Congressional Visits Day 2011
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This free event took place April 6 and 7 in Washington, D.C. Five OSA members joined more than 300 of their colleagues from other scientific societies for an extensive briefing by Congressional, Administration, and AAAS staff on the federal budget. Sherwood Boehlert, a former member of Congress, spoke to the attendees about the current climate on Capitol Hill. Boehlert served as chair of the House Science and Technology Committee.
A reception and exhibits were held on Capitol Hill for members of Congress, congressional staff, and all CVD attendees. Luna Innovations and Schott Glass were on hand to showcase their technology to attendees.
On April 7, the five OSA members spent the day on Capitol Hill visiting more than 16 congressional offices from Florida, Oregon, Missouri, New York, and Maryland.
Why Participate in OSA Public Policy Programs?
- The US Congress shapes policy that directly affects scientists, including you in the optics and photonics community.
- America's leaders not only determine government funding levels for research, but they also define what kind of research receives support.
- Lawmakers also determine government support and programs for students including fellowship opportunities and programs at the K-12 level.
- It is important that members of Congress hear directly from their constituents about the importance of these programs to their district, state, and the nation.
- Events like this are a great way for scientist-constituents to advocate directly for issues like increased support and increased funding for:
- Department of Defense research
- NSF
- NIST
- DOE Office of Science
