
       (i) in subparagraph (A)--

       (I) by striking ``a prize'' and inserting ``a cash prize 
     purse or a non-cash prize award''; and
       (II) by striking ``Science and Technology'' and inserting 
     ``Science, Space, and Technology''; and

       (ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``cash prizes'' and 
     inserting ``cash prize purses or non-cash prize awards'';
       (10) in subsection (n)--
       (A) in the heading, by striking ``Service'' and inserting 
     ``Services'';
       (B) by striking ``the date of the enactment of the America 
     COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010,'' and inserting ``the 
     date of enactment of the American Innovation and 
     Competitiveness Act,''; and
       (C) by inserting ``for both for-profit and nonprofit 
     entities and State, United States territory, local, and 
     tribal government entities,'' after ``contract vehicle'';
       (11) in subsection (o)(1), by striking ``or providing a 
     prize'' and inserting ``a prize competition or providing a 
     cash prize purse or non-cash prize award''; and
       (12) in subsection (p)--
       (A) in the heading, by striking ``Annual'' and inserting 
     ``Biennial'';
       (B) in paragraph (1)--
       (i) by striking ``each year'' and inserting ``every other 
     year'';
       (ii) by striking ``Science and Technology'' and inserting 
     ``Science, Space, and Technology''; and
       (iii) by striking ``fiscal year'' and inserting ``2 fiscal 
     years''; and
       (C) in paragraph (2)--
       (i) by striking ``The report for a fiscal year'' and 
     inserting ``A report'';
       (ii) in subparagraph (C)--

       (I) in the heading, by striking ``prizes'' and inserting 
     ``prize purses or non-cash prize awards''; and
       (II) by striking ``cash prizes'' each place it appears and 
     inserting ``cash prize purses or non-cash prize awards''; and

       (iii) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(G) Plan.--A description of crosscutting topical areas 
     and agency-specific mission needs that may be the strongest 
     opportunities for prize competitions during the upcoming 2 
     fiscal years.''.

     SEC. 402. CROWDSOURCING AND CITIZEN SCIENCE.

       (a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
       (1) the authority granted to Federal agencies under the 
     America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-
     358; 124 Stat. 3982) to pursue the use of incentive prizes 
     and challenges has yielded numerous benefits;
       (2) crowdsourcing and citizen science projects have a 
     number of additional unique benefits, including accelerating 
     scientific research, increasing cost effectiveness to 
     maximize the return on taxpayer dollars, addressing societal 
     needs, providing hands-on learning in STEM, and connecting 
     members of the public directly to Federal agency missions and 
     to each other; and
       (3) granting Federal agencies the direct, explicit 
     authority to use crowdsourcing and citizen science will 
     encourage its appropriate use to advance agency missions and 
     stimulate and facilitate broader public participation in the 
     innovation process, yielding numerous benefits to the Federal 
     Government and citizens who participate in such projects.
       (b) Definitions.--In this section:
       (1) Citizen science.--The term ``citizen science'' means a 
     form of open collaboration in which individuals or 
     organizations participate voluntarily in the scientific 
     process in various ways, including--
       (A) enabling the formulation of research questions;
       (B) creating and refining project design;
       (C) conducting scientific experiments;
       (D) collecting and analyzing data;
       (E) interpreting the results of data;
       (F) developing technologies and applications;
       (G) making discoveries; and
       (H) solving problems.
       (2) Crowdsourcing.--The term ``crowdsourcing'' means a 
     method to obtain needed services, ideas, or content by 
     soliciting voluntary contributions from a group of 
     individuals or organizations, especially from an online 
     community.
       (3) Participant.--The term ``participant'' means any 
     individual or other entity that has volunteered in a 
     crowdsourcing or citizen science project under this section.
       (c) Crowdsourcing and Citizen Science.--
       (1) In general.--The head of each Federal agency, or the 
     heads of multiple Federal agencies working cooperatively, may 
     utilize crowdsourcing and citizen science to conduct 
     activities designed to advance the mission of the respective 
     Federal agency or the joint mission of Federal agencies, as 
     applicable.
       (2) Voluntary services.--Notwithstanding section 1342 of 
     title 31, United States Code, the head of a Federal agency 
     may accept, subject to regulations issued by the Director of 
     the Office of Personnel Management, services from 
     participants under this section if such services--
       (A) are performed voluntarily as a part of a crowdsourcing 
     or citizen science project authorized under paragraph (1);
       (B) are not financially compensated for their time; and
       (C) will not be used to displace any employee of the 
     Federal Government.
       (3) Outreach.--The head of each Federal agency engaged in a 
     crowdsourcing or citizen science project under this section 
     shall make public and promote such project to encourage broad 
     participation.
       (4) Consent, registration, and terms of use.--
       (A) In general.--Each Federal agency is authorized to 
     determine the appropriate level of consent, registration, or 
     acknowledgment of the terms of use that are required from 
     participants in crowdsourcing or citizen science projects 
     under this section on a per-project basis.
       (B) Disclosures.--In seeking consent, conducting 
     registration, or developing terms of use for a project under 
     this subsection, a Federal agency shall disclose the privacy, 
     intellectual property, data ownership, compensation, service, 
     program, and other terms of use to the participant in a clear 
     and reasonable manner.
       (C) Mode of consent.--A Federal agency or Federal agencies, 
     as applicable, may obtain consent electronically or in 
     written form from participants under this section.
       (5) Protections for human subjects.--Any crowdsourcing or 
     citizen science project under this section that involves 
     research involving human subjects shall be subject to part 46 
     of title 28, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor 
     regulation).
       (6) Data.--
       (A) In general.--A Federal agency shall, where appropriate 
     and to the extent practicable, make data collected through a 
     crowdsourcing or

[[Page S7162]]

