Strengthening U.S. Leadership in Plant Science
The NSF Plant Biology Act (H.R.7949), introduced by Rep. Josh Riley (D-NY-19) and Rep. Jim Baird (R-IN-4), is bipartisan legislation to strengthen the National Science Foundation’s investments in plant and microbial research. The bill would amend the NSF Authorization Act of 2002 to establish a dedicated funding initiative supporting fundamental and applied plant science, with applications in agriculture, food systems, and biotechnology. It also aims to enhance coordination and ensure the United States remains a global leader in innovation, food security, and environmental resilience.
ASPB members are essential voices in advancing plant science and informing federal policy. We urge you to contact your Members of Congress and ask them to support and co-sponsor the NSF BIO Plant Biology Act.
You can take action by:
- Contact your Representative and Senators to express support for H.R. 7949 and encourage them to join as co-sponsors.
- Explaining the importance of plant science research in addressing national priorities, including crop resilience, sustainable agriculture, climate adaptation, and biotechnology innovation.
- Sharing your personal story and expertise to demonstrate how NSF investments support your research, students, and institution.
Find Your Representative here.
Congressional offices rely heavily on input from constituents, especially scientists and researchers. Your outreach can help build momentum for this bipartisan effort and ensure continued federal investment in plant biology research.
Take a few minutes today to make your voice heard and support the future of plant science.
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