Public Policy
OSA works to promote optics and photonics to a variety of audiences. One way to ensure this outreach is for OSA members to visit with their elected officials, inform governments about optics and photonics by providing technical expertise, and reach out to decision makers so they understand why science - and optics in particular - is an integral part of society. OSA's public policy programs are designed to facilitate this interaction. OSA encourages its members to get involved in and stay informed of science policy through the programs outlined below.
Science Policy Issues at Stake
OSA members are directly affected by a number of science policy decisions made by lawmakers and Administration officials. Read about the issues OSA tracks, such as funding for R&D and alternative energy technologies, export controls and small business legislation.
Stay Up to Date
OSA works to keep its members informed of what is going on in science policy in Washington, D.C. Three easy ways OSA members can stay up to date are:
Optics & Photonics Grants
An insider's look at the field's most noteworthy funding opportunities in easy-to-read summaries.
Washington Updates
Regularly updated news briefs tracking important science policy issues that affect optics and photonics professionals.
Optics Legislative Network (OLN)
OSA's grassroots e-mail list designed for members who are interested in staying on top of science policy issues. Sent no more than six times per year, alerts inform OLN members of upcoming Hill visit opportunities, when to contact their legislators about important issues and recaps of science policy happenings in Washington, D.C. Sign up today.
Get Involved
In the policy world, decision makers rely on outside experts to keep them informed on important issues. As a constituent and a professional in the science community you have the power to inform your government about the importance of optics and photonics, especially as it relates to science policy decisions. OSA members who want to get involved in science policy can:
OSA Programs & Events
OSA hosts a variety of outreach programs designed to inform policymakers about the importance of optics and photonics. Following is a sampling of events and programs:
Contact Us
If you have any questions about science policy at OSA, please e-mail public-policy@osa.org or contact a member of the OSA government relations team directly:
Laura Kolton
Director, Government Relations
202.416.1499
lkolto@osa.org