     citizen science project under this section available to the 
     public, in a machine readable format, unless prohibited by 
     law.
       (B) Notice.--As part of the consent process, the Federal 
     agency shall notify all participants--
       (i) of the expected uses of the data compiled through the 
     project;
       (ii) if the Federal agency will retain ownership of such 
     data;
       (iii) if and how the data and results from the project 
     would be made available for public or third party use; and
       (iv) if participants are authorized to publish such data.
       (7) Technologies and applications.--Federal agencies shall 
     endeavor to make technologies, applications, code, and 
     derivations of such intellectual property developed through a 
     crowdsourcing or citizen science project under this section 
     available to the public.
       (8) Liability.--Each participant in a crowdsourcing or 
     citizen science project under this section shall agree--
       (A) to assume any and all risks associated with such 
     participation; and
       (B) to waive all claims against the Federal Government and 
     its related entities, except for claims based on willful 
     misconduct, for any injury, death, damage, or loss of 
     property, revenue, or profits (whether direct, indirect, or 
     consequential) arising from participation in the project.
       (9) Scientific integrity.--Federal agencies coordinating 
     crowdsourcing or citizen science projects under this section 
     shall make all practicable efforts to ensure that 
     participants adhere to all relevant scientific integrity or 
     other applicable ethics policies.
       (10) Multi-sector partnerships.--The head of each Federal 
     agency engaged in crowdsourcing or citizen science under this 
     section, or the heads of multiple Federal agencies working 
     cooperatively, may enter into a contract or other agreement 
     to share administrative duties for such activities with--
       (A) a for profit or nonprofit private sector entity, 
     including a private institution of higher education;
       (B) a State, tribal, local, or foreign government agency, 
     including a public institution of higher education; or
       (C) a public-private partnership.
       (11) Funding.--In carrying out crowdsourcing and citizen 
     science projects under this section, the head of a Federal 
     agency, or the heads of multiple Federal agencies working 
     cooperatively--
       (A) may use funds appropriated by Congress;
       (B) may publicize projects and solicit and accept funds or 
     in-kind support for such activities from--
       (i) other Federal agencies;
       (ii) for profit or nonprofit private sector entities, 
     including private institutions of higher education; or
       (iii) State, tribal, local, or foreign government agencies, 
     including public institutions of higher education; and
       (C) may not give any special consideration to any entity 
     described in subparagraph (ii) in return for such funds or 
     in-kind support.
       (12) Facilitation.--
       (A) General services administration assistance.--The 
     Administrator of the General Services Administration, in 
     coordination with the Director of the Office of Personnel 
     Management, shall, at no cost to Federal agencies, identify 
     and develop relevant products, training, and services to 
     facilitate the use of crowdsourcing and citizen science 
     projects under this section, including by specifying the 
     appropriate contract vehicles and technology and 
     organizational platforms to enhance the ability of Federal 
     agencies to carry out the activities under this section.
       (B) Additional guidance.--The head of each Federal agency 
     engaged in crowdsourcing or citizen science under this 
     section is encouraged--
       (i) to consult any guidance provided by the Director of the 
     Office of Science and Technology Policy, including the 
     Federal Crowdsourcing and Citizen Science Toolkit;
       (ii) to designate a coordinator for that Federal agency's 
     crowdsourcing and citizen science projects; and
       (iii) to share best practices with other Federal agencies, 
     including participation of staff in the Federal Community of 
     Practice for Crowdsourcing and Citizen Science.
       (d) Report.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
     the enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of 
     Science and Technology Policy shall include, as a component 
     of a report required under section 24(p) of the Stevenson-
     Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3719(p)), 
     a report on the activities carried out under this section.
       (2) Information included.--The report required under 
     paragraph (1) shall include--
       (A) a summary of each crowdsourcing and citizen science 
     project conducted by a Federal agency during the most 
     recently completed 2 fiscal years, including a description of 
     the proposed goals of each crowdsourcing and citizen science 
     project;
       (B) the participation rates, submission levels, number of 
     consents, or any other statistic that might be considered 
     relevant in each crowdsourcing and citizen science project;
       (C) a description of--
       (i) the resources (including personnel and funding) that 
     were used in the execution of each crowdsourcing and citizen 
     science project;
       (ii) the activities for which such resources were used; and
       (iii) how the obligations and expenditures relating to the 
     project's execution were allocated among the accounts of the 
     Federal agency;
       (D) a summary of the use of crowdsourcing and citizen 
     science by all Federal agencies, including interagency and 
     multi-sector partnerships; and
       (E) any other information that the Director of the Office 
     of Science and Technology Policy considers relevant.
       (e) Savings Provision.--Nothing in this section may be 
     construed--
       (1) to affect the authority to conduct crowdsourcing and 
     citizen science authorized by any other provision of law; or
       (2) to displace Federal Government resources allocated to 
     the Federal agencies that use crowdsourcing or citizen 
     science authorized under this section to carry out a project.

     SEC. 403. NIST OTHER TRANSACTION AUTHORITY UPDATE.

       Section 2(b)(4) of the National Institute of Standards and 
     Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 272(b)(4)) is amended to read as 
     follows:
       ``(4) to enter into and perform such contracts, including 
     cooperative research and development arrangements, grants, 
     cooperative agreements, real property leases, or other 
     transactions, as may be necessary in furtherance of the 
     purposes of this Act and on such terms as the Director 
     considers appropriate;''.

     SEC. 404. NIST VISITING COMMITTEE ON ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY 
                   UPDATE.

       Section 10(a) of the National Institute of Standards and 
     Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278(a)) is amended--
       (1) in the second sentence, by striking ``15 members 
     appointed by the Director, at least 10 of whom'' and ``not 
     fewer than 9 members appointed by the Director, a majority of 
     whom''; and
       (2) in the third sentence, by striking ``National Bureau of 
     Standards'' and inserting ``National Institute of Standards 
     and Technology''.

                         TITLE V--MANUFACTURING

     SEC. 501. HOLLINGS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION PARTNERSHIP 
                   IMPROVEMENTS.

       (a) In General.--Section 25 of the National Institute of 
     Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278k) is amended to 
     read as follows:

     ``SEC. 25. HOLLINGS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION PARTNERSHIP.

       ``(a) Definitions.--In this section:
       ``(1) Appropriate committees of congress.--The term 
     `appropriate committees of Congress' means--
       ``(A) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate; and
       ``(B) the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of 
     the House of Representatives.
       ``(2) Area career and technical education school.--The term 
     `area career and technical education school' has the meaning 
     given the term in section 3 of the Vocational Education Act 
     of 1963 (20 U.S.C. 2302).
       ``(3) Center.--The term `Center' means a manufacturing 
     extension center that--
       ``(A) is created under subsection (b); and
       ``(B) is affiliated with an eligible entity that applies 
     for and is awarded financial support under subsection (e).
       ``(4) Community college.--The term `community college' 
     means an institution of higher education (as defined under 
     section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 
     1001(a))) at which the highest degree that is predominately 
     awarded to students is an associate's degree.
       ``(5) Eligible entity.--The term `eligible entity' means a 
     United States-based nonprofit institution, or consortium 
     thereof, an institution of higher education, or a State, 
     United States territory, local, or tribal government.
       ``(6) Hollings manufacturing extension partnership or 
     program.--The term `Hollings Manufacturing Extension 
     Partnership' or `Program' means the program established under 
     subsection (b).
       ``(7) MEP advisory board.--The term `MEP Advisory Board' 
     means the Manufacturing Extension Partnership Advisory Board 
     established under subsection (n).
       ``(b) Establishment and Purpose.--The Secretary, acting 
     through the Director and, if appropriate, through other 
     Federal officials, shall establish a program to provide 
     assistance for the creation and support of manufacturing 
     extension centers for the transfer of manufacturing 
     technology and best business practices.
       ``(c) Objective.--The objective of the Program shall be to 
     enhance competitiveness, productivity, and technological 
     performance in United States manufacturing through--
       ``(1) the transfer of manufacturing technology and 
     techniques developed at the Institute to Centers and, through 
     them, to manufacturing companies throughout the United 
     States;
       ``(2) the participation of individuals from industry, 
     institutions of higher education, State governments, other 
     Federal agencies, and, when appropriate, the Institute in 
     cooperative technology transfer activities;
       ``(3) efforts to make new manufacturing technology and 
     processes usable by United States-based small and medium-
     sized companies;
       ``(4) the active dissemination of scientific, engineering, 
     technical, and management information about manufacturing to 
     industrial firms, including small and medium-sized 
     manufacturing companies;
       ``(5) the utilization, when appropriate, of the expertise 
     and capability that exists in Federal agencies, other than 
     the Institute, and federally-sponsored laboratories;
       ``(6) the provision to community colleges and area career 
     and technical education schools of information about the job 
     skills needed in manufacturing companies, including small and 
     medium-sized manufacturing businesses in the regions they 
     serve;
       ``(7) the promotion and expansion of certification systems, 
     including efforts to assist small- and medium-sized 
     manufacturing businesses in creating new apprenticeships or 
     utilizing existing apprenticeships, such as facilitating 
     training and providing access to information and experts, to 
     address workforce needs and skills gaps; and

