The National Institute of Standards and
July 1, 2021September 26, 2022
Technology: An Appropriations Overview
John F. Sargent Jr.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), a laboratory of the Department of
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), a laboratory of the Department of
Specialist in Science and
Specialist in Science and
Commerce, is mandated to provide technical services to facilitate the competitiveness of U.S.
Commerce, is mandated to provide technical services to facilitate the competitiveness of U.S.
Technology Policy
Technology Policy
industry. NIST is directed to offer support to the private sector for the development of
industry. NIST is directed to offer support to the private sector for the development of
precompetitive generic technologies and the diffusion of government-developed innovation to
precompetitive generic technologies and the diffusion of government-developed innovation to
users in all users in all
segmentssectors of the American economy. of the American economy.
LaboratoryNIST research is research is
intended to provide measurement, to provide measurement,
calibration, and quality assurance techniques
calibration, and quality assurance techniques
that underpinto support U.S. commerce, technological U.S. commerce, technological
progress, progress,
improved product reliability, manufacturing processes, and public safety.
Funding for NIST extramural programs directed toward increased private sector commercialization has been a topic of congressional debate. Some Members of Congress have expressed skepticism over a “technology policy” based on providing federal funds to industry for development of precompetitive generic technologies. This approach, coupled with pressures to balance the federal budget, led to significant reductions in funding for NIST. The Advanced Technology Program (ATP) and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), which accounted for over 50% of the FY1995 NIST budget, were subsequently proposed for elimination. In 2007, ATP was terminated and replaced by the Technology Innovation Program (TIP). TIP was subsequently defunded in the FY2012 appropriations legislation. President Trump proposed the elimination of federal funding for the MEP program in fiscal years 2018 to 2021. The FY2023 request includes a 74.2% increase for MEP.
improved product reliability, manufacturing processes, and public safety.
Concerns about the adequacy of federal funding for physical science and engineering research led to efforts by successive Concerns about the adequacy of federal funding for physical science and engineering research led to efforts by successive
Presidents and Congresses to double funding for the NIST laboratory and construction accounts, together with the National Presidents and Congresses to double funding for the NIST laboratory and construction accounts, together with the National
Science Foundation and the Department of Energy Office of Science. President Science Foundation and the Department of Energy Office of Science. President
George W. Bush’s proposal was to do so over 10 years; Bush’s proposal was to do so over 10 years;
the America COMPETES Act (P.L. 110-69) set authorization levels consistent with a seven-year doubling and the America the America COMPETES Act (P.L. 110-69) set authorization levels consistent with a seven-year doubling and the America
COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 set authorization levels consistent with an 11-year doubling. However, COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 set authorization levels consistent with an 11-year doubling. However,
appropriations did not keep pace with authorization levels or presidential requests. In addition, the authorization levels for the appropriations did not keep pace with authorization levels or presidential requests. In addition, the authorization levels for the
accounts targeted for doubling lapsed at the end of FY2013. Appropriations for the targeted NIST accounts increased by accounts targeted for doubling lapsed at the end of FY2013. Appropriations for the targeted NIST accounts increased by
42.3% (a 3.6% compound annual growth rate) from FY2006 to FY2016.42.3% (a 3.6% compound annual growth rate) from FY2006 to FY2016.
Funding for NIST extramural programs directed toward increased private sector commercialization has been a topic of congressional debate. Some Members of Congress have expressed skepticism over a “technology policy” based on providing federal funds to industry for development of precompetitive generic technologies. This approach, coupled with pressures to balance the federal budget, led to significant reductions in funding for NIST. The Advanced Technology Program (ATP) and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), which accounted for over 50% of the FY1995 NIST budget, were subsequently proposed for elimination. In 2007, ATP was terminated and replaced by the Technology Innovation Program (TIP). TIP was subsequently defunded in the FY2012 appropriations legislation. President Trump proposed the elimination of federal funding for the MEP program in fiscal years 2018 to 2021.
In December 2014, Congress enacted the Revitalize American Manufacturing and Innovation Act of 2014 (Title VII of Division B of P.L. 113-235), establishing a Network for Manufacturing Innovation (also referred to as Manufacturing USA). The explanatory statement accompanying the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016 (P.L. 114-113) directed NIST to use an open competition to select the technological focus areas of industry-driven manufacturing institutes. Upon completion of its first competition, NIST announced its selection of the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL). In total, 16 NNMI institutes have been sponsored by the Department of Defense (DOD, nine institutes), Department of Energy (six institutes), and Department of Commerce (one institute).
For FY2021, Congress provided $1,034.5 million for NIST, including $788 The CHIPS and Science Act (P.L. 117-167) authorized NIST appropriations for FY2023-FY2027, authorizing an increase in overall agency funding to $2.283 billion from its $1.230 billion level in FY2022. The authorized growth is primarily a result of increases in NIST’s Industrial Technology Services (ITS) account—including increases of $392 million (248.1%) for the Manufacturing Extension Program and $233.5 million (1415.2%) for the Manufacturing USA program—and its laboratories (up $433.4 million, 41.0%).
In December 2014, Congress enacted the Revitalize American Manufacturing and Innovation Act of 2014 (Title VII of Division B of P.L. 113-235), establishing a Network for Manufacturing Innovation (also referred to as Manufacturing USA). In total, 16 Manufacturing USA institutes have been sponsored by the Department of Defense (DOD, nine institutes), Department of Energy (six institutes), and Department of Commerce (one institute).
The CHIPS Act of 2022, Division A of P.L. 117-167, builds on the CHIPS for America provisions in the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (P.L. 116-283), providing funding to the Commerce Department (being executed by NIST) for a variety of efforts to increase semiconductor fabrication capacity in the United States and to ensure future U.S. leadership in semiconductor technology. The funding includes cash and tax incentives for establishing and equipping semiconductor fabrication facilities in the United States; research and development funding for NIST; and funding for the establishment of a National Semiconductor Technology Center, a National Advanced Packaging Manufacturing Program, and up to three semiconductor-focused Manufacturing USA institutes.
For FY2022, Congress provided $1.230 billion for NIST, including $850.0 million for the Scientific and Technical .0 million for the Scientific and Technical
Research and Services (STRS) account, $Research and Services (STRS) account, $
166174.5 million for the .5 million for the
Industrial Technology Services (ITS)ITS account, and $ account, and $
80.0 205.6 million for the Construction of Research Facilities (CRF) account. Within the ITS account, Congress provided $million for the Construction of Research Facilities (CRF) account. Within the ITS account, Congress provided $
150158.0 million .0 million
(up $8 million, 5.3%) for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program and $16.5 million for Manufacturing USAfor the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program and $16.5 million for Manufacturing USA
, including ongoing support for NIST’s first institute, NIIMBL, and support for coordination of the Manufacturing USA network (up $5 million, 43.5%). .
The President is requesting $1
The President is requesting $1
,497.2 million.468 billion for NIST in for NIST in
FY2022FY2023, an increase of $, an increase of $
462.7237.5 million ( million (
44.719.3%) from the %) from the
FY2021 enacted level. Included in the FY2022 request is $915.6 million for the STRS account, an increase of $127.6 million (16.2%); $441.6 million for the ITS account, up $275.1 million (165.2%); and $140.0 million for the NIST CRF account, up $60 million (75.0%). Within the ITS account, the request would provide $275.0 million for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program in FY2022, an increase $125.0 million (83.3%) from the FY2021 enacted level. The FY2022 ITS request includes $166.6 million for Manufacturing USA, an increase of $150.1 million (909.7%). Of these funds, $5.0 million is requested for coordination of the network of manufacturing institutes; $1.7 million is requested for grants to develop industrial technology roadmaps; $10.0 million is requested for support of the current NIST Manufacturing USA institute, NIIMBL; and $150.0 million is requested for the award and funding of two additional Manufacturing USA institutesFY2022 enacted level, including $975 million for STRS (up $125 million, 14.7%), $372.3 million for ITS (up $197.8 million, 113.4%), and 120.3 million for CRF (down $40.3, 50.4%). Within the ITS account, the request seeks$275.3 million (up $117.3 million, 74.2%) for the MEP program and $97.0 million (up $80.5 million, 487.9%) for Manufacturing USA. .
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1721 The National Institute of Standards and Technology: An Appropriations Overview
Contents
Mission ............................................................................................................................................ 1
History and Selected Statutory Authorities ..................................................................................... 1
Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Improvement Act of 1987 ................................................ 2
Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988 .................................................................... 2
Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program ................................................... 2
Advanced Technology Program .......................................................................................... 2
America COMPETES Act/America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 ...................... 3
Technology Innovation Program ......................................................................................... 3
NIST Doubling Effort ......................................................................................................... 3
Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 ............................................................ 3
The Revitalize American Manufacturing and Innovation Act of 2014 and Subsequent
Amendments: Manufacturing USA........................................................................................ 4
Previous NIST Programs ........................................................................................................... 5
Advanced Manufacturing Technology Consortia Program ................................................. 5
Manufacturing Technology Acceleration Centers Program ................................................ 5
NIST AppropriationsAuthorizations and Appropriations in the CHIPS and Science Act ....................................................................................................................... 6 6
Semiconductor-Related Authorizations and Appropriations ..................................................... 6
Selected NIST-Related Provisions of the 2021 NDAA and CHIPS Act of 2022 ................ 6 CHIPS Act of 2022 Appropriations .................................................................................... 8
National Institute of Standards and Technology for the Future .............................................. 10
Authorization of Appropriations for FY2023-FY2027 ..................................................... 10 Other NIST Authorizations ................................................................................................ 11
NIST Appropriations ..................................................................................................................... 14
Overview of NIST Appropriations Accounts ............................................................................ 6 14
NIST Request for FY2022FY2023 Appropriations ............................................................................... 6 14
Total NIST Funding Requested for FY2022FY2023 ....................................................................... 6 15
Scientific and Technical Research and Services ................................................................. 6 15
Industrial Technology Services ........................................................................................... 7 15
Construction of Research Facilities .................................................................................... 7 15
Funding Trends for NIST Accounts and Selected Programs ..................................................... 7 17
Total NIST Funding ............................................................................................................ 8 17
Scientific and Technical Research and Services Account ................................................... 8 17
Construction of Research Facilities Account ...................................................................... 9 18
Industrial Technology Services Account ............................................................................ 11 20
Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program ................................................................. 11 20
Advanced Technology Program/Technology Innovation Program ................................... 1221
Concluding Observations .............................................................................................................. 14
23
CHIPS and Related Semiconductor Programs ........................................................................ 23 NIST Doubling Effort ............................................................................................................. 1424
NIST Technology Policy ......................................................................................................... 1525
Manufacturing USA ................................................................................................................ 1525
Figures
Figure 1. Total NIST Appropriations ............................................................................................... 8
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Figure 2. Scientific and Technical Research and Services Account ................................................ 9 18
Figure 3. Construction of Research Facilities Account ................................................................. 1019
Figure 4. Construction of Research Facilities Account, Excluding Funding for
Congressionally Directed Projects and the Competitive Construction Grant Program .............. 1019
Figure 5. Industrial Technology Services Account ......................................................................... 11 20
Figure 6. Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program ............................................................. 1221
Figure 7. Advanced Technology Program and Technology Innovation Program .......................... 13
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Tables
Table 1. NIST Appropriations .................................22
Tables Table 1. Appropriations for CHIPS for America Provisions ........................................................... 9 Table 2. FY2022 Appropriation and FY2023-2027 Authorization of Appropriations .................. 10 Table 3. NIST Authorizations and Appropriations ........................................................................ 716
Table A-1. Requested and Enacted Appropriations for NIST Accounts ........................................ 1828
Table B-1. Requested and Enacted Appropriations for Selected NIST Programs ......................... 2030
Appendixes
Appendix A. Requested and Enacted Discretionary Appropriations for NIST Accounts ............. 1828
Appendix B. Requested and Enacted Appropriations for Selected NIST Programs ..................... 2030
Contacts
Author Information ........................................................................................................................ 2131
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The National Institute of Standards and Technology: An Appropriations Overview
Mission
The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) National Institute of Standards and Technology The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) National Institute of Standards and Technology
(NIST) is the “lead national laboratory for providing the measurements, calibrations, and quality (NIST) is the “lead national laboratory for providing the measurements, calibrations, and quality
assurance techniques which underpin United States commerce, technological progress, improved assurance techniques which underpin United States commerce, technological progress, improved
product reliability and manufacturing processes, and public safety.”1 product reliability and manufacturing processes, and public safety.”1
By statute, NIST is “to assist private sector initiatives to capitalize on advanced technology; to
By statute, NIST is “to assist private sector initiatives to capitalize on advanced technology; to
advance, through cooperative efforts among industries, universities, and government laboratories, advance, through cooperative efforts among industries, universities, and government laboratories,
promising research and development projects, which can be optimized by the private sector for promising research and development projects, which can be optimized by the private sector for
commercial and industrial applications; and to promote shared risks, accelerated development, commercial and industrial applications; and to promote shared risks, accelerated development,
and pooling of skills which will be necessary to strengthen America’s manufacturing industries.”2 and pooling of skills which will be necessary to strengthen America’s manufacturing industries.”2
NIST conducts leading-edge research in its seven research laboratories located in facilities in
NIST conducts leading-edge research in its seven research laboratories located in facilities in
Gaithersburg, MD, and Boulder, CO.3 NIST employs approximately 3,000 scientists, engineers, Gaithersburg, MD, and Boulder, CO.3 NIST employs approximately 3,000 scientists, engineers,
technicians, and support personnel, and hosts about 3,500 guest researchers and associates from technicians, and support personnel, and hosts about 3,500 guest researchers and associates from
academia, industry, and other government agencies, who collaborate with NIST staff and access academia, industry, and other government agencies, who collaborate with NIST staff and access
user facilities. Research is focused on measurement, standards, test methods, and basic user facilities. Research is focused on measurement, standards, test methods, and basic
“infrastructural technologies” that enable development of advanced technologies. Infrastructural “infrastructural technologies” that enable development of advanced technologies. Infrastructural
technologies assist industry in characterizing new materials, monitoring production processes, technologies assist industry in characterizing new materials, monitoring production processes,
and ensuring the quality of new product lines. Cooperative research with industry to overcome and ensuring the quality of new product lines. Cooperative research with industry to overcome
technical barriers to commercialization of emerging technologies is a major component of NIST’s technical barriers to commercialization of emerging technologies is a major component of NIST’s
work. work.
