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27 April 2017
OSA Members Visit Capitol Hill to Encourage Continued Investment in Scientific Research
27 April 2017
30 Members of The Optical Society Visit Capitol Hill to Encourage Continued Investment in Scientific Research, Engineering and Technology
WASHINGTON – Members of The Optical Society (OSA) joined colleagues from the National Photonics Initiative (NPI) in taking part in meetings with over 70 Congressional and Senate offices encouraging both Republican and Democratic lawmakers to oppose proposed cuts to science funding. The meetings were part of the Science-Engineering-Technology Working Group Congressional Visits Day, which saw hundreds of scientists, engineers and graduate students meet with elected officials and their staffs to discuss science policy and federal investments in research and development.
“Advances in optics and photonics play a critical role in the development of technologies that we depend on, from producing a faster internet to creating tools that detect and help cure illnesses, as well as improving functionality while decreasing costs in manufacturing and offering smart solutions to upgrading US infrastructure,“ said Elizabeth Rogan, CEO of The Optical Society. “Continued investment in scientific research and development is crucial to keeping the U.S. competitive in the global marketplace and events like Congressional Visits Day provide members an opportunity to share their stories directly with their Representatives and Senators.”
Dr. Matt Weed, Director of R&D, Luminar and Chair, Public Policy Committee of The Optical Society added, “At a time when it’s easy to become disillusioned with government, our community has rallied with increased energy because we know our message of progress is important.”
The meetings with lawmakers and staff included expressing the strong opposition to proposed funding cuts for agencies like the National Institute of Health, the National Science Foundation, the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the Department of Defense’s Science and Technology program. In addition, members advocated for the reauthorization of the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act and outlined the critical role optics and photonics play in creating a safe public infrastructure. Members also shared personal anecdotes, current research projects, and drew attention to the relationship between federal R&D funding and job creation at their local institutions.
About The Optical Society
Founded in 1916, The Optical Society (OSA) is the leading professional organization for scientists, engineers, students and business leaders who fuel discoveries, shape real-life applications and accelerate achievements in the science of light. Through world-renowned publications, meetings and membership initiatives, OSA provides quality research, inspired interactions and dedicated resources for its extensive global network of optics and photonics experts. For more information, visit www.osa.org.
About Congressional Visits Day
Congressional Visits Day (CVD) is a two-day annual event that brings scientists, engineers, researchers, educators, and technology executives to Washington to raise visibility and support for science, engineering, and technology. Uniquely multi-sector and multi-disciplinary, the CVD is coordinated by coalitions of companies, professional societies and educational institutions and it is open to all who believe that science and technology comprise the cornerstone of our Nation's future.
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