[[Page S7163]]

       ``(8) the growth in employment and wages at United States-
     based small and medium-sized companies.
       ``(d) Activities.--The activities of a Center shall 
     include--
       ``(1) the establishment of automated manufacturing systems 
     and other advanced production technologies, based on 
     Institute-supported research, for the purpose of 
     demonstrations and technology transfer;
       ``(2) the active transfer and dissemination of research 
     findings and Center expertise to a wide range of companies 
     and enterprises, particularly small and medium-sized 
     manufacturers; and
       ``(3) the facilitation of collaborations and partnerships 
     between small and medium-sized manufacturing companies , 
     community colleges, and area career and technical education 
     schools, to help those entities better understand the 
     specific needs of manufacturers and to help manufacturers 
     better understand the skill sets that students learn in the 
     programs offered by such colleges and schools.
       ``(e) Financial Assistance.--
       ``(1) Authorization.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), 
     the Secretary may provide financial assistance for the 
     creation and support of a Center through a cooperative 
     agreement with an eligible entity.
       ``(2) Cost sharing.--The Secretary may not provide more 
     than 50 percent of the capital and annual operating and 
     maintenance funds required to establish and support a Center.
       ``(3) Rule of construction.--For purposes of paragraph (2), 
     any amount received by an eligible entity for a Center under 
     a provision of law other than paragraph (1) shall not be 
     considered an amount provided under paragraph (1).
       ``(f) Applications.--
       ``(1) In general.--An eligible entity shall submit an 
     application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, 
     and containing such information as the Secretary may require.
       ``(2) Program description.--The Secretary shall establish 
     and update, as necessary--
       ``(A) a description of the Program;
       ``(B) the application procedures;
       ``(C) performance metrics;
       ``(D) criteria for determining qualified applicants; and
       ``(E) criteria for choosing recipients of financial 
     assistance from among the qualified applicants.
       ``(F) procedures for determining allowable cost share 
     contributions; and
       ``(G) such other program policy objectives and operational 
     procedures as the Secretary considers necessary.
       ``(3) Cost sharing.--
       ``(A) In general.--To be considered for financial 
     assistance under this section, an applicant shall provide 
     adequate assurances that the applicant and if applicable, the 
     applicant's partnering organizations, will obtain funding for 
     not less than 50 percent of the capital and annual operating 
     and maintenance funds required to establish and support the 
     Center from sources other than the financial assistance 
     provided under subsection (e).
       ``(B) Agreements with other entities.--In meeting the cost-
     sharing requirement under subparagraph (A), an eligible 
     entity may enter into an agreement with 1 or more other 
     entities, such as a private industry, an institution of 
     higher education, or a State, United States territory, local, 
     or tribal government for the contribution by that other 
     entity of funding if the Secretary determines the agreement--
       ``(i) is programmatically reasonable;
       ``(ii) will help accomplish programmatic objectives; and
       ``(iii) is allocable under Program procedures under 
     subsection (f)(2).
       ``(4) Legal rights.--Each applicant shall include in the 
     application a proposal for the allocation of the legal rights 
     associated with any intellectual property which may result 
     from the activities of the Center.
       ``(5) Merit review of applications.--
       ``(A) In general.--The Secretary shall subject each 
     application to merit review.
       ``(B) Considerations.--In making a decision whether to 
     approve an application and provide financial assistance under 
     subsection (e), the Secretary shall consider, at a minimum--
       ``(i) the merits of the application, particularly those 
     portions of the application regarding technology transfer, 
     training and education, and adaptation of manufacturing 
     technologies to the needs of particular industrial sectors;
       ``(ii) the quality of service to be provided;
       ``(iii) the geographical diversity and extent of the 
     service area; and
       ``(iv) the type and percentage of funding from other 
     sources under paragraph (3).
       ``(g) Evaluations.--
       ``(1) Third and eighth year evaluations by panel.--
       ``(A) In general.--The Secretary shall ensure that each 
     Center is evaluated during its third and eighth years of 
     operation by an evaluation panel appointed by the Secretary.
       ``(B) Composition.--The Secretary shall ensure that each 
     evaluation panel appointed under subparagraph (A) is composed 
     of--
       ``(i) private experts, none of whom are connected with the 
     Center evaluated by the panel; and
       ``(ii) Federal officials.
       ``(C) Chairperson.--For each evaluation panel appointed 
     under subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall appoint a 
     chairperson who is an official of the Institute.
       ``(2) Fifth year evaluations by secretary.--In the fifth 
     year of operation of a Center, the Secretary shall conduct a 
     review of the Center.
       ``(3) Performance measurement.--In evaluating a Center an 
     evaluation panel or the Secretary, as applicable, shall 
     measure the performance of the Center against--
       ``(A) the objective specified in subsection (c);
       ``(B) the performance metrics under subsection (f)(2)(C); 
     and
       ``(C) such other criterion as considered appropriate by the 
     Secretary.
       ``(4) Positive evaluations.--If an evaluation of a Center 
     is positive, the Secretary may continue to provide financial 
     assistance for the Center--
       ``(A) in the case of an evaluation occurring in the third 
     year of a Center, through the fifth year of the Center;
       ``(B) in the case of an evaluation occurring in the fifth 
     year of a Center, through the eighth year of the Center; and
       ``(C) in the case of an evaluation occurring in the eighth 
     year of a Center, through the tenth year of the Center.
       ``(5) Other than positive evaluations.--
       ``(A) Probation.--If an evaluation of a Center is other 
     than positive, the Secretary shall put the Center on 
     probation during the period beginning on the date that the 
     Center receives notice under subparagraph (B)(i) and ending 
     on the date that the reevaluation is complete under 
     subparagraph (B)(iii).
       ``(B) Notice and reevaluation.--If a Center receives an 
     evaluation that is other than positive, the evaluation panel 
     or Secretary, as applicable, shall--
       ``(i) notify the Center of the reason, including any 
     deficiencies in the performance of the Center identified 
     during the evaluation;
       ``(ii) assist the Center in remedying the deficiencies by 
     providing the Center, not less frequently than once every 3 
     months, an analysis of the Center, if considered appropriate 
     by the panel or Secretary, as applicable; and
       ``(iii) reevaluate the Center not later than 1 year after 
     the date of the notice under clause (i).
       ``(C) Continued support during period of probation.--The 
     Secretary may continue to provide financial assistance under 
     subsection (e) for a Center during the probation period.
       ``(6) Failure to remedy.--
       ``(A) In general.--If a Center fails to remedy a deficiency 
     or to show significant improvement in performance before the 
     end of the probation period under paragraph (5), the 
     Secretary shall conduct a competition to select an operator 
     for the Center under subsection (h).
       ``(B) Treatment of centers subject to new competition.--
     Upon the selection of an operator for a Center under 
     subsection (h), the Center shall be considered a new Center 
     and the calculation of the years of operation of that Center 
     for purposes of paragraphs (1) through (5) of this subsection 
     and subsection (h)(1) shall start anew.
       ``(h) Reapplication Competition for Financial Assistance 
     After 10 Years.--
       ``(1) In general.--If an eligible entity has operated a 
     Center under this section for a period of 10 consecutive 
     years, the Secretary shall conduct a competition to select an 
     eligible entity to operate the Center in accordance with the 
     process plan under subsection (i).
       ``(2) Incumbent eligible entities.--An eligible entity that 
     has received financial assistance under this section for a 
     period of 10 consecutive years and that the Secretary 
     determines is in good standing shall be eligible to compete 
     in the competition under paragraph (1).
       ``(3) Treatment of centers subject to reapplication 
     competition.--Upon the selection of an operator for a Center 
     under paragraph (1), the Center shall be considered a new 
     Center and the calculation of the years of operation of that 
     Center for purposes of paragraphs (1) through (5) of 
     subsection (g) shall start anew.
       ``(i) Process Plan.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
     of the enactment of the American Innovation and 
     Competitiveness Act, the Secretary shall implement and submit 
     to Congress a plan for how the Institute will conduct an 
     evaluation, competition, and reapplication competition under 
     this section.
       ``(j) Operational Requirements.--
       ``(1) Protection of confidential information of center 
     clients.--The following information, if obtained by the 
     Federal Government in connection with an activity of a Center 
     or the Program, shall be exempt from public disclosure under 
     section 552 of title 5, United States Code:
       ``(A) Information on the business operation of any 
     participant in the Program or of a client of a Center.
       ``(B) Trade secrets of any client of a Center.
       ``(k) Oversight Boards.--
       ``(1) In general.--As a condition on receipt of financial 
     assistance for a Center under subsection (e), an eligible 
     entity shall establish a board to oversee the operations of 
     the Center.
       ``(2) Standards.--
       ``(A) In general.--The Director shall establish appropriate 
     standards for each board described under paragraph (1).
       ``(B) Considerations.--In establishing the standards, the 
     Director shall take into account the type and organizational 
     structure of an eligible entity.
       ``(C) Requirements.--The standards shall address, at a 
     minimum--
       ``(i) membership;
       ``(ii) composition;
       ``(iii) term limits;
       ``(iv) conflicts of interest; and
       ``(v) whether to limit board members serving on multiple 
     boards under this section.
       ``(3) Membership.--
       ``(A) In general.--Each board established under paragraph 
     (1) shall be composed of members as follows:
       ``(i) The membership of each board shall be representative 
     of stakeholders in the region in which the Center is located.
       ``(ii) A majority of the members of the board shall be 
     selected from among individuals who own or are employed by 
     small or medium-sized manufacturers.
       ``(B) Limitation.--A member of a board established under 
     paragraph (1) may not serve on

