Download PDF
May 20, 2011

Congressional Nanotechnology Caucus Seeks Members

Lynn L. Bergeson

In a May 2011 letter, Representatives Ralph M. Hall (R-TX) and Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) ask Congressional members to join the bipartisan and bicameral Congressional Nanotechnology Caucus. The Caucus was formed over ten years ago and is intended to inform legislators about nanotechnology issues, including the effect of nanotechnology on job creation and other economic benefits to the U.S. The National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI), which was codified by Congress in 2003, coordinates the federal nanotechnology research and development of 25 federal agencies. Since enactment, the House has passed bills in the 110th (H.R. 5940) and 111th (H.R. 554 and H.R. 5116) Congresses to amend and reauthorize the NNI, but the Senate did not act in either Congress. Since fiscal year 2008, the NNI has received funding through annual appropriations bills. Nanotechnology stakeholders are urged to use this template letter to let their representatives and senators know of the importance of nanotechnology issues to their constituents and urge them to participate in the Caucus.