In addition, NIST manages extramural programs such as the Hollings Manufacturing Extension
In addition, NIST manages extramural programs such as the Hollings Manufacturing Extension
Partnership (MEP) program and Manufacturing USA. Several other extramural programs Partnership (MEP) program and Manufacturing USA. Several other extramural programs
previously conducted by NIST have been eliminated or integrated into other NIST activities. previously conducted by NIST have been eliminated or integrated into other NIST activities.
These programs are discussed in the next These programs are discussed in the next
sectiontwo sections. .
History and Selected Statutory Authorities
Unlike most federal laboratories, NIST has a mission specified by statute (15 U.S.C. 271-282a), Unlike most federal laboratories, NIST has a mission specified by statute (15 U.S.C. 271-282a),
has a separate authorization and appropriation, and is headed by a Senate-confirmed presidential has a separate authorization and appropriation, and is headed by a Senate-confirmed presidential
appointee (the Under Secretary of Commerce for Technology and Standards). NIST was appointee (the Under Secretary of Commerce for Technology and Standards). NIST was
originally created by the NBS Organic Act of 1901 (P.L. 56-177) as the National Bureau of originally created by the NBS Organic Act of 1901 (P.L. 56-177) as the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS), at a time when the first centralized industrial labs were being established.4 Standards (NBS), at a time when the first centralized industrial labs were being established.4
Under the act, NBS was charged with working on “the solution of problems which arise in
Under the act, NBS was charged with working on “the solution of problems which arise in
connection with standards” and to engage in the “determination of physical constants and the connection with standards” and to engage in the “determination of physical constants and the
properties of materials, when such data are of great importance to scientific or manufacturing properties of materials, when such data are of great importance to scientific or manufacturing
interests and are not to be obtained of sufficient accuracy elsewhere.” These objectives remain interests and are not to be obtained of sufficient accuracy elsewhere.” These objectives remain
central to NIST’s laboratory work today. central to NIST’s laboratory work today.
1 §5111, Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988 (P.L. 100-418). 1 §5111, Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988 (P.L. 100-418).
2 Ibid. 2 Ibid.
3 The seven laboratories are the Materials Measurement Laboratory, Physical Measurement Laboratory, Engineering 3 The seven laboratories are the Materials Measurement Laboratory, Physical Measurement Laboratory, Engineering
Laboratory, Information Technology Laboratory, Communications Technology Laboratory, Center for Nanoscale Laboratory, Information Technology Laboratory, Communications Technology Laboratory, Center for Nanoscale
Science and Technology, and Center for Neutron Research. Science and Technology, and Center for Neutron Research.
4 General Electric Research Laboratory, widely recognized as the first industrial research facility, was established in
4 General Electric Research Laboratory, widely recognized as the first industrial research facility, was established in
1900 in Schenectady, NY. 1900 in Schenectady, NY.
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The National Institute of Standards and Technology: An Appropriations Overview
Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Improvement Act of 1987
In 1987, the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Improvement Act of 1987 (P.L. 100-107) In 1987, the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Improvement Act of 1987 (P.L. 100-107)
established the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program under the management of NBS.5 The established the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program under the management of NBS.5 The
act directs the President or the Secretary of Commerce to “periodically make the award to act directs the President or the Secretary of Commerce to “periodically make the award to
companies and other organizations which in the judgment of the President or the Secretary have companies and other organizations which in the judgment of the President or the Secretary have
substantially benefited the economic or social well-being of the United States through substantially benefited the economic or social well-being of the United States through
improvements in the quality of their goods or services resulting from the effective practice of improvements in the quality of their goods or services resulting from the effective practice of
quality management, and which as a consequence are deserving of special recognition.”6 quality management, and which as a consequence are deserving of special recognition.”6
Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988
The following year, amid widespread concerns about the state of U.S. industrial competitiveness, The following year, amid widespread concerns about the state of U.S. industrial competitiveness,
the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988 (P.L. 100-418) significantly expanded the the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988 (P.L. 100-418) significantly expanded the
role of NIST as the “lead national laboratory for providing the measurements, calibrations, and role of NIST as the “lead national laboratory for providing the measurements, calibrations, and
quality assurance techniques which underpin United States commerce, technological progress, quality assurance techniques which underpin United States commerce, technological progress,
improved product reliability and manufacturing processes, and public safety” by “moderniz[ing] improved product reliability and manufacturing processes, and public safety” by “moderniz[ing]
and restructur[ing] that agency to augment its unique ability to enhance the competitiveness of and restructur[ing] that agency to augment its unique ability to enhance the competitiveness of
American industry.”7 The act also changed the name from NBS to the National Institute of American industry.”7 The act also changed the name from NBS to the National Institute of
Standards and Technology to reflect its expanded mission. In addition to its long-standing work in Standards and Technology to reflect its expanded mission. In addition to its long-standing work in
standards and metrology,8 NIST was directed to offer support to the private sector for the standards and metrology,8 NIST was directed to offer support to the private sector for the
development of precompetitive generic technologies and the diffusion of government-developed development of precompetitive generic technologies and the diffusion of government-developed
innovation to users in all segments of the U.S. economy. Among its provisions, the act established innovation to users in all segments of the U.S. economy. Among its provisions, the act established
the Advanced Technology Program (ATP), and a program now known as the Hollings the Advanced Technology Program (ATP), and a program now known as the Hollings
Manufacturing Extension Partnership program. Manufacturing Extension Partnership program.
Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program
The MEP is a program of regional centers that assist smaller, U.S.-based manufacturing
The MEP is a program of regional centers that assist smaller, U.S.-based manufacturing
companies in identifying and adopting new technologies. Operating under the auspices of NIST, companies in identifying and adopting new technologies. Operating under the auspices of NIST,
centers in all 50 states and Puerto Rico provide technical and managerial assistance to firms. centers in all 50 states and Puerto Rico provide technical and managerial assistance to firms.
Federal funding for the centers is matched by nonfederal sources.9 Federal funding for the centers is matched by nonfederal sources.9
Advanced Technology Program
The Advanced Technology Program was designed “to serve as a focal point for cooperation
The Advanced Technology Program was designed “to serve as a focal point for cooperation
between the public and private sectors in the development of industrial technology,” according to between the public and private sectors in the development of industrial technology,” according to
the report accompanying the bill, and to help solve “problems of concern to large segments of an the report accompanying the bill, and to help solve “problems of concern to large segments of an
industry.” Placed within the National Institute of Standards and Technology in recognition of the industry.” Placed within the National Institute of Standards and Technology in recognition of the
laboratory’s ongoing relationship with industry, ATP provided seed funding to single companies laboratory’s ongoing relationship with industry, ATP provided seed funding to single companies
or to industry-led consortia of universities, businesses, and/or government laboratories for or to industry-led consortia of universities, businesses, and/or government laboratories for
development of generic (broad-based), precompetitive technologies that have many applications development of generic (broad-based), precompetitive technologies that have many applications
across industries. Awards, based on technical and business merit, were for high-risk work past the across industries. Awards, based on technical and business merit, were for high-risk work past the
basic research stage but not yet ready for commercialization. Market potential was an important basic research stage but not yet ready for commercialization. Market potential was an important
5 The program is currently managed under NIST’s Baldrige Performance Excellence Program. 5 The program is currently managed under NIST’s Baldrige Performance Excellence Program.
6 Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Improvement Act of 1987 (P.L. 100-107). 6 Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Improvement Act of 1987 (P.L. 100-107).
7 §5111, P.L. 100-107. 7 §5111, P.L. 100-107.
8 Metrology is the science of measurement. 8 Metrology is the science of measurement.
9 For additional information on the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership program, see CRS Report R44308, 9 For additional information on the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership program, see CRS Report R44308,
The Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program, by John F. Sargent Jr. , by John F. Sargent Jr.
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consideration in project selection. Scientific and technical review generally was performed by
consideration in project selection. Scientific and technical review generally was performed by
federal and academic experts. Business plan assessments were made by individuals from the federal and academic experts. Business plan assessments were made by individuals from the
private sector. private sector.
America COMPETES Act/America COMPETES Reauthorization
Act of 2010
The America COMPETES Act (P.L. 110-69) and the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act The America COMPETES Act (P.L. 110-69) and the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act
of 2010 (P.L. 111-358) authorized NIST appropriations and several programs and activities. of 2010 (P.L. 111-358) authorized NIST appropriations and several programs and activities.
Technology Innovation Program
In 2007, the America COMPETES Act replaced ATP with a new program, the Technology
In 2007, the America COMPETES Act replaced ATP with a new program, the Technology
Innovation Program (TIP). While similar to ATP in the promotion of Innovation Program (TIP). While similar to ATP in the promotion of
research and development (R&D)R&D expected to be of expected to be of
broad-based economic benefit to the nation, TIP appeared to have been structured to avoid what broad-based economic benefit to the nation, TIP appeared to have been structured to avoid what
was seen as government funding of large firms that opponents argued did not necessarily need was seen as government funding of large firms that opponents argued did not necessarily need
federal support for research. The committee report to accompany H.R. 1868, part of which was federal support for research. The committee report to accompany H.R. 1868, part of which was
incorporated into P.L. 110-69, stated that TIP replaced ATP in consideration of a changing global incorporated into P.L. 110-69, stated that TIP replaced ATP in consideration of a changing global
innovation environment focusing on small and medium-sized companies. The design of the innovation environment focusing on small and medium-sized companies. The design of the
program also “acknowledges the important role universities play in the innovation cycle by program also “acknowledges the important role universities play in the innovation cycle by
allowing universities to fully participate in the program.”10 Appropriations for TIP were provided allowing universities to fully participate in the program.”10 Appropriations for TIP were provided
from FY2008 to FY2011; no appropriations have been provided for TIP since FY2011. from FY2008 to FY2011; no appropriations have been provided for TIP since FY2011.