[[Page S7164]]

     more than 1 board established under that paragraph.
       ``(4) Bylaws.--
       ``(A) In general.--Each board established under paragraph 
     (1) shall adopt and submit to the Director bylaws to govern 
     the operation of the board.
       ``(B) Conflicts of interest.--Bylaws adopted under 
     subparagraph (A) shall include policies to minimize conflicts 
     of interest, including such policies relating to disclosure 
     of relationships and recusal as may be necessary to minimize 
     conflicts of interest.
       ``(l) Acceptance of Funds.--In addition to such sums as may 
     be appropriated to the Secretary and Director to operate the 
     Program, the Secretary and Director may also accept funds 
     from other Federal departments and agencies and from the 
     private sector under section 2(c)(7) of this Act (15 U.S.C. 
     272(c)(7)), to be available to the extent provided by 
     appropriations Acts, for the purpose of strengthening United 
     States manufacturing.
       ``(m) MEP Advisory Board.--
       ``(1) Establishment.--There is established within the 
     Institute a Manufacturing Extension Partnership Advisory 
     Board.
       ``(2) Membership.--
       ``(A) Composition.--
       ``(i) In general.--The MEP Advisory Board shall consist of 
     not fewer than 10 members appointed by the Director and 
     broadly representative of stakeholders.
       ``(ii) Requirements.--Of the members appointed under clause 
     (i)--

       ``(I) at least 2 members shall be employed by or on an 
     advisory board for a Center; and
       ``(II) at least 5 other members shall be from United States 
     small businesses in the manufacturing sector.

