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Write to Congress
Legislative Call to Action: January 16, 2009
With the 111th Congress in session, a newly elected President in office, and the unveiling of the House Democrats $825 billion Stimulus Plan that includes $16 billion for science and technology-related programs, SOT’s leadership is urging SOT members to write to their Member of Congress and urge them to increase the level of funding for scientific research. We would specifically like Congress to consider designating $11.1 billion in research for the following agencies:
$8.6 billion—National Institutes of Health (NIH)
$1.4 billion—National Science Foundation (NSF)
$1.0 billion—Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
$97 million—Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)
SOT members should also encourage their representatives in Congress to remind President Obama of his earlier commitment to protecting the environment. Back in October when he was campaigning for President, he said he was, "committed to pursuing greater funding for the EPA so that its responsibilities are carried out." He went on to say, "Clean water, land and air, and ensuring the health and safety of our citizens, especially children, will be high priorities in an Obama Administration." He went on to point out that, "environmental science, research, and education have been damaged by politics and ideology."
Funding for science and technology represent a relatively small part of the current proposal, yet it will make a vital contribution to America's future. An investment in scientific discovery is an important means of improving the nation's health, environment and the economy.
Useful Tools:
Visit the Roll Call Web site and put in your zip code to locate your Representative and Senators.
Writing
an Effective Letter to Congress 
Sample Letter for SOT Member: Stimulus Plan (word doc)
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