NIST Doubling Effort
The America COMPETES Act authorized appropriations for NIST accounts for FY2008-FY2010,
The America COMPETES Act authorized appropriations for NIST accounts for FY2008-FY2010,
and the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 authorized appropriations for NIST and the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 authorized appropriations for NIST
accounts for FY2011-FY2013. The authorization levels for NIST were part of a larger effort to accounts for FY2011-FY2013. The authorization levels for NIST were part of a larger effort to
double funding for selected accounts—all of the National Science Foundation, the Department of double funding for selected accounts—all of the National Science Foundation, the Department of
Energy Office of Science, and the NIST laboratory and construction accounts—that support Energy Office of Science, and the NIST laboratory and construction accounts—that support
physical sciences and engineering research.11 Congress’s appropriations fell short of the physical sciences and engineering research.11 Congress’s appropriations fell short of the
authorizations in these acts. No presidential budget request has referenced the America authorizations in these acts. No presidential budget request has referenced the America
COMPETES Act doubling goal since FY2017. COMPETES Act doubling goal since FY2017.
Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012
As part of the Public Safety Trust Fund provided for in the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job As part of the Public Safety Trust Fund provided for in the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job
Creation Act of 2012 (P.L. 112-96), a share of Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Creation Act of 2012 (P.L. 112-96), a share of Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
spectrum auction proceeds are to be made available to NIST as part of a Wireless Innovation spectrum auction proceeds are to be made available to NIST as part of a Wireless Innovation
(WIN) Fund to help develop cutting-edge wireless technologies for public safety users. WIN (WIN) Fund to help develop cutting-edge wireless technologies for public safety users. WIN
funds are to be used for developing leading-edge wireless technologies for public safety users, funds are to be used for developing leading-edge wireless technologies for public safety users,
including helping industry and public safety organizations conduct research and develop new including helping industry and public safety organizations conduct research and develop new
standards, technologies, and applications to advance public safety communications in support of standards, technologies, and applications to advance public safety communications in support of
the initiative’s efforts to build an interoperable nationwide broadband network for first the initiative’s efforts to build an interoperable nationwide broadband network for first
responders. According to NIST, responders. According to NIST,
10 For more information on the Technology Innovation Program, see CRS Report RS22815, 10 For more information on the Technology Innovation Program, see CRS Report RS22815,
The Technology Innovation
Program, by Wendy H. Schacht (available to congressional clients upon request to CRS). , by Wendy H. Schacht (available to congressional clients upon request to CRS).
11 For more information on the doubling effort, see CRS Report R41951,
11 For more information on the doubling effort, see CRS Report R41951,
An Analysis of Efforts to Double Federal
Funding for Physical Sciences and Engineering Research, by John F. Sargent Jr. , by John F. Sargent Jr.
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The fund’s availability extends through 2022 and began to execute in FY 2015; $92.7
The fund’s availability extends through 2022 and began to execute in FY 2015; $92.7
million was transferred to NIST in FY 2015, $7.3 million was released from sequester in million was transferred to NIST in FY 2015, $7.3 million was released from sequester in
FY 2016, an additional $186.4 million was transferred in FY 2016, and $13.6 million was FY 2016, an additional $186.4 million was transferred in FY 2016, and $13.6 million was
released from sequester in FY 2017. Currently, WIN has $108.7 million in total resources released from sequester in FY 2017. Currently, WIN has $108.7 million in total resources
with $71.9 million available for obligation in FY 2021 and $36.8 million to be available in with $71.9 million available for obligation in FY 2021 and $36.8 million to be available in
FY 2022. Additional transfers to NIST from NTIA are possible as proceeds from the FY 2022. Additional transfers to NIST from NTIA are possible as proceeds from the
spectrum auctions become available.12 spectrum auctions become available.12
The Revitalize American Manufacturing and Innovation Act of
2014 and Subsequent Amendments: Manufacturing USA
In his FY2013 budget, President Obama proposed the creation of a National Network for In his FY2013 budget, President Obama proposed the creation of a National Network for
Manufacturing Innovation (NNMI) to help accelerate innovation by investing in industrially Manufacturing Innovation (NNMI) to help accelerate innovation by investing in industrially
relevant manufacturing technologies with broad applications, and to support manufacturing relevant manufacturing technologies with broad applications, and to support manufacturing
technology commercialization by bridging the gap between the laboratory and the market. technology commercialization by bridging the gap between the laboratory and the market.
Congress did not act on this request or a subsequent one made in President Obama’s FY2014 Congress did not act on this request or a subsequent one made in President Obama’s FY2014
request. President Obama renewed the request in his FY2015 budget. request. President Obama renewed the request in his FY2015 budget.
In December 2014, Congress enacted the Revitalize American Manufacturing and Innovation Act
In December 2014, Congress enacted the Revitalize American Manufacturing and Innovation Act
of 2014 (RAMI Act) as Title VII of Division B of the Consolidated and Further Continuing of 2014 (RAMI Act) as Title VII of Division B of the Consolidated and Further Continuing
Appropriations Act, 2015 (P.L. 113-235), establishing a Network for Manufacturing Innovation Appropriations Act, 2015 (P.L. 113-235), establishing a Network for Manufacturing Innovation
(NMI), largely similar to President Obama’s concept for the NNMI. President Obama signed the (NMI), largely similar to President Obama’s concept for the NNMI. President Obama signed the
bill into law on December 16, 2014. The RAMI Act directed the Secretary of Commerce to bill into law on December 16, 2014. The RAMI Act directed the Secretary of Commerce to
establish a Network for Manufacturing Innovation program within NIST. In September 2016, the establish a Network for Manufacturing Innovation program within NIST. In September 2016, the
Department of Commerce rebranded the NMI as “Manufacturing USA.” Department of Commerce rebranded the NMI as “Manufacturing USA.”
The purpose of Manufacturing USA is to improve the competitiveness of U.S. manufacturing and
The purpose of Manufacturing USA is to improve the competitiveness of U.S. manufacturing and
to increase the production of goods manufactured predominantly within the United States; to to increase the production of goods manufactured predominantly within the United States; to
stimulate U.S. leadership in advanced manufacturing research, innovation, and technology; to stimulate U.S. leadership in advanced manufacturing research, innovation, and technology; to
facilitate the transition of innovative technologies into scalable, cost-effective, and high-facilitate the transition of innovative technologies into scalable, cost-effective, and high-
performing manufacturing capabilities; to facilitate access by manufacturing enterprises to performing manufacturing capabilities; to facilitate access by manufacturing enterprises to
capital-intensive infrastructure, including high-performance electronics and computing, and the capital-intensive infrastructure, including high-performance electronics and computing, and the
supply chains that enable these technologies; to accelerate the development of an advanced supply chains that enable these technologies; to accelerate the development of an advanced
manufacturing workforce; to facilitate peer exchange and the documentation of best practices in manufacturing workforce; to facilitate peer exchange and the documentation of best practices in
addressing advanced manufacturing challenges; to leverage nonfederal sources of support to addressing advanced manufacturing challenges; to leverage nonfederal sources of support to
promote a stable and sustainable business model without the need for long-term federal funding; promote a stable and sustainable business model without the need for long-term federal funding;
and to create and preserve jobs.13 and to create and preserve jobs.13
The RAMI Act included provisions authorizing NIST, the Department of Energy, and other
The RAMI Act included provisions authorizing NIST, the Department of Energy, and other
agencies to support the establishment of manufacturing institutes, and providing for the agencies to support the establishment of manufacturing institutes, and providing for the
establishment and operation of a network of these institutes. establishment and operation of a network of these institutes.
The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016 (P.L. 114-113) provided specific funding, for the first The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016 (P.L. 114-113) provided specific funding, for the first
time, for the establishment and coordination of the institutes. The act provided NIST with $25.0 time, for the establishment and coordination of the institutes. The act provided NIST with $25.0
12 Department of Commerce, NIST, 12 Department of Commerce, NIST,
National Institute of Standards and Technology/National Technical Information
Service, Fiscal Year 2022 Budget Submission to Congress, p. NIST-175. , p. NIST-175.
13 For more information on the NMI, see CRS Report R43857,
13 For more information on the NMI, see CRS Report R43857,
The Network for Manufacturing Innovation, by John F. , by John F.
Sargent Jr. For more information on the NNMI proposal, see CRS Report R42625, Sargent Jr. For more information on the NNMI proposal, see CRS Report R42625,
The Obama Administration’s
Proposal to Establish a National Network for Manufacturing Innovation, by John F. Sargent Jr. , by John F. Sargent Jr.
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million for FY2016 for the NNMI, to include funding for establishment of institutes and up to
million for FY2016 for the NNMI, to include funding for establishment of institutes and up to
$5.0 million for coordination activities.14 $5.0 million for coordination activities.14
On December 16, 2016, NIST awarded NIIMBL, led by the University of Delaware, “to advance
On December 16, 2016, NIST awarded NIIMBL, led by the University of Delaware, “to advance
U.S. leadership in biopharmaceutical manufacturing.”15 Congress has subsequently provided U.S. leadership in biopharmaceutical manufacturing.”15 Congress has subsequently provided
funding to support NIIMBL and to coordinate the Manufacturing USA network. funding to support NIIMBL and to coordinate the Manufacturing USA network.
Section 1741 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (P.L. 116-92)
Section 1741 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (P.L. 116-92)
amended the RAMI Act. Among its provisions, the act codified the 2016 rebranding of the amended the RAMI Act. Among its provisions, the act codified the 2016 rebranding of the
program by DOC as the Manufacturing USA program, expanded the scope of potential program by DOC as the Manufacturing USA program, expanded the scope of potential
technology focus areas for institutes, established required and permissible activities for each technology focus areas for institutes, established required and permissible activities for each
institute, and authorized the designation of “substantially similar” institutes as Manufacturing institute, and authorized the designation of “substantially similar” institutes as Manufacturing
USA institutes for purposes of participation in the network. P.L. 116-92 also authorized the USA institutes for purposes of participation in the network. P.L. 116-92 also authorized the
Secretaries of Commerce and Energy and other agency heads (except DOD) to make financial Secretaries of Commerce and Energy and other agency heads (except DOD) to make financial
awards of five to seven years in duration to establish Manufacturing USA institutes, and to renew awards of five to seven years in duration to establish Manufacturing USA institutes, and to renew
the awards subject to merit review. Further, P.L. 116-92 eliminated a RAMI Act provision the awards subject to merit review. Further, P.L. 116-92 eliminated a RAMI Act provision
requiring consideration be given to whether a proposed institute could function without long-term requiring consideration be given to whether a proposed institute could function without long-term
federal funding, and authorized appropriations for Manufacturing USA institutes and network federal funding, and authorized appropriations for Manufacturing USA institutes and network
support for NIST through 2030 and for DOE Manufacturing USA institutes through FY2024. support for NIST through 2030 and for DOE Manufacturing USA institutes through FY2024.
Previous NIST Programs
In July 2013, NIST launched the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Consortia (AMTech) In July 2013, NIST launched the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Consortia (AMTech)
program and the Manufacturing Technology Acceleration Centers (M-TAC) program. program and the Manufacturing Technology Acceleration Centers (M-TAC) program.
Advanced Manufacturing Technology Consortia Program
Originally included in President Obama’s FY2013 budget request, AMTech makes planning
Originally included in President Obama’s FY2013 budget request, AMTech makes planning
awards to “establish industry-led consortia to identify and prioritize research projects supporting awards to “establish industry-led consortia to identify and prioritize research projects supporting
long-term industrial research needs.” AMTech seeks to incentivize manufacturers to share long-term industrial research needs.” AMTech seeks to incentivize manufacturers to share
financial and scientific resources with universities, state and local governments, and nonprofit financial and scientific resources with universities, state and local governments, and nonprofit
organizations.16 AMTech does not have a statutory authorization; the Consolidated and Further organizations.16 AMTech does not have a statutory authorization; the Consolidated and Further
Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 (P.L. 113-6) provided first-year funding of $14.5 million. Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 (P.L. 113-6) provided first-year funding of $14.5 million.