       ``(iii) Limitation.--No member of the MEP Advisory Board 
     shall be an employee of the Federal Government.
       ``(B) Term.--Except as provided in subparagraph (C), the 
     term of office of each member of the MEP Advisory Board shall 
     be 3 years.
       ``(C) Vacancies.--Any member appointed to fill a vacancy 
     occurring prior to the expiration of the term for which his 
     predecessor was appointed shall be appointed for the 
     remainder of such term.
       ``(D) Serving consecutive terms.--Any person who has 
     completed 2 consecutive full terms of service on the MEP 
     Advisory Board shall thereafter be ineligible for appointment 
     during the 1-year period following the expiration of the 
     second such term.
       ``(3) Meetings.--The MEP Advisory Board shall--
       ``(A) meet not less than biannually; and
       ``(B) provide to the Director--
       ``(i) advice on the activities, plans, and policies of the 
     Program;
       ``(ii) assessments of the soundness of the plans and 
     strategies of the Program; and
       ``(iii) assessments of current performance against the 
     plans of the Program.
       ``(4) FACA applicability.--
       ``(A) In general.--In discharging its duties under this 
     subsection, the MEP Advisory Board shall function solely in 
     an advisory capacity, in accordance with the Federal Advisory 
     Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.).
       ``(B) Exception.--Section 14 of the Federal Advisory 
     Committee Act shall not apply to the MEP Advisory Board.
       ``(5) Annual report.--
       ``(A) In general.--At a minimum, the MEP Advisory Board 
     shall transmit an annual report to the Secretary for 
     transmittal to Congress not later than 30 days after the 
     submission to Congress of the President's annual budget 
     request in each year.
       ``(B) Contents.--The report shall address the status of the 
     Program and describe the relevant sections of the 
     programmatic planning document and updates thereto 
     transmitted to Congress by the Director under subsections (c) 
     and (d) of section 23 (15 U.S.C. 278i).
       ``(n) Small Manufacturers.--
       ``(1) Evaluation of obstacles.--As part of the Program, the 
     Director shall--
       ``(A) identify obstacles that prevent small manufacturers 
     from effectively competing in the global market;
       ``(B) implement a comprehensive plan to train the Centers 
     to address the obstacles identified in paragraph (2); and
       ``(C) facilitate improved communication between the Centers 
     to assist such manufacturers in implementing appropriate, 
     targeted solutions to the obstacles identified in paragraph 
     (2).
       ``(2) Development of open access resources.--As part of the 
     Program, the Secretary shall develop open access resources 
     that address best practices related to inventory sourcing, 
     supply chain management, manufacturing techniques, available 
     Federal resources, and other topics to further the 
     competitiveness and profitability of small manufacturers.''.
       (b) Competitive Awards Program.--The National Institute of 
     Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 271 et seq.) is 
     amended by inserting after section 25 the following:

     ``SEC. 25A. COMPETITIVE AWARDS PROGRAM.

       ``(a) Establishment.--The Director shall establish within 
     the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership under 
     section 25 (15 U.S.C. 278k) and section 26 (15 U.S.C. 278l) a 
     program of competitive awards among participants described in 
     subsection (b) of this section for the purposes described in 
     subsection (c).
       ``(b) Participants.--Participants receiving awards under 
     this section shall be Centers, or a consortium of Centers.
       ``(c) Purpose, Themes, and Reimbursement.--
       ``(1) Purpose.--The purpose of the program established 
     under subsection (a) is to add capabilities to the Hollings 
     Manufacturing Extension Partnership, including the 
     development of projects to solve new or emerging 
     manufacturing problems as determined by the Director, in 
     consultation with the Director of the Hollings Manufacturing 
     Extension Partnership, the MEP Advisory Board, other Federal 
     agencies, and small and medium-sized manufacturers.
       ``(2) Themes.--The Director may identify 1 or more themes 
     for a competition carried out under this section, which may 
     vary from year to year, as the Director considers appropriate 
     after assessing the needs of manufacturers and the success of 
     previous competitions.
       ``(3) Reimbursement.--Centers may be reimbursed for costs 
     incurred by the Centers under this section.
       ``(d) Applications.--Applications for awards under this 
     section shall be submitted in such manner, at such time, and 
     containing such information as the Director shall require in 
     consultation with the MEP Advisory Board.
       ``(e) Selection.--
       ``(1) Peer review and competitively awarded.--The Director 
     shall ensure that awards under this section are peer reviewed 
     and competitively awarded.
       ``(2) Geographic diversity.--The Director shall endeavor to 
     have broad geographic diversity among selected proposals.
       ``(3) Criteria.--The Director shall select applications to 
     receive awards that the Director determines will achieve 1 or 
     more of the following:
       ``(A) Improve the competitiveness of industries in the 
     region in which the Center or Centers are located.
       ``(B) Create jobs or train newly hired employees.
       ``(C) Promote the transfer and commercialization of 
     research and technology from institutions of higher 
     education, national laboratories or other Federally-funded 
     research programs, and nonprofit research institutes.
       ``(D) Recruit a diverse manufacturing workforce, including 
     through outreach to women and minorities.
       ``(E) Such other result as the Director determines will 
     advance the objective set forth in section 25(c) (15 U.S.C. 
     278k) or in section 26 (15 U.S.C. 278l).
       ``(f) Program Contribution.--Recipients of awards under 
     this section shall not be required to provide a matching 
     contribution.
       ``(g) Global Marketplace Projects.--In making an award 
     under this section, the Director, in consultation with the 
     MEP Advisory Board and the Secretary, may take into 
     consideration whether an application has significant 
     potential for enhancing the competitiveness of small and 
     medium-sized United States manufacturers in the global 
     marketplace.
       ``(h) Duration.--The duration of an award under this 
     section shall be for not more than 3 years.
       ``(i) Definitions.--The terms used in this section have the 
     meanings given the terms in section 25 (15 U.S.C. 278k).''.
       (c) GAO Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United 
     States, in consultation with the MEP Advisory Board (as 
     defined in section 25 of the National Institute of Standards 
     and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278k), shall submit to the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of 
     the House of Representatives a report analyzing--
       (1) the effectiveness of the changes in the cost share to 
     Centers under section 25 of the National Institute of 
     Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278k);
       (2) the engagement in services and the characteristics of 
     services provided by 2 types of Centers, including volume and 
     type of service; and
       (3) whether the cost-sharing ratio has any effect on the 
     services provided by either type of Center.
       (d) Conforming Amendments.--
       (1) Definitions.--Section 2199(3) of title 10, United 
     States Code, is amended--
       (A) by striking ``regional center'' and inserting 
     ``manufacturing extension center'';
       (B) by inserting ``and best business practices'' before 
     ``referred''; and
       (C) by striking ``25(a)'' and inserting ``25(b)''.
       (2) Enterprise integration initiative.--Section 3(a) of the 
     Enterprise Integration Act of 2002 (15 U.S.C. 278g-5(a)) is 
     amended by inserting ``Hollings'' before ``Manufacturing 
     Extension Partnership''.
       (3) Assistance to state technology programs.--Section 26(a) 
     of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 
     U.S.C. 278l(a)) is amended by striking ``Centers program 
     created'' and inserting ``Hollings Manufacturing Extension 
     Partnership''.
       (e) Savings Provisions.--Notwithstanding the amendments 
     made by subsections (a) and (b) of this section, the 
     Secretary of Commerce may carry out section 25 of the 
     National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 
     278k) as that section was in effect on the day before the 
     date of enactment of this Act, with respect to existing 
     grants, agreements, cooperative agreements, or contracts, and 
     with respect to applications for such items that are received 
     by the Secretary prior to the date of enactment of this Act.

     SEC. 502. FEDERAL LOAN GUARANTEES FOR INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES 
                   IN MANUFACTURING.

