Number: 95-30
Title: The National Institute of Standards and Technology: An Appropriations Overview
Authors: Wendy H. Schacht, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has a mandate to increase the competitiveness of U.S. firms and provide the measurement, calibration, and quality assurance techniques that underpin U.S. commerce. Congressional debate has focused on the merits of NIST's external R&D programs directed toward increased private sector commercialization, including the now terminated Advanced Technology Program (ATP) and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP). The level of funding for internal research efforts has also been scrutinized by Congress. P.L. 110- 161, the FY2008 Consolidated Appropriations Act, funds NIST at $755.8 million. The law also finances a new initiative, the Technology Innovation Program, to replace ATP. The President's FY2009 budget proposal (as amended) requests $636 million for NIST. H.R. - (unnumbered), as ordered reported from the House Committee on Appropriations, would provide $816.9 million for NIST while S. 3182, as reported from the Senate Committee on Appropriations, would fund the laboratory at $813.5 million.
Pages: 6
Date: August 20, 2008