In December 2015, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016 (P.L. 114-113) directed NIST to
In December 2015, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016 (P.L. 114-113) directed NIST to
merge the Advanced Manufacturing Technology (AMTech) Consortia program with the NNMI.17 merge the Advanced Manufacturing Technology (AMTech) Consortia program with the NNMI.17
Manufacturing Technology Acceleration Centers Program
The M-TAC program was a pilot effort under MEP that sought to address “the technical and
The M-TAC program was a pilot effort under MEP that sought to address “the technical and
business challenges encountered by small and mid-sized U.S. manufacturers as they attempt to business challenges encountered by small and mid-sized U.S. manufacturers as they attempt to
adopt, integrate, and execute advanced product and process technologies into their operations.”18 adopt, integrate, and execute advanced product and process technologies into their operations.”18
14 The act also directs NIST to merge its Advanced Manufacturing Technology Consortia (AMTech) program into the 14 The act also directs NIST to merge its Advanced Manufacturing Technology Consortia (AMTech) program into the
NNMI. NNMI.
15 Advanced Manufacturing National Program Office, NIST, DOC, website, “NIST Manufacturing USA Institutes,”
15 Advanced Manufacturing National Program Office, NIST, DOC, website, “NIST Manufacturing USA Institutes,”
https://www.nist.gov/amo/nist-manufacturing-usa-institutes. https://www.nist.gov/amo/nist-manufacturing-usa-institutes.
16 NIST, “President’s FY 2013 Budget Request for NIST Targets Advanced Manufacturing, Critical Science and
16 NIST, “President’s FY 2013 Budget Request for NIST Targets Advanced Manufacturing, Critical Science and
Technology Programs,” press release, February 13, 2012, http://www.nist.gov/public_affairs/releases/Technology Programs,” press release, February 13, 2012, http://www.nist.gov/public_affairs/releases/
budget_2013.cfm. budget_2013.cfm.
17 Explanatory Statement, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016, P.L. 114-113, Division B, p. 7.
17 Explanatory Statement, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016, P.L. 114-113, Division B, p. 7.
18 Advanced Manufacturing National Program Office, NIST, DOC, website, “Explaining AMTech, M-TAC and 18 Advanced Manufacturing National Program Office, NIST, DOC, website, “Explaining AMTech, M-TAC and
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The funded project work on all the MTAC projects has been completed and a final presentation was made by each awardee to MEP Center directors and staff in May 2016.
NIST Authorizations and Appropriations in the CHIPS and Science Act Over the past several years, some Members of Congress and other policymakers have expressed concerns:
that only a small share of the world’s most advanced semiconductor fabrication
production capacity is located in the United States;
about the concentration of production in East Asia and related vulnerability of
semiconductor supply chains in the event of a trade dispute or military conflict and other risks such as product tampering and intellectual property theft;
about the economic and military implications of a loss of U.S. leadership in
semiconductors; and
that China’s state-led efforts to develop an indigenous, vertically-integrated
semiconductor industry, unprecedented in scope and scale, could, if successful, significantly shift global semiconductor production and related design and research capabilities to China, undermining U.S. and firms’ leading positions.
To address these concerns, in January 2021, Congress first enacted Title XCIX (Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) for America) of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (2021 NDAA, P.L. 116-283), which authorized new NIST programs intended to re-shore semiconductor manufacturing to the United States and to bolster future U.S. leadership in semiconductor through a range of public and public-private research and development activities.
Subsequently, in July 2022, Congress passed the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act (P.L. 117-167) which, among other things, included the CHIPS Act of 2022 as Division A. The CHIPS Act of 2022 funded and amended NIST authorities established under P.L. 116-283. In addition, Division B of Title II of the act, National Institute of Standards and Technology for the Future, provides a broad range of authorizations NIST activities as well as NIST appropriations. The following section addresses provisions of the CHIPS Act of 2022 (Division A, P.L. 117-167) and is followed by the NIST related provisions in National Institute of Standards and Technology for the Future (Division B, P.L. 117-167).
Semiconductor-Related Authorizations and Appropriations
Selected NIST-Related Provisions of the 2021 NDAA and CHIPS Act of 2022
The CHIPS Act of 2022 provides authorizations and appropriations to the Secretary of Commerce for a CHIPS for America Fund for the purpose of carrying out the provisions specified in Sections 9902 and 9906 of P.L. 116-283. These provisions seek to expand U.S. domestic semiconductor manufacturing fabrication capacity by offering financial incentives—direct financial assistance (i.e., grants, loans, loan guarantees) and tax deductions—and to help ensure
NNMI: New NIST Programs in Support of Advanced Manufacturing,” http://www.manufacturing.gov/docs/Explaining_AMTech_M-TAC_NNMI.pdf.
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U.S. technological and industrial leadership in semiconductor technology through R&D and the formation of public-private joint research activities. Of the $39 billion appropriated for execution of this section, $2.0 billion is provided “to incentivize investment in facilities and equipment in the United States for the fabrication, assembly, testing, or packaging of semiconductors at mature technology.”19
Section 9902: Incentives for Establishing and Equipping U.S. Semiconductor Fabrication Facilities Section 9902 of P.L. 116-283 authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to provide financial assistance to “covered entities” to incentivize investment in facilities and equipment in the United States for semiconductor fabrication, assembly, testing, advanced packaging, or research and development of semiconductors. By statute, covered entities include “a nonprofit entity, a private entity, a consortium of private entities, or a consortium of public and private entities with a demonstrated ability to substantially finance, construct, expand, or modernize a facility relating to fabrication, assembly, testing, advanced packaging, or research and development [R&D] of semiconductors.”20
Under the act, a covered entity may submit an application for financial assistance to the Secretary of Commerce. Subject to availability of funds and considerations specified in the act, the Secretary may determine the appropriate amount and funding type for each award made to a covered entity, up to $3.0 billion. Awards in excess of $3.0 billion may be made if the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense and the Director of National Intelligence, recommends such an award to the President, and the President certifies and reports to the appropriate committees of Congress, that a larger investment is necessary to significantly increase the proportion of reliable domestic supply of semiconductors relevant for national security and economic competitiveness.21
Section 9906(c): National Semiconductor Technology Center Section 9906(c) directs the Secretary of Commerce, in collaboration with the Secretary of Defense, to establish a National Semiconductor Technology Center to conduct research and prototyping of advanced semiconductor technology to strengthen the economic competitiveness and security of the domestic supply chain. The center is to be operated as consortium, with participation from the private sector, the Department of Energy, and the National Science Foundation. The center’s work is to emphasize advanced test, assembly, and packaging capability in the domestic semiconductor ecosystem; materials characterization, instrumentation and testing for next-generation microelectronics; virtualization and automation of maintenance of semiconductor machinery; and metrology for security and supply chain verification.22
Section 9906(d): National Advanced Packaging Manufacturing Program Section 9906(d) directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish a National Advanced Packaging Manufacturing Program, led by the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), to strengthen semiconductor advanced test, assembly, and packaging
19 15 U.S.C. 4652(e). 20 15 U.S.C. 4651(2). 21 15 U.S.C. 4652. 22 15 U.S.C. 4656(c).
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capability in the United States, and to coordinate its efforts with the National Semiconductor Technology Center, authorized by Section 9006(c), and the Manufacturing USA institute, authorized by Section 9006(f) (discussed below).23
Section 9906(e): NIST Semiconductor R&D Program Section 9906(e) authorizes the Director of NIST to conduct an R&D program to enable advances and breakthroughs in measurement science, standards, material characterization, instrumentation, testing, and manufacturing capabilities for next-generation microelectronics metrology, and to ensure U.S. competitiveness and leadership in microelectronics.24
Section 9906(e): Manufacturing USA Institutes Section 9906(f) authorizes the establishment of up to three Manufacturing USA institutes to pursue research in support of the virtualization and automation of maintenance of semiconductor machinery; the development of new advanced test, assembly and packaging capabilities; and the development and deployment of educational and skills training curricula needed to support the industry sector and to ensure the United States can build and maintain a trusted and predictable talent pipeline.25
CHIPS Act of 2022 Appropriations
The CHIPS Act of 2022 provides the following appropriations to support the activities authorized in P.L. 116-283:
$39.0 billion for the semiconductor incentives authorized by Section 9902,
including $19.0 billion for FY2022 and $5.0 billion for fiscal years 2023 through 2026;
$2.0 billion in FY2022 for the establishment of the National Semiconductor
Technology Center authorized by Section 9906(c);
$2.5 billion in FY2022 for the National Advanced Packaging Manufacturing
Program authorized by Section 9906(d); and
$500.0 million in FY2022 for NIST microelectronics research authorized by
Section 9906(e) and the semiconductor research-focused Manufacturing USA institute authorized by Section 9906(f).
The act also provides additional funding for activities authorized by Section
9906(c), (d), (e), and (f), in aggregate, for FY2023 ($2.0 billion), FY2024 ($1.3 billion), FY2025 ($1.1 billion), and FY2026 ($1.8 billion).
These appropriations, totaling $50.2 billion over the FY2022-FY2026 period, are summarized in Table 1.
23 15 U.S.C. 4656(d). 24 15 U.S.C. 4656(e). 25 15 U.S.C. 4656(f)
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Table 1. Appropriations for CHIPS for America Provisions
(in billions of dollars)
P.L. 116-283 Section
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
FY2025
FY2026
Total
9902
19.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
39.0
9906(c)
2.0
2.0
9906(d)
2.5
2.5
9906(e) and (f)
0.5
0.5
9906(c), (d), (e), and (f)
2.0
1.3
1.1
1.6
6.0
Total
24.0
7.0
6.3
6.1
6.6
50.0
Source: CRS analysis of P.L. 117-167. Notes: Table does not include appropriations for three related funds established by P.L. 117-163, discussed below.
The CHIPS Act of 2022 also establishes and provides appropriations for three related funds in other federal agencies.
The CHIPS for America Defense Fund to carry out section 9903(b) of P.L. 116-
283, the development of a National Network for Microelectronics Research and Development, which is intended to (1) enable laboratory-to-fabrication transition of microelectronics innovations in the United States and (2) expand U.S. global leadership in microelectronics. Activities of the network are intended to enable cost effective exploration of new materials, devices, and architectures, and prototyping in domestic facilities to safeguard domestic intellectual property; to accelerate the transition of new technologies to domestic microelectronics manufacturers; and to support other relevant activities ($400 million per year for fiscal years 2022-2026, a total of $2 billion, appropriated to the U.S. Treasury to be transferred and merged with Department of Defense accounts used for such purposes).26
The CHIPS for America International Technology Security and Innovation
Fund to provide for international information and communications technology security and semiconductor supply chain activities, among other things ($100 million per year for fiscal years 2022-2026, a total of $500 million, appropriated to the U.S. Treasury for transfer to accounts within the Department of State, the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Export-Import Bank, and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation).27
The CHIPS for America Workforce and Education Fund to support
microelectronics workforce development activities to meet the requirements of section 9906 ($25 million for FY2023, $25 million for FY2024, $50 million for FY2025, $50 million for FY2026, and $50 million for FY2027, a total of $200 million, appropriated to the National Science Foundation).28
26 P.L. 117-163, Section 102(b). 27 P.L. 117-163, Section 102(c). 28 P.L. 117-163, Section 102(d).
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National Institute of Standards and Technology for the Future Title II of Division B of the CHIPS and Science Act, titled “National Institute of Standards and Technology for the Future,” provides authorization of appropriations for fiscal years 2023 through 2027, as well as authorities for new activities.
Authorization of Appropriations for FY2023-FY2027
The act provides authorizations for three NIST accounts: the Scientific and Technical Research and Services (STRS) account that supports NIST’s laboratory activities; the Industrial Technology Services (ITS) account; and the Construction of Research Facilities (CRF) account. These accounts and the programs and activities funded by them are described later in this report (see “NIST Appropriations” below). Authorizations of appropriations for these accounts is shown in Table 1.