       Section 26(o) of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation 
     Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3721(o)) is amended--
       (1) by inserting ``(1) In general.--'' before ``To the 
     maximum'' and indenting appropriately; and
       (2) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(2) Access to capital.--The Secretary, in coordination 
     with the Small Business Administration and the National 
     Institute of Standards and Technology, shall identify any 
     gaps in the access of small- or medium-sized manufacturers to 
     capital for the use or production of innovative technologies 
     that the program could fill,

[[Page S7165]]

     and develop marketing materials and conduct outreach to 
     target those gaps.''.

     SEC. 503. MANUFACTURING COMMUNITIES.

       (a) Short Title.--This section may be cited as the ``Made 
     in America Manufacturing Communities Act of 2016''.
       (b) Definitions.--In this section:
       (1) Manufacturing community support program.--The term 
     ``Manufacturing Community Support Program'' means the program 
     established under subsection (c).
       (2) Participating agency.--The term ``participating 
     agency'' means a Federal agency that elects to participate in 
     the Manufacturing Community Support Program.
       (3) Participating program.--The term ``participating 
     program'' means a program identified by a participating 
     agency under subsection (d)(1)(C).
       (4) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary 
     of Commerce.
       (c) Program to Designate and Support Manufacturing 
     Communities.--The Secretary shall establish a program to 
     improve the competitiveness of United States manufacturing 
     by--
       (1) designating consortiums as manufacturing communities 
     under subsection (e); and
       (2) supporting manufacturing communities, as so designated, 
     under subsection (d).
       (d) Support for Designated Manufacturing Communities.--
       (1) Preferential consideration.--
       (A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph (D), if 
     a member of a consortium designated as a manufacturing 
     community under subsection (e) seeks financial or technical 
     assistance under a participating program of a participating 
     agency, the head of such agency may give preferential 
     consideration to such member with respect to the awarding of 
     such financial or technical assistance if--
       (i) such head considers the award of the financial or 
     technical assistance consistent with the economic development 
     strategy of the consortium; and
       (ii) the member otherwise meets all applicable requirements 
     for the financial or technical assistance.
       (B) Participating agencies.--The Secretary shall invite 
     other Federal agencies to become participating agencies of 
     the Manufacturing Community Support Program.
       (C) Participating programs.--The head of each participating 
     agency shall identify all programs administered by such 
     participating agency that are applicable to the Manufacturing 
     Community Support Program.
       (D) Multiple members of the same consortium seeking the 
     same financial or technical assistance.--
       (i) In general.--If a participating agency receives 
     applications for the same financial or technical assistance 
     from more than 1 member of the same consortium designated as 
     a manufacturing community under subsection (e), the head of 
     such agency may determine how preference will be given under 
     subparagraph (A), including by requiring the consortium to 
     select which of the members should be given preference.
       (ii) Coordination.--If the head of a participating agency 
     determines that more than 1 member of a consortium should be 
     given preference under subparagraph (A) for financial or 
     technical assistance, he or she may require such members to 
     demonstrate coordination with each other in developing their 
     applications for the financial or technical assistance.
       (E) Report.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the 
     enactment of this Act, the head of each participating agency 
     shall submit a report to the Secretary that specifies how the 
     head will give preferential consideration under subparagraph 
     (A).
       (2) Technical assistance.--The Secretary may make a Federal 
     point of contact available to each consortium designated as a 
     manufacturing community under subsection (e) to help the 
     members of the consortium access Federal funds and technical 
     assistance.
       (3) Financial and technical assistance.--
       (A) In general.--Under the Manufacturing Community Support 
     Program, the head of a participating agency may award 
     financial or technical assistance to a member of a consortium 
     designated as a manufacturing community under subsection (e) 
     as he or she considers appropriate for purposes of such 
     program and consistent with the economic development strategy 
     of the consortium.
       (B) Use of funds.--
       (i) In general.--A recipient of financial or technical 
     assistance under subparagraph (A) may use such financial or 
     technical assistance to support an investment in an ecosystem 
     that will improve the competitiveness of United States 
     manufacturing.
       (ii) Investments supported.--Investments supported under 
     this subparagraph may include--

       (I) infrastructure;
       (II) access to capital;
       (III) promotion of exports and foreign direct investment;
       (IV) equipment or facility upgrades;
       (V) workforce training or retraining;
       (VI) energy or process efficiency;
       (VII) business incubators;
       (VIII) site preparation;
       (IX) advanced research;
       (X) supply chain development; and
       (XI) small business assistance.

       (4) Coordination.--
       (A) Coordination by secretary of commerce.--The Secretary 
     shall coordinate with the heads of the participating agencies 
     to identify programs under paragraph (1)(C)(i).
       (B) Inter-agency coordination.--The heads of the 
     participating agencies shall coordinate with each other--
       (i) to leverage complementary activities, including from 
     non-Federal sources, such as philanthropies; and
       (ii) to avoid duplication of efforts.
       (e) Designation of Manufacturing Communities.--
       (1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (7), for 
     purposes of the Manufacturing Community Support Program, the 
     Secretary shall designate eligible consortiums (as described 
     in paragraph (2)) as manufacturing communities through a 
     competitive process.
       (2) Eligible consortiums.--
       (A) In general.--An eligible consortium is a consortium 
     that--
       (i) represents a region defined by the consortium in 
     accordance with subparagraph (B);
       (ii) includes at least 1--

       (I) institution of higher education;
       (II) a private sector entity; and
       (III) a government entity;

       (iii) may include 1 or more--

       (I) private sector partners;
       (II) institutions of higher education;
       (III) government entities;
       (IV) economic development and other community and labor 
     groups;
       (V) financial institutions; or
       (VI) utilities;

       (iv) has, as a lead applicant--

       (I) a district organization (as defined in section 300.3 of 
     title 13, Code of Federal Regulations, or successor 
     regulation);
       (II) an Indian tribe (as defined in section 4 of the Indian 
     Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 
     450b)) or a consortium of Indian tribes;
       (III) a State or a political subdivision of a State, 
     including a special purpose unit of a State or local 
     government engaged in economic or infrastructure development 
     activities, or a consortium of political subdivisions;
       (IV) an institution of higher education or a consortium of 
     institutions of higher education; or
       (V) a public or private nonprofit organization or 
     association that has an application that is supported by a 
     State, a political subdivision of a State, or a native 
     community.

