March 13, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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APS Applauds Senate Passage of FY09 Omnibus Bill

Funding will ensure that scientists continue transformational research, leading to innovation, job creation and economic prosperity for the nation

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American Physical Society (APS) is elated that the Senate has approved the FYO9 Omnibus Bill, which will allow scientists to continue cutting-edge research that will lead to innovation, job creation and economic growth for the United States.

Specifically, APS lauds the bill’s support of research programs at the Department of Energy’s Office of Science, the National Science Foundation and the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Scientists, who receive funding from these agencies, can now further their research on developing solutions to some of the country’s most pressing challenges – developing clean, affordable energy, improving health care and strengthening science and math instruction in our schools.

"At a time when the nation is coping with a deep recession and striving for an economic recovery, federal investments in science and technology are more critical to America’s future than ever,” said Michael S. Lubell, APS director of public affairs. “Crises provide opportunities for creative outcomes. It is gratifying to see science high on Congress’ priority list."

APS applauds the leadership of Congress and President Obama on the importance of funding science, the seed corn of new discoveries, job growth and economic prosperity for the nation. As policymakers seek solutions to the nation’s many challenges, funding in the FY09 Omnibus Bill, as well as predictable, sustainable increases in the future, will ensure that they can count on scientists to lead in developing those solutions.