Table 2. FY2022 Appropriation and FY2023-2027 Authorization of Appropriations
(in millions of current dollars)
Appropriations
Authorization of Appropriations
FY2022
FY2023 FY2024 FY2025 FY2026 FY2027
Scientific and Technical Research
850.0
979.1
1,047.6
1,120.9
1,199.4
1,283.4
and Services
Industrial Technology Services
174.5
372.4
404.0
719.0
759.0
800.0
Manufacturing Extension Program
158.0
275.3
300.0
550.0
550.0
550.0
National Supply Chain
31.0
26.0
26.0
26.0
26.0
Database
Manufacturing USA
16.5
97.1
104.0
169.0
209.0
250.0
Construction of Research
205.6
200.0
200.0
200.0
200.0
200.0
Facilities
Safety, Capacity, Maintenance,
80.0
80.0
80.0
80.0
80.0
80.0
and Major Repairs
IT Infrastructure
20.0
20.0
20.0
20.0
Total
1,230.1
1,551.5 1,651.6
2,039.9
2,158.4
2,283.4
Source: P.L. 117-167. Notes: Programs in italics nested under the accounts are included in the account’s funding but are non-adds in this table. a. 42 USC 18961, as established by Section 10253 of P.L. 117-167.
For several accounts and programs, the authorizations for FY2023-FY2027 represent a substantial increase over current funding levels. The authorization would increase FY2023 funding over FY2022 levels by:
$321.4 million (26.1%) in total NIST appropriations; $129.1 million (15.2%) for the STRS account; $197.9 million (11.4%) for the ITS account; $117.3 million (74,2%) for the MEP program; and
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$80.6 million (488.5%) for Manufacturing USA.
The CRF account would decrease by $5.6 million (2.7%).
Comparing the FY2027 authorization levels to FY2022 appropriations:
total NIST appropriations would increase by $1.053 billion (85.6%); the STRS account would increase by $433.4 million (51.0%); the ITS account would increase by $625.5 million (358.5%); the MEP program would increase by $392.0 million (248.1%); and Manufacturing USA would increase by $233.5 million (1,415.2%).
The CRF account would decrease by $5.6 million (2.7%).
Other NIST Authorizations
The act provides addition NIST authorizations for its work in measurement science (metrology), general activities, the MEP program, and Manufacturing USA.
Measurement Science The act directs NIST to:
directs NIST to conduct a wide range of activities in engineering biology and
biometrology:
directs NIST to carry out a measurement research program to inform the
development or improvement of best practices, benchmarks, methodologies, procedures, and technical standards for the measurement of greenhouse gas emissions and to assess and improve the performance of greenhouse gas emissions measurement systems placed in situ and on space-based platforms;
amends NIST responsibilities for cybersecurity and privacy activities; directs NIST to conduct a variety of activities related to software security and
authentication;
amends the Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2014, directing NIST to carry out
research to support the development of voluntary, consensus-based technical standards, best practices, benchmarks, methodologies, metrology, testbeds, and conformance criteria for identity management; to work with public and private stakeholders to develop and maintain a technical roadmap for digital identity management R&D focused on enabling the voluntary use and adoption of modern digital identity solutions; and to provide definitions and voluntary guidance to stakeholders for digital identity management systems;
direct NIST to establish a program to support measurement research to inform
the development of best practices, benchmarks, methodologies, procedures, and voluntary, consensus-based technical standards for biometric identification systems, including facial recognition systems, to assess and improve the performance of such systems;
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amends the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (NIST Act)29 to
require as part of its standards and guidelines for information security, performance standards and guidelines for high risk biometric identification systems, including facial recognition systems;
amends the NIST Act to require NIST in its activities to protect research from
cyber security theft to consider institutes of higher education;
amends the NIST Act to require NIST to disseminate and make publicly available
resources to help qualifying institutions identify, assess, manage, and reduce their cybersecurity risk related to conducting research;
amends the NIST Act to require the establishment of program of measurement
research for advanced communications technologies;
directs NIST to develop a strategic plan for the future of its Center for Neutron
Research after the current neutron reactor is decommissioned;
directs NIST to continue to support the development of artificial intelligence and
data science, and carry out the activities of the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative Act of 2020 authorized under the 2021 NDAA;
directs NIST to carry out activities in support of sustainable chemistry, including
coordinating and partnering with stakeholders to support clean, safe, and economic alternatives, technologies, and methodologies to traditional chemical products and processes;
directs NIST to create a program for premise plumbing research, including
conducting metrology research in relation to water safety, security, efficiency, sustainability, and resilience; and coordinating research activities with academia, the private sector, nonprofit organizations, and other federal agencies; and
directs NIST to carry out the Dr. David Satcher Cybersecurity Education Grant
Program.
General Activities The act includes a number of provisions related to NIST’s general activities. Among the provisions, the act:
provides NIST with “other transaction” authority (often referred to as OTA) as
necessary in the conduct of its work and on such terms as it may determine appropriate;
provides NIST with special hiring and pay authorities for up to 15 scientific,
engineering, and professional personnel at rates set by the Secretary of Commerce, but not to exceed the pay authorized for the Vice President of the United States;
directs NIST to lead information exchange and coordination among federal
agencies and communication from federal agencies to the U.S. private sector to ensure effective federal engagement in the development and use of international technical standards;
29 15 U.S.C. 272.
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directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a study of
NIST’s policies and protocols to protect its research and to combat undue foreign influence; and
requires NIST to establish a competitive program of grants to nongovernmental
standards development organizations for developing, approving, disseminating, maintaining, and reviewing forensic science voluntary consensus standards and best practices that shall be available to the public free of charge.
Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership The act includes a number of provisions related to NIST’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership program. Among the provisions, the act establishes an Expansion Awards Pilot Program to make awards to MEP centers or consortiums of centers for:
providing worker education, training, development, and entrepreneurship
training and for connecting individuals or business with such services offered in their community;
providing services to improve the resiliency of domestic supply chains; mitigating vulnerabilities to cyberattacks, including helping to offset the cost
of cybersecurity projects for small manufacturers;
expanding advanced technology services to U.S.-based small- and medium-
sized manufacturers; and
building capabilities across the MEP network for domestic supply chain
resiliency and optimization.
The grants are to be made on a competitive, merit-based system, and to have broad geographic diversity among selected proposals. Recipients are not required to provide matching funds.
National Supply Chain Database The act requires NIST to establish a voluntary National Supply Chain Database to assist the federal government and industry sectors in minimizing disruptions to U.S. supply chains by having an assessment of U.S. manufacturers’ capabilities.
The act directs the database be established through the MEP program and that it provides a national overview of the networks of U.S. supply chains of the United States and provide support for understanding of whether there is a need for some manufacturers to retool in some critical areas to meet the urgent need for key products. The database may include basic private sector entity information; an overview of capabilities, accreditations, and products; and proprietary information.
The act requires the database be multi-leveled with information provided and available according to mutually agreed to disclosure:
Level 1 is to have the capability of providing basic private sector entity
information and is to be made available to the public;
Level 2 is to have the capability of providing a deeper, nonproprietary overview
into capabilities, products, and accreditations and shall be available to all companies that contribute to the database; and
Level 3 is to have the capability to hold proprietary information.
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Manufacturing USA The act amends the NIST Act related to the Manufacturing USA program in a number of ways. Among these provisions, the act:
directs that a number of preferences be given special consideration in the
selection of Manufacturing USA institutes, including geographic diversity, location in an area with a low per capita income, location in an area with a high proportion of socially disadvantaged residents, and location in small and rural communities;
directs that efforts be made to integrate specified “covered entities” in new and
existing Manufacturing USA institutes, including historically Black colleges and universities, tribal colleges and universities, minority-serving institutions, minority business enterprises, and rural-serving institution of higher education;
directs NIST and the Department of Defense to establish policies to promote the
domestic production of technologies developed by the Manufacturing USA network; and
directs NIST to develop a strategy for retaining domestic public benefits from
Manufacturing USA institutes once federal funding has been discontinued.
NIST The National Institute of Standards and Technology: An Appropriations Overview
The funded project work on all the MTAC projects has been completed and a final presentation was made by each awardee to MEP Center directors and staff in May 2016.
NIST Appropriations
Overview of NIST Appropriations Accounts
Discretionary funding for NIST is generally provided through three appropriations accounts: Discretionary funding for NIST is generally provided through three appropriations accounts:
The Scientific and Technical Research and Services (STRS) account supports
The Scientific and Technical Research and Services (STRS) account supports
NIST in-house laboratory research. The account also provided funding for the
NIST in-house laboratory research. The account also provided funding for the
Baldrige Performance Excellence Program through FY2011 and in some Baldrige Performance Excellence Program through FY2011 and in some
subsequent years. subsequent years.
The Industrial Technology Services (ITS) account supports NIST’s extramural
The Industrial Technology Services (ITS) account supports NIST’s extramural
programs. In FY2018, the ITS account provides funding for the MEP and
programs. In FY2018, the ITS account provides funding for the MEP and
NNMI programs. In Manufacturing USA programs, as well as the National Supply Chain Database. In earlier years, ITS provided funding for the Advanced Technology earlier years, ITS provided funding for the Advanced Technology
Program, the Technology Innovation Program, and the AMTech program. Program, the Technology Innovation Program, and the AMTech program.
The Construction of Research Facilities (CRF, also referred to in this report as
The Construction of Research Facilities (CRF, also referred to in this report as
construction) account supports construction, maintenance, and repair of NIST
construction) account supports construction, maintenance, and repair of NIST
facilities at its facilities in Gaithersburg, MD, and Boulder, CO. From FY2008 to facilities at its facilities in Gaithersburg, MD, and Boulder, CO. From FY2008 to
FY2010, CRF provided funding for a competitive grant program that funded the FY2010, CRF provided funding for a competitive grant program that funded the
construction of research facilities at U.S. universities and research institutions. construction of research facilities at U.S. universities and research institutions.
NIST Request for FY2022FY2023 Appropriations
The following sections provide information on NIST’s The following sections provide information on NIST’s
FY2022FY2023 request, in aggregate and for each request, in aggregate and for each
of its three accounts, as well as the of its three accounts, as well as the
FY2021FY2022 enacted appropriations for each. (See enacted appropriations for each. (See
Table 1.) On December 27, 2020, President Trump signed into law 166-260,3; the FY2023 NIST authorization levels are included in the table for reference.) On March 15, 2022, President Biden signed into law the Consolidated Appropriations Act, Consolidated Appropriations Act,
2021, 2022 (P.L. 117-103), providing, among other things, NIST appropriations for providing, among other things, NIST appropriations for
FY2021.
Total NIST Funding Requested for FY2022
The President is requesting $1,497.2 million for NIST in FY2022, an increase of $462.7 million (44.7%) from the FY2021 enacted appropriation of $1,034.5FY2022. As of the date of this report,
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neither the House nor Senate has acted on the Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Act that appropriates funding for NIST.
Total NIST Funding Requested for FY2023
The President is requesting $1,467.6 million for NIST in FY2023, an increase of $237.5 million (19.3%) above the FY2022 enacted appropriation of $1,230.1 million. million.
Scientific and Technical Research and Services
The President’s
The President’s
FY2022FY2023 request for NIST includes $ request for NIST includes $
915.6975.0 million for R&D, standards million for R&D, standards
coordination, and related services in the STRS account, an increase of $coordination, and related services in the STRS account, an increase of $
127.6125.0 million ( million (
16.2%) from the FY202114.7%) above the FY2022 enacted level of $ enacted level of $
788850.0 million..0 million.
1930 Of these funds, $ Of these funds, $
806.0855.4 million is requested million is requested
for Laboratory Programs, $for Laboratory Programs, $
91.5101.1 million for Standards Coordination and Special Programs, and million for Standards Coordination and Special Programs, and
$18.$18.