       (B) Regions.--Subject to approval by the Secretary, a 
     consortium may define the region that it represents if the 
     region--
       (i) is large enough to contain critical elements of the key 
     technologies or supply chain prioritized by the consortium; 
     and
       (ii) is small enough to enable close collaboration among 
     members of the consortium.
       (3) Duration.--Each designation under paragraph (1) shall 
     be for a period of 2 years.
       (4) Renewal.--
       (A) In general.--Upon receipt of an application submitted 
     under subparagraph (B), the Secretary may renew a designation 
     made under paragraph (1) for up to 2 additional 2-year 
     periods. Any designation as a manufacturing community or 
     renewal of such designation that is in effect before the date 
     of the enactment of this Act shall count toward the limit set 
     forth in this subparagraph.
       (B) Application for renewal.--An eligible consortium 
     seeking a renewal under subparagraph (A) shall submit an 
     application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, 
     and containing such information as the Secretary may require.
       (C) Modifications authorized.--The Secretary may renew a 
     designation under subparagraph (A) for an eligible consortium 
     that--
       (i) has changed its composition, either by adding or 
     removing members; or
       (ii) as part of its application under subparagraph (B), 
     submits a revision to the plan submitted under paragraph 
     (5)(B)(iv) or the strategy submitted under paragraph 
     (5)(B)(v).
       (D) Evaluation for renewal.--In determining whether to 
     renew a designation of an eligible consortium under paragraph 
     (1), the Secretary shall assess the eligible consortium based 
     upon--
       (i) the performance of the consortium against the terms of 
     the consortium's most recent designation under paragraph (1) 
     and any post-designation awards the consortium may have 
     received;
       (ii) the progress the consortium has made with respect to 
     project-specific metrics the consortium proposed in the 
     consortium's application for the most recent designation 
     under paragraph (1), particularly with respect to those 
     metrics that were designed to help communities track their 
     own progress;
       (iii) whether any changes to the composition of the 
     eligible consortium or revisions to the plan or strategy 
     described in subparagraph (C)(ii) would improve the 
     competitiveness of United States manufacturing; and
       (iv) such other criteria as the Secretary considers 
     appropriate.
       (5) Application for designation.--
       (A) In general.--An eligible consortium seeking a 
     designation under paragraph (1) shall submit an application 
     to the Secretary at such time and in such manner as the 
     Secretary may require.
       (B) Contents.--Each application submitted to the Secretary 
     under subparagraph (A) include--
       (i) a description of the regional boundaries of the 
     consortium;
       (ii) a description of the manufacturing concentration of 
     the consortium, including an assessment of how the 
     manufacturing concentration of the consortium competitively 
     ranks nationally according to measures relating to 
     employment, sales, location quotients for an industry's level 
     of concentration, or such other measures as the Secretary 
     considers appropriate;
       (iii) an integrated assessment of the local industrial 
     ecosystem of the region of the consortium, which may include 
     assessment of workforce and training, supplier network, 
     research and innovation, infrastructure or site development, 
     trade and international investment, operational improvements, 
     and capital access components needed for manufacturing 
     activities in such region;

[[Page S7166]]

       (iv) an evidence-based plan for developing components of 
     such ecosystem (selected by the consortium) by making--

       (I) specific investments to address gaps in such ecosystem; 
     and
       (II) the manufacturing of the region of the consortium 
     uniquely competitive;

       (v) a description of the investments the consortium 
     proposes and the implementation strategy the consortium 
     intends to use to address gaps in such ecosystem;
       (vi) a description of the outcome-based metrics, 
     benchmarks, and milestones that the consortium will track and 
     the evaluation methods the consortium will use while 
     designated as a manufacturing community to gauge performance 
     of the strategy of the consortium to improve the 
     manufacturing in the region of the consortium; and
       (vii) such other matters as the Secretary considers 
     appropriate.
       (6) Evaluation of applications.--The Secretary shall 
     evaluate each application received under paragraph (5) to 
     determine--
       (A) whether the applicant demonstrates a significant level 
     of regional cooperation in their proposal; and
       (B) how the manufacturing concentration of the applicant 
     competitively ranks nationally according to measures 
     described in paragraph (5)(B)(ii).
       (7) Certain communities previously recognized.--Each 
     consortium that was designated as a manufacturing community 
     by the Secretary in carrying out the Investing in 
     Manufacturing Communities Partnership initiative of the 
     Department of Commerce before the date of the enactment of 
     this Act shall be deemed a manufacturing community designated 
     under this subsection if such consortium is still designated 
     as a manufacturing community by the Secretary as part of such 
     initiative.
       (f) Receipt of Transferred Funds.--The Secretary may accept 
     amounts transferred to the Secretary from the head of another 
     participating agency to carry out this section.

    TITLE VI--INNOVATION, COMMERCIALIZATION, AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER

     SEC. 601. INNOVATION CORPS.

       (a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
       (1) The National Science Foundation Innovation Corps 
     (referred to in this section as the ``I-Corps'') was 
     established to foster a national innovation ecosystem by 
     encouraging institutions, scientists, engineers, and 
     entrepreneurs to identify and explore the innovation and 
     commercial potential of National Science Foundation-funded 
     research well beyond the laboratory.
       (2) Through I-Corps, the Foundation invests in 
     entrepreneurship and commercialization education, training, 
     and mentoring that can ultimately lead to the practical 
     deployment of technologies, products, processes, and services 
     that improve the Nation's competitiveness, promote economic 
     growth, and benefit society.
       (3) By building networks of entrepreneurs, educators, 
     mentors, institutions, and collaborations, and supporting 
     specialized education and training, I-Corps is at the leading 
     edge of a strong, lasting foundation for an American 
     innovation ecosystem.
       (4) By translating federally funded research to a 
     commercial stage more quickly and efficiently, programs like 
     the I-Corps create new jobs and companies, help solve 
     societal problems, and provide taxpayers with a greater 
     return on their investment in research.
       (5) The I-Corps program model has a strong record of 
     success that should be replicated at all Federal science 
     agencies.
       (b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
       (1) commercialization of federally-funded research can 
     improve the Nation's competitiveness, grow the economy, and 
     benefit society;
       (2) I-Corps is a useful tool in promoting the 
     commercialization of federally-funded research by training 
     researchers funded by the Foundation in entrepreneurship and 
     commercialization;
       (3) I-Corps should continue to build a network of 
     entrepreneurs, educators, mentors, and institutions and 
     support specialized education and training; and
       (4) researchers other than those funded by the Foundation 
     may also benefit from the education and training described in 
     paragraph (3).
       (c) I-Corps Program.--
       (1) In general.--In order to promote a strong, lasting 
     foundation for the national innovation ecosystem and increase 
     the positive economic and social impact of federally-funded 
     research, the Director of the Foundation shall set forth 
     eligibility requirements and carry out a program to award 
     grants for entrepreneurship and commercialization education, 
     training, and mentoring.
       (2) Expansion of i-corps.--
       (A) In general.--The Director--
       (i) shall encourage the development and expansion of I-
     Corps and other training programs that focus on professional 
     development, including education in entrepreneurship and 
     commercialization; and
       (ii) may establish an agreement with another Federal 
     science agency--

       (I) to make researchers, students, and institutions funded 
     by that agency eligible to participate in the I-Corps 
     program; or
       (II) to assist that agency with the design and 
     implementation of its own program that is similar to the I-
     Corps program.