15 million is for Corporate Services.
Industrial Technology Services
The President’s FY2023 request for NIST would provide $372.3 million for the ITS account, up $174.5 million (113.4%). Within the ITS account, the request would provide $275.3 million for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership program, an increase $117.3 million (74.2%) from the FY2022 enacted level of $158.0 million. The FY2023 ITS request also includes $97.0 million for Manufacturing USA, an increase of $80.5 million (487.9%) from the FY2022 million is for Corporate Services.
NNMI: New NIST Programs in Support of Advanced Manufacturing,” http://www.manufacturing.gov/docs/Explaining_AMTech_M-TAC_NNMI.pdf.
19 CRS analysis of data from Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology, National Institute of Standards and Technology/National Technical Information Service, Fiscal Year 2022 Budget Submission to Congress, p. NIST-3, https://www.commerce.gov/sites/default/files/2021-06/fy2022_nist_congressional_budget_justification.pdf.
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Industrial Technology Services
The President’s FY2022 request for NIST would provide $441.6 million for the ITS account, up $275.1 million (165.2%). Within the ITS account, the request would provide $275.0 million for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership program, an increase $125.0 million (83.3%) from the FY2021 enacted level of $150.0 million. The FY2022 ITS request also includes $166.6 million for Manufacturing USA, an increase of $150.1 million (909.7%) from the FY2021 enacted level enacted level
of of
$16.5 million. The increase in requested$16.5 million. Of these funds, $5.0 million is requested for coordination of Manufacturing Manufacturing
USA network activities; $1.7 million is requested for grants to develop industrial technology roadmaps; $10.0 million is requested for support of the current NIST Manufacturing USA institute; and $150.0 million is requested for the award and funding of twoUSA funds would provide first-year funding for four new institutes. new institutes.
2031
Construction of Research Facilities
The President is requesting $
The President is requesting $
140.0120.3 million for the NIST CRF account for million for the NIST CRF account for
FY2022, up $60 million (75.0%) from the FY2021FY2023, down $85.3 million (41.5%) from the FY2022 enacted level of $ enacted level of $
80.0205.6 million. million.
2132 The entirety of these funds is The entirety of these funds is
requested for Safety, Capacity, Maintenance and Major Repairs; no funding is requested for requested for Safety, Capacity, Maintenance and Major Repairs; no funding is requested for
Construction and Major Renovations. Construction and Major Renovations.
30 CRS analysis of data from Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology, National Institute of Standards and Technology/National Technical Information Service, Fiscal Year 2022 Budget Submission to Congress, p. NIST-3, https://www.commerce.gov/sites/default/files/2021-06/fy2022_nist_congressional_budget_justification.pdf.
31 Ibid., pp. NIST-112-NIST-120. 32 Ibid., p. NIST-3.
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Table 3. NIST Authorizations and
Table 1. NIST Appropriations
(budget authority, in millions of dollars)
(budget authority, in millions of dollars)
FY2021
FY2022
FY2023 Authorized
FY2022 (P.L. 117-
FY2023 FY2022
FY2022
FY2022
Budget Account
Enacted 163)
Request
House
Senate
Enacted
Scientific and Technical
Scientific and Technical
Research and
788.0
915.6
850.0
979.1
975.0
Research and Services Services
Industrial Technology Services
Industrial Technology Services
166174.5 .5
441.6372.4
372.3
Manufacturing Extension Partnership
150
275.0
Network for Manufacturing Innovation
16.5
166.6
158.0
275.3
275.3
Partnership
National Supply Chain
31.0
Database
Manufacturing USA
16.5
97.1
97.0
Construction of Research Construction of Research
Facilities
80.0
140.0
NIST, Total
1,034.5
1,497.2
205.6
200.0
120.3
Facilities
Safety, Capacity, Maintenance,
80.0
80.0
120.3
and Major Repairs
Congressionally-directed
125.6
Extramural Projects
NIST, Total
1,034.5
1,551.5
1,467.6
Source: Department of Commerce, NIST, Department of Commerce, NIST,
National Institute of Standards and Technology/National Technical
Information Service, Fiscal Year 20222023 Budget Submission to Congress. Note: Columns may not add to totals due to rounding. (FY2023 request); P.L. 117-103 (FY2022 enacted); P.L. 117-167 (FY2023 authorizations). Note: Columns may not add to totals due to rounding.
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Funding Trends for NIST Accounts and Selected Programs
This section provides an overview of appropriations data for NIST in total and for each of its This section provides an overview of appropriations data for NIST in total and for each of its
appropriations accounts, as well as for the MEP and the Advanced Technology Program appropriations accounts, as well as for the MEP and the Advanced Technology Program
(eliminated in 2007) and the Technology Innovation Program (last funded in 2011)(eliminated in 2007) and the Technology Innovation Program (last funded in 2011)
. Appendix A
provides requested and enacted funding levels for NIST and its accounts for FY2003-FY2022. provides requested and enacted funding levels for NIST and its accounts for FY2003-FY2022.
Appendix B provides requested and enacted funding levels for selected NIST programs. provides requested and enacted funding levels for selected NIST programs.
20 Ibid., pp. NIST-112-NIST-120. 21 Ibid., p. NIST-3.
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Total NIST Funding
Figure 1 illustrates total requested and enacted NIST funding levels. Total appropriations for illustrates total requested and enacted NIST funding levels. Total appropriations for
NIST grew from $707.5 million in FY2003 to $1,NIST grew from $707.5 million in FY2003 to $1,
034.5230.1 million in million in
FY2021FY2022, a compound annual , a compound annual
growth rate (CAGR) of growth rate (CAGR) of
2.13.0%. In %. In
FY2021FY2022, appropriations , appropriations
remained constant with respect toincreased by $195.6 million (18.9%) over the FY2021 the FY2020 enacted level. President Biden is requesting $1, enacted level. President Biden is requesting $1,
497.2467.6 million for million for
FY2022FY2023, an increase of , an increase of
$462.7$237.5 million ( million (
44.7%) from the FY202119.3%) above the FY202s enacted level. enacted level.
Figure 1. Total NIST Appropriations
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2021FY2022; Requested Appropriations, FY2003-; Requested Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2022FY2023
(in millions of current dollars)
(in millions of current dollars)
Sources: Department of Commerce, NIST budget documents, appropriations acts, and explanatory statements Department of Commerce, NIST budget documents, appropriations acts, and explanatory statements
for FY2003-for FY2003-
FY2022FY2023. .
Note: ARRA = American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. ARRA = American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
Scientific and Technical Research and Services Account
Figure 2 illustrates requested and enacted funding levels for the NIST STRS account. This illustrates requested and enacted funding levels for the NIST STRS account. This
account saw a steady rise in both request and appropriations levels through FY2016. STRS account saw a steady rise in both request and appropriations levels through FY2016. STRS
funding requests declined from FY2016 to FY2019 when it began to rise again. For funding requests declined from FY2016 to FY2019 when it began to rise again. For
FY2021FY2022, ,
President President
TrumpBiden requested $ requested $
652.0915.6 million for STRS; Congress appropriated $ million for STRS; Congress appropriated $
788850.0 million. .0 million.
President Biden’s President Biden’s
FY2022FY2023 request for STRS is $ request for STRS is $
915.6975.0 million, $ million, $
127.6125.0 million ( million (
16.214.7%) above the %) above the
FY2021FY2022 enacted level. enacted level.
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Figure 2. Scientific and Technical Research and Services Account
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2021FY2022; Requested Appropriations, FY2003-; Requested Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2022FY2023
(in millions of current dollars)
(in millions of current dollars)
Sources: Department of Commerce, NIST budget documents, appropriations acts, and explanatory statements Department of Commerce, NIST budget documents, appropriations acts, and explanatory statements
for FY2003-for FY2003-
FY2022FY2023. .
Note: ARRA = American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. ARRA = American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
Construction of Research Facilities Account
Figure 3 illustrates requested and enacted funding levels for the NIST CRF account. Construction illustrates requested and enacted funding levels for the NIST CRF account. Construction
account funding has fluctuated. CRF funding jumped from $72.5 million in FY2005 to $173.7 account funding has fluctuated. CRF funding jumped from $72.5 million in FY2005 to $173.7
million in FY2006, fell to $58.7 million in FY2007, rose to $160.5 million in FY2008, and then million in FY2006, fell to $58.7 million in FY2007, rose to $160.5 million in FY2008, and then
rose to $532.0 million in FY2009 (of which $172.0 million was provided for in regular rose to $532.0 million in FY2009 (of which $172.0 million was provided for in regular
appropriations and $360 million provided under ARRA).appropriations and $360 million provided under ARRA).
2233 Funding fell from FY2010 to FY2012, Funding fell from FY2010 to FY2012,
dropping to $55.4 million, then it remained relatively flat through FY2015 (ranging from $50 dropping to $55.4 million, then it remained relatively flat through FY2015 (ranging from $50
million to $56 million per year). In FY2016, CRF appropriations jumped to $119.0 million; $60.0 million to $56 million per year). In FY2016, CRF appropriations jumped to $119.0 million; $60.0
million of the increase was designated for beginning “the design and renovation of [NIST’s] million of the increase was designated for beginning “the design and renovation of [NIST’s]
outdated and unsafe radiation physics infrastructure.” In FY2017, CRF appropriations were outdated and unsafe radiation physics infrastructure.” In FY2017, CRF appropriations were
$109.0 million, of which $60.0 million was designated for design and renovation of NIST’s $109.0 million, of which $60.0 million was designated for design and renovation of NIST’s
radiation physics infrastructure.radiation physics infrastructure.
2334 In FY2018, CRF appropriations jumped to $319.0 million, In FY2018, CRF appropriations jumped to $319.0 million,
$210.0 million (192.7%) above the FY2017 level. In FY2019, CRS appropriations fell to $106.0 $210.0 million (192.7%) above the FY2017 level. In FY2019, CRS appropriations fell to $106.0
million, rose to $118 million in FY2020, then fell to $80 million in FY2021. million, rose to $118 million in FY2020, then fell to $80 million in FY2021.
President Biden is requesting $140.0 million for the NIST CRF account for FY2022, up $60.0 million (75.0%) from the FY2021 enacted levelIn FY2022, CRF appropriations rose to $205.6 million, of which $125.6 million was designated for congressionally-directed projects. President Biden is requesting $120.3 million for the NIST CRF account for FY2023. .
In FY2008, FY2009, and FY2010, the CRF account provided funding for a competitive
In FY2008, FY2009, and FY2010, the CRF account provided funding for a competitive
construction grant program that funded the construction of research facilities at U.S. universities construction grant program that funded the construction of research facilities at U.S. universities
and research institutions. Appropriations for CRF have also included funding for congressionally and research institutions. Appropriations for CRF have also included funding for congressionally
designated projects in some designated projects in some
years. Figure 4 illustrates the funding levels for the NIST CRF account excluding congressionally directed projects and the competitive grant program. years. In FY2022, Congress provided $125.6 million for seven
2233 Of the $360 million that ARRA provided this account in FY2009, $180 million was designated for the competitive Of the $360 million that ARRA provided this account in FY2009, $180 million was designated for the competitive
construction grant program. construction grant program.
2334 P.L. 115-31. P.L. 115-31.
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projects. Figure 4 illustrates the funding levels for the NIST CRF account excluding congressionally directed projects and the competitive grant program.
Figure 3. Construction of Research Facilities Account
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2021FY2022; Requested Appropriations, FY2003-; Requested Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2022FY2023
(in millions of current dollars)
(in millions of current dollars)
Sources: Department of Commerce, NIST budget documents, appropriations acts, and explanatory statements Department of Commerce, NIST budget documents, appropriations acts, and explanatory statements
for FY2003-for FY2003-
FY2022FY2023. .
Note: ARRA = American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The level shown for the FY2020 request includes ARRA = American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The level shown for the FY2020 request includes
those amounts ($288.0 mil ion) requested by the President as part of a proposed GSA Federal Capital Revolving those amounts ($288.0 mil ion) requested by the President as part of a proposed GSA Federal Capital Revolving
Fund to be used for NIST renovation. While the Administration requested the revolving funds be established via Fund to be used for NIST renovation. While the Administration requested the revolving funds be established via
mandatory funding and repaid through NIST annual discretionary appropriations, the Congressional Budget mandatory funding and repaid through NIST annual discretionary appropriations, the Congressional Budget
Office (CBO) estimated this proposal in a manner consistent with current practice that capital expenditures are Office (CBO) estimated this proposal in a manner consistent with current practice that capital expenditures are
recorded on a cash basis in the federal budget. recorded on a cash basis in the federal budget.
Figure 4. Construction of Research Facilities Account, Excluding Funding for
Congressionally Directed Projects and the
Competitive Construction Grant Program
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2021FY2022 Requested Appropriations, FY2003- Requested Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2022FY2023
Sources: Department of Commerce, NIST budget documents, appropriations acts, and explanatory statements Department of Commerce, NIST budget documents, appropriations acts, and explanatory statements
for FY2003-for FY2003-
FY2022. FY2023.
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Note: ARRA = American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The level shown for the FY2020 request includes ARRA = American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The level shown for the FY2020 request includes
those amounts ($288.0 mil ion) requested by the President as part of a proposed GSA Federal Capital Revolving those amounts ($288.0 mil ion) requested by the President as part of a proposed GSA Federal Capital Revolving
Fund to be used for NIST renovation. While the Administration requested the revolving funds be established via Fund to be used for NIST renovation. While the Administration requested the revolving funds be established via
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mandatory funding and repaid through NIST annual discretionary appropriations, the Congressional Budget mandatory funding and repaid through NIST annual discretionary appropriations, the Congressional Budget
Office (CBO) estimated this proposal in a manner consistent with current practice that capital expenditures are Office (CBO) estimated this proposal in a manner consistent with current practice that capital expenditures are
recorded on a cash basis in the federal budget. recorded on a cash basis in the federal budget.
Industrial Technology Services Account
Figure 5 illustrates requested and enacted funding levels for the NIST ITS account. ITS requests illustrates requested and enacted funding levels for the NIST ITS account. ITS requests
and appropriations during this period have included the MEP, and appropriations during this period have included the MEP,
NNMIManufacturing USA (formerly the NNMI), AMTech, ATP, TIP, and , AMTech, ATP, TIP, and
Baldrige programs in some or all years. Total appropriations for the ITS account fell from $284.8 Baldrige programs in some or all years. Total appropriations for the ITS account fell from $284.8
million in FY2003 to $128.4 million in FY2012, grew to $155.0 million in FY2016 and million in FY2003 to $128.4 million in FY2012, grew to $155.0 million in FY2016 and
have since remained flat. Congress appropriated $166.5 million in FY2021. The FY2022remained flat before rising from $155 million in 2019 to $175 million in FY2022. The FY2023 request seeks $97.0 request seeks $166.6 million for Manufacturing USA, $ million for Manufacturing USA, $
150.1 million (909.780.5 million (487.9%) higher than the %) higher than the
FY2021FY2022 enacted enacted
level of $16.5 million. Of these funds, $5.0 million is requested for coordination of the network of manufacturing institutes; $1.7 million for grants to develop industrial technology roadmaps; $10.0 million for support of the current NIST Manufacturing USA institute, NIIMBL; and $150.0 million for the award and funding of two additional Manufacturing USA institutes. level of $16.5 million. The additional funds would pay for the first-year of four additional institutes. The FY2023 request seeks $275.3 million for the MEP program.
Substantial fluctuations in the levels of funding requested and provided for the MEP, ATP, and
Substantial fluctuations in the levels of funding requested and provided for the MEP, ATP, and
TIP programs are reflected in aggregate iTIP programs are reflected in aggregate i
n Figure 5, and illustrated and discussed in more detail nd illustrated and discussed in more detail
on the following pages. on the following pages.
Figure 5. Industrial Technology Services Account
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2021FY2022; Requested Appropriations, FY2003-; Requested Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2022FY2023
(in millions of current dollars)
(in millions of current dollars)
Sources: Department of Commerce, NIST budget documents, appropriations acts, and explanatory statements Department of Commerce, NIST budget documents, appropriations acts, and explanatory statements
for FY2003-for FY2003-
FY2022FY2023. .
Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program
Figure 6 illustrates requested and enacted funding levels for the NIST MEP program. FY2003 illustrates requested and enacted funding levels for the NIST MEP program. FY2003
enacted appropriations of $105.9 million were cut to $38.6 million in FY2004, but returned to enacted appropriations of $105.9 million were cut to $38.6 million in FY2004, but returned to
near the FY2003 level in FY2005 ($107.5 million) and stayed near that level through FY2007. near the FY2003 level in FY2005 ($107.5 million) and stayed near that level through FY2007.
The MEP funding dipped again in FY2008, to $89.6 million, then rose over the next several years The MEP funding dipped again in FY2008, to $89.6 million, then rose over the next several years
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to $140.0 million in FY2018. Requests from FY2003 to FY2009 were substantially lower than to $140.0 million in FY2018. Requests from FY2003 to FY2009 were substantially lower than
appropriations, falling to $2.0 million in FY2009. In FY2010, the Obama Administration appropriations, falling to $2.0 million in FY2009. In FY2010, the Obama Administration
requested $124.7 million for MEP. From FY2012 to FY2017, requests were somewhat higher requested $124.7 million for MEP. From FY2012 to FY2017, requests were somewhat higher
than enacted appropriations. For FY2018, President Trump requested $6.0 million for the MEP than enacted appropriations. For FY2018, President Trump requested $6.0 million for the MEP
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program to provide “for the orderly wind down of federal funding for the program”; however, program to provide “for the orderly wind down of federal funding for the program”; however,
Congress appropriated $140.0 million.Congress appropriated $140.0 million.
2435 For FY2019, FY2020, and FY2021, President Trump For FY2019, FY2020, and FY2021, President Trump
requested no funding for MEP; Congress appropriated $140.0 million, $146.0 million, and $150.0 requested no funding for MEP; Congress appropriated $140.0 million, $146.0 million, and $150.0
million, respectively. For FY2022, President Biden million, respectively. For FY2022, President Biden
requested $275.0 million; Congress appropriated $158 million. In FY2023 President Biden is requesting $275.3 million for MEP, $117.3 million (74.2%) above the FY2022is requesting $275.0 million, an increase of $125.0 million (83.3%) above the FY2021 enacted level. enacted level.
Figure 6. Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2021;FY20212 Requested Appropriations, FY2003- Requested Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2022FY2023
(in millions of current dollars)
(in millions of current dollars)
Sources: Department of Commerce, NIST budget documents, appropriations acts, and explanatory statements Department of Commerce, NIST budget documents, appropriations acts, and explanatory statements
for FY2003-for FY2003-
FY2022FY2023. .
Advanced Technology Program/Technology Innovation Program
The Advanced Technology Program saw its requests fall from $107.9 million in FY2003 to zero
The Advanced Technology Program saw its requests fall from $107.9 million in FY2003 to zero
in FY2005, and its appropriations fall from $178.9 million in FY2003 to zero in FY2008; no in FY2005, and its appropriations fall from $178.9 million in FY2003 to zero in FY2008; no
funding was requested in FY2005 and subsequent years. The Technology Innovation Program, funding was requested in FY2005 and subsequent years. The Technology Innovation Program,
which succeeded ATP, was first funded at $65.2 million in FY2008 and rose to $69.9 million in which succeeded ATP, was first funded at $65.2 million in FY2008 and rose to $69.9 million in
FY2010 before falling to $45.0 million in FY2011. The TIP program received no funding in FY2010 before falling to $45.0 million in FY2011. The TIP program received no funding in
FY2012 or in subsequent years. The $69.9 million requested for TIP in FY2010 was fully funded; FY2012 or in subsequent years. The $69.9 million requested for TIP in FY2010 was fully funded;
in FY2011 the TIP request was $79.9 million, and in FY2012 it was $75.0 million. No funding in FY2011 the TIP request was $79.9 million, and in FY2012 it was $75.0 million. No funding
has been requested for TIP since FY2012. has been requested for TIP since FY2012.
2435 NIST, NIST,
National Institute of Standards and Technology/National Technical Information Service Fiscal Year 2018
Budget Submission to Congress,,
May 2017, p. NIST-4.May 2017, p. NIST-4.
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Figure 7. Advanced Technology Program and Technology Innovation Program
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-FY2021; Requested Appropriations, FY2003-FY2022
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-FY2021; Requested Appropriations, FY2003-FY2022
(in millions of current dollars)
(in millions of current dollars)
Sources: Department of Commerce, NIST budget documents, appropriations acts, and explanatory statements Department of Commerce, NIST budget documents, appropriations acts, and explanatory statements
for FY2003-FY2022. for FY2003-FY2022.
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Concluding Observations
When NBS was renamed NIST under the provisions of the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness When NBS was renamed NIST under the provisions of the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness
Act of 1988, the laboratory was given additional missions and supporting programs. Two of the Act of 1988, the laboratory was given additional missions and supporting programs. Two of the
new programs—the Advanced Technology Program and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership new programs—the Advanced Technology Program and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership
program—were intended to improve U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness. These program—were intended to improve U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness. These
programs generated criticism from some policymakers and analysts who objected to them on a programs generated criticism from some policymakers and analysts who objected to them on a
variety of grounds, including whether such activities are appropriate for the federal government to variety of grounds, including whether such activities are appropriate for the federal government to
undertake; whether they might result in suboptimal choices of technologies, choices better left to undertake; whether they might result in suboptimal choices of technologies, choices better left to
market forces; whether certain technologies, companies, or industries might be chosen for support market forces; whether certain technologies, companies, or industries might be chosen for support
based on criteria other than technical or business merit; and whether tax dollars should be based on criteria other than technical or business merit; and whether tax dollars should be
awarded to already-profitable firms. awarded to already-profitable firms.
In contrast, NIST’s historical mission of conducting laboratory research in support of standards
In contrast, NIST’s historical mission of conducting laboratory research in support of standards
and metrics continued to enjoy broad support and faced little controversy. Evidence of this and metrics continued to enjoy broad support and faced little controversy. Evidence of this
support can be seen in the selection of the STRS account—through which NIST laboratory work support can be seen in the selection of the STRS account—through which NIST laboratory work
is funded—as one of the targeted accounts in the doubling efforts of former Presidents George W. is funded—as one of the targeted accounts in the doubling efforts of former Presidents George W.
Bush and Barack Obama and successive Congresses. However, even with broad support and the Bush and Barack Obama and successive Congresses. However, even with broad support and the
absence of controversy, funding for the NIST STRS account did not grow at the pace its absence of controversy, funding for the NIST STRS account did not grow at the pace its
advocates supported in presidential budget requests and successive authorizations of advocates supported in presidential budget requests and successive authorizations of
appropriations due to tight overall fiscal constraints on the federal budget. appropriations due to tight overall fiscal constraints on the federal budget.
These issues are discussed in more detail below. Most recently, Congress enacted the CHIPS and Science Act giving NIST new funding and authorities related to U.S. technological and industrial competitiveness, much of which is focused on the semiconductor industry.
These issues are discussed in more detail below.
CHIPS and Related Semiconductor Programs The CHIPS and Science Act provides the Commerce Department $50 billion for a multifaceted program to incentivize the establishment and equipping of semiconductor manufacturing fabrication facilities in the United States, as well as to support R&D to bolster future U.S. semiconductor technology leadership.