       (B) Partnership funding.--In negotiating an agreement with 
     another Federal science agency under subparagraph (A)(ii), 
     the Director shall require that Federal science agency to 
     provide funding for--
       (i) the training for researchers, students, and 
     institutions selected for the I-Corps program; and
       (ii) the locations that Federal science agency designates 
     as regional and national infrastructure for science and 
     engineering entrepreneurship.
       (3) Follow-on commercialization grants.--
       (A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), the Director, 
     in consultation with the Director of the Small Business 
     Innovation Research Program, shall make funds available for 
     competitive grants, including to I-Corps participants, to 
     help support--
       (i) prototype or proof-of-concept development; and
       (ii) such activities as the Director considers necessary to 
     build local, regional, and national infrastructure for 
     science and engineering entrepreneurship.
       (B) Limitation.--Grants under subparagraph (A) shall be 
     limited to participants with innovations that because of the 
     early stage of development are not eligible to participate in 
     a Small Business Innovation Research Program or a Small 
     Business Technology Transfer Program.
       (4) State and local partnerships.--The Director may engage 
     in partnerships with State and local governments, economic 
     development organizations, and nonprofit organizations to 
     provide access to the I-Corps program to support 
     entrepreneurship and commercialization education and training 
     for researchers, students, and institutions under this 
     subsection.
       (5) Reports.--The Director shall submit to the appropriate 
     committees of Congress a biennial report on I-Corps program 
     efficacy, including metrics on the effectiveness of the 
     program. Each Federal science agency participating in the I-
     Corps program or that implements a similar program under 
     paragraph (2)(A) shall contribute to the report.
       (6) Definitions.--In this subsection, the terms ``Small 
     Business Innovation Research Program'' and ``Small Business 
     Technology Transfer Program'' have the meanings given those 
     terms in section 9 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 638).

     SEC. 602. TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH GRANTS.

       (a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
       (1) commercialization of federally-funded research may 
     benefit society and the economy; and
       (2) not-for-profit organizations support the 
     commercialization of federally-funded research by providing 
     useful business and technical expertise to researchers.
       (b) Commercialization Grants Program.--The Director of the 
     Foundation shall continue to award grants on a competitive, 
     merit-reviewed basis to eligible entities to promote the 
     commercialization of federally-funded research results.
       (c) Use of Funds.--Activities supported by grants under 
     this section may include--
       (1) identifying Foundation-sponsored research and 
     technologies that have the potential for accelerated 
     commercialization;
       (2) supporting prior or current Foundation-sponsored 
     investigators in undertaking proof-of-concept work, including 
     development of prototypes of technologies that are derived 
     from Foundation-sponsored research and have potential market 
     value;
       (3) promoting sustainable partnerships between Foundation-
     funded institutions, industry, and other organizations within 
     academia and the private sector with the purpose of 
     accelerating the transfer of technology;
       (4) developing multi-disciplinary innovation ecosystems 
     which involve and are responsive to specific needs of 
     academia and industry;
       (5) funding the establishment of proof-of-concept and 
     prototype development in partnership with academia to advance 
     technologies; and
       (6) providing professional development, mentoring, and 
     advice in entrepreneurship, project management, and 
     technology and business development to innovators.
       (d) Eligibility.--
       (1) In general.--The following organizations may be 
     eligible for grants under this section:
       (A) Institutions of higher education.
       (B) Public or nonprofit technology transfer organizations.
       (C) A nonprofit organization that partners with an 
     institution of higher education.
       (D) A consortia of 2 or more of the organizations described 
     under subparagraphs (A) through (C).
       (2) Lead organizations.--Any eligible organization under 
     paragraph (1) may apply as a lead organization.
       (e) Applications.--An eligible entity seeking a grant under 
     this section shall submit an application to the Director at 
     such time, in such manner, and containing such information as 
     the Director may require.

     SEC. 603. OPTICS AND PHOTONICS TECHNOLOGY INNOVATIONS.

       (a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
       (1) The 1998 National Research Council Report, ``Harnessing 
     Light'' presented a comprehensive overview on the importance 
     of optics and photonics to various sectors of the United 
     States economy.
       (2) In 2012, in response to increased coordination and 
     investment by other nations, the National Research Council 
     released a follow up study recommending a national photonics 
     initiative to increase collaboration and coordination among 
     United States industry, Federal and State government, and 
     academia to identify and further advance areas of photonics 
     critical to regaining United States competitiveness and 
     maintaining national security.
       (3) Publicly-traded companies focused on optics and 
     photonics in the United States enable more than $3 trillion 
     in revenue annually.
       (b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
       (1) optics and photonics research and technologies promote 
     United States global competitiveness in industry sectors, 
     including telecommunications and information technology, 
     energy, healthcare and medicine, manufacturing, and defense;

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       (2) Federal science agencies, industry, and academia should 
     seek partnerships with each other to develop basic research 
     in optics and photonics into more mature technologies and 
     capabilities; and
       (3) each Federal science agency, as appropriate, should--
       (A) survey and identify optics and photonics-related 
     programs within that Federal science agency and share results 
     with other Federal science agencies for the purpose of 
     generating multiple applications and uses;
       (B) partner with the private sector and academia to 
     leverage knowledge and resources to maximize opportunities 
     for innovation in optics and photonics;
       (C) explore research and development opportunities, 
     including Federal and private sector-sponsored internships, 
     to ensure a highly trained optics and photonics workforce in 
     the United States;
       (D) encourage partnerships between academia and industry to 
     promote improvement in the education of optics and photonics 
     technicians at the secondary school level, undergraduate 
     level, and 2-year college level, including through the 
     Foundation's Advanced Technological Education program; and
       (E) assess existing programs and explore alternatives to 
     modernize photonics laboratory equipment in undergraduate 
     institutions in the United States to facilitate critical 
     hands-on learning.

     SEC. 604. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE REGIONAL 
                   INNOVATION PROGRAM.

       Section 27(g)(2) of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology 
     Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3722(g)(2)) is amended to 
     read as follows:
       ``(2) Authorization levels.--From amounts appropriated for 
     economic development assistance programs, the Secretary may 
     use $30,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2017 and 2018 
     for grants under this section.''.

  Mr. PORTMAN. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the 
committee-reported substitute amendment be withdrawn, the Gardner 
substitute amendment be agreed to, the bill, as amended, be considered 
read a third time and passed, and the motion to reconsider be 
considered made and laid upon the table.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.
  The committee-reported amendment in the nature of a substitute was 
withdrawn.
  The amendment (No. 5186) in the nature of a substitute was agreed to.
  (The amendment is printed in today's Record under ``Text of 
Amendments.'')
  The bill (S. 3084), as amended, was ordered to be engrossed for a 
third reading, was read the third time, and passed.

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