During the legislative process, a number of concerns were raised about the effects of these authorities and appropriations. Among these concerns were:
if and how the incentive programs might adversely distort market decisions; how the funds should be allocated for different types of semiconductor
fabrication (e.g., logic, memory) and different generations of semiconductor fabrication (i.e., leading-edge, legacy); Congress specifically allocated $2.0 billion of the $39.0 billion in incentive funding for mature technology nodes for legacy chip production in the United States but left allocation of the balance of funding to NIST’s discretion;36
36 The CHIPS and Science Act defines legacy chips as those that include “(aa) a semiconductor technology that is of the 28 nanometer generation or older for logic; (bb) with respect to memory technology, analog technology, packaging technology, and any other relevant technology, any legacy generation of semiconductor technology relative to the generation described in item (aa), as determined by the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense and the Director of National Intelligence; and(cc) any additional semiconductor technology identified by the Secretary in a public notice issued under clause (ii); and (II) does not include a semiconductor that is critical to national security, as determined by the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense and the Director of National Intelligence.”
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ensuring that incentive funds are not used for stock buy-backs or the payment of
dividends to stockholders; Congress included a provision in the act to prevent such use; and
ensuring that incentive funds are not used to offset planned expenditures that
might then be used to support the company’s semiconductor manufacturing, R&D, or related activities in China; Congress included a provision in the act requiring incentive recipients to agree to a 10-year moratorium on any significant transaction involving the material expansion of semiconductor manufacturing capacity in foreign countries of concern (e.g., China), but includes an exception for existing legacy chip fabrication facilities and equipment, and new legacy fabrication facilities that serve the market of the foreign country of concern.
Congress may opt to conduct oversight on NIST’s administration of the funds appropriated under the CHIPS and Science Act, the effect the incentive funding may have on semiconductor fabrication domestically and globally, whether the economic and national security needs of the United States are adequately being addressed by these programs, whether funding recipients’ are complying with the requirements of the act, and the effectiveness of the semiconductor R&D appropriations with respect to ensuring U.S. technological leadership and industrial competiveness.
NIST Doubling Effort
In the early 2000s, many industry, academia, and policy leaders expressed growing concern that In the early 2000s, many industry, academia, and policy leaders expressed growing concern that
federal investments in physical sciences and engineering research were not growing fast enough federal investments in physical sciences and engineering research were not growing fast enough
to keep the United States on the leading edge of technological innovation and commercial to keep the United States on the leading edge of technological innovation and commercial
competitiveness. In his 2006 State of the Union remarks, President Bush announced the American competitiveness. In his 2006 State of the Union remarks, President Bush announced the American
Competitiveness Initiative (ACI), which, among other things, sought to double funding for Competitiveness Initiative (ACI), which, among other things, sought to double funding for
targeted appropriations accounts that fund physical sciences and engineering research over a 10-targeted appropriations accounts that fund physical sciences and engineering research over a 10-
year period. Among the targeted accounts were the NIST STRS and construction accounts. year period. Among the targeted accounts were the NIST STRS and construction accounts.
Subsequently, Congress passed the America COMPETES Act (P.L. 110-69), which set Subsequently, Congress passed the America COMPETES Act (P.L. 110-69), which set
appropriations authorizations for the targeted accounts for FY2008-FY2010 that represented a appropriations authorizations for the targeted accounts for FY2008-FY2010 that represented a
compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.1% that would have, if continued, resulted in a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.1% that would have, if continued, resulted in a
doubling over approximately seven years. doubling over approximately seven years.
In his FY2010
In his FY2010
Plan for Science and Innovation, President Obama stated that he (like President , President Obama stated that he (like President
Bush) would seek to double funding for basic research over 10 years (FY2006 to FY2016) at the Bush) would seek to double funding for basic research over 10 years (FY2006 to FY2016) at the
ACI agencies. Actual appropriations, however, did not keep pace with the America COMPETES ACI agencies. Actual appropriations, however, did not keep pace with the America COMPETES
Act authorization levels. In his FY2011 budget request, President Obama extended the period Act authorization levels. In his FY2011 budget request, President Obama extended the period
over which he intended to double these agencies’ budgets to 11 years. In 2010, Congress enacted over which he intended to double these agencies’ budgets to 11 years. In 2010, Congress enacted
the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-358), setting appropriations the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-358), setting appropriations
authorizations for the targeted accounts for FY2011-FY2013 at a level that effectively set an 11-authorizations for the targeted accounts for FY2011-FY2013 at a level that effectively set an 11-
year doubling pace (a 6.3% CAGR). However, as with the original act, appropriations did not year doubling pace (a 6.3% CAGR). However, as with the original act, appropriations did not
keep pace with the authorization act levels. While reiterating President Obama’s intention to keep pace with the authorization act levels. While reiterating President Obama’s intention to
double funding for the targeted accounts from their FY2006 levels, President Obama’s FY2013 double funding for the targeted accounts from their FY2006 levels, President Obama’s FY2013
budget request did not specify the length of time over which the doubling was to take place. budget request did not specify the length of time over which the doubling was to take place.
President Obama’s FY2014 budget expressed a commitment to increasing funding for the President Obama’s FY2014 budget expressed a commitment to increasing funding for the
targeted accounts, but did not commit to doubling. President Obama’s FY2017 budget did not targeted accounts, but did not commit to doubling. President Obama’s FY2017 budget did not
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address the doubling effort. From FY2006, the base year for the doubling effort, through FY2016, address the doubling effort. From FY2006, the base year for the doubling effort, through FY2016,
funding for the NIST STRS and construction accounts grew by 42.3% in nominal terms, a funding for the NIST STRS and construction accounts grew by 42.3% in nominal terms, a
compound annual growth rate of 3.6%, a rate that would result in doubling in about 20 years. compound annual growth rate of 3.6%, a rate that would result in doubling in about 20 years.
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President Obama’s FY2017 request sought an increase in aggregate funding for these accounts of President Obama’s FY2017 request sought an increase in aggregate funding for these accounts of
2.0%. 2.0%.
President Trump’sPresidential budget requests budget requests
for FY2018, FY2019, FY2020, and FY2021 did not mention this doubling goal. It remains to be seen how support for internal R&D at NIST will evolvesince FY2018 have not mentioned the doubling goal.
The CHIPS and Science Act authorization of total appropriations for NIST would seek to increase funding from $1,230.1 million in FY2022 to $2.283 million in FY2027, an 85.6% increase over five years (a doubling pace of six years). It remains to be seen how appropriations match the aspirations of these authorization levels. .
NIST Technology Policy
Some of NIST’s external programs have faced substantial opposition over time. Beginning with Some of NIST’s external programs have faced substantial opposition over time. Beginning with
the 104th Congress, many Members expressed skepticism over a “technology policy” based on the 104th Congress, many Members expressed skepticism over a “technology policy” based on
providing federal funds to industry for development of precompetitive generic technologies. This providing federal funds to industry for development of precompetitive generic technologies. This
philosophical shift from previous Congresses, coupled with pressures to balance the federal philosophical shift from previous Congresses, coupled with pressures to balance the federal
budget, led to significant reductions in funding for NIST’s external programs. The Advanced budget, led to significant reductions in funding for NIST’s external programs. The Advanced
Technology Program and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, which accounted for over Technology Program and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, which accounted for over
50% of the FY1995 NIST budget, were proposed for elimination. Although in the past strong 50% of the FY1995 NIST budget, were proposed for elimination. Although in the past strong
support by the Senate led to their continued financing, funding for ATP remained controversial. support by the Senate led to their continued financing, funding for ATP remained controversial.
Beginning in FY2000, the House-passed appropriations bills did not contain funding for ATP, and Beginning in FY2000, the House-passed appropriations bills did not contain funding for ATP, and
many of the budget proposals submitted by former President George W. Bush called for many of the budget proposals submitted by former President George W. Bush called for
abolishing the program. In the 110th Congress, the America COMPETES Act eliminated ATP and abolishing the program. In the 110th Congress, the America COMPETES Act eliminated ATP and
replaced it with the TIP initiative. While TIP received appropriations from FY2008 to FY2011, it replaced it with the TIP initiative. While TIP received appropriations from FY2008 to FY2011, it
has received no appropriations since. has received no appropriations since.
In his FY2003 budget proposal, President Bush also recommended suspension of federal support
In his FY2003 budget proposal, President Bush also recommended suspension of federal support
for those MEP centers in operation for more than six years; the following year, funding for the for those MEP centers in operation for more than six years; the following year, funding for the
MEP program was significantly reduced. However, the FY2005 Omnibus Appropriations Act MEP program was significantly reduced. However, the FY2005 Omnibus Appropriations Act
brought support for MEP back up to the level necessary to fully fund the existing centers. Since brought support for MEP back up to the level necessary to fully fund the existing centers. Since
then, funding has grown from $107.5 million in FY2005 to $130.0 million in FY2016. President then, funding has grown from $107.5 million in FY2005 to $130.0 million in FY2016. President
Obama requested $142.0 million for MEP for FY2017, an increase of $12.0 million (9.2%); Obama requested $142.0 million for MEP for FY2017, an increase of $12.0 million (9.2%);
Congress provided $130 million, an amount equal to its FY2016 level. For FY2017, Congress Congress provided $130 million, an amount equal to its FY2016 level. For FY2017, Congress
provided $140.0 million for MEP. President Trump’s FY2018 budget request sought to end the provided $140.0 million for MEP. President Trump’s FY2018 budget request sought to end the
MEP program, providing $6.0 million in FY2018 to provide “for the orderly wind down of MEP program, providing $6.0 million in FY2018 to provide “for the orderly wind down of
federal funding for the program.”federal funding for the program.”
2537 President Trump’s FY2019, FY2020, and FY2021 requests President Trump’s FY2019, FY2020, and FY2021 requests
sought no funding for MEP; nevertheless, Congress provided consistent funding during this sought no funding for MEP; nevertheless, Congress provided consistent funding during this
period. For FY2022, President Biden is seeking $275 million for MEP, an increase of $125.0 period. For FY2022, President Biden is seeking $275 million for MEP, an increase of $125.0
million above the FY2021 level. For more information on MEP, see CRS Report R44308, million above the FY2021 level. For more information on MEP, see CRS Report R44308,
The
Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program, by John F. Sargent Jr. , by John F. Sargent Jr.
Manufacturing USA
Manufacturing USA, as originally envisioned by President Obama in his FY2013 budget as the Manufacturing USA, as originally envisioned by President Obama in his FY2013 budget as the
National Network for Manufacturing Innovation (later Manufacturing USA), proposed $1 billion National Network for Manufacturing Innovation (later Manufacturing USA), proposed $1 billion
in mandatory funding to support the establishment of up to 15 institutes. In the absence of a in mandatory funding to support the establishment of up to 15 institutes. In the absence of a
statutory foundation and mandatory appropriation, the Obama Administration began—and the statutory foundation and mandatory appropriation, the Obama Administration began—and the
2537 NIST, NIST,
National Institute of Standards and Technology/National Technical Information Service Fiscal Year 2018
Budget Submission to Congress,,
May 2017, p. NIST-4.May 2017, p. NIST-4.
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Trump Administration continued—the establishment of institutes using existing Department of
Trump Administration continued—the establishment of institutes using existing Department of
Defense and Department of Energy authorities and discretionary appropriations.Defense and Department of Energy authorities and discretionary appropriations.
2638
In 2012, the Advanced Manufacturing National Program Office (AMNPO) sought nationwide
In 2012, the Advanced Manufacturing National Program Office (AMNPO) sought nationwide
input from companies, academia, state and regional governments, economic development input from companies, academia, state and regional governments, economic development
authorities, industry associations and consortia, private citizens, and other interested parties to authorities, industry associations and consortia, private citizens, and other interested parties to
help guide the design of the NNMI. The input gathered from workshops and a request for help guide the design of the NNMI. The input gathered from workshops and a request for
information was used by the AMNPO in the preparation of a National Science and Technology information was used by the AMNPO in the preparation of a National Science and Technology
Committee report, Committee report,
National Network for Manufacturing Innovation: A Preliminary Design (hereinafter the(hereinafter the
Preliminary Design report),report),
published in January 2013. This document articulated published in January 2013. This document articulated
the Obama Administration’s perspective of the principles and characteristics that should guide the Obama Administration’s perspective of the principles and characteristics that should guide
development of the NNMI program.22 development of the NNMI program.22
The
The
Preliminary Design report proposed that the institutes be long-term partnerships between report proposed that the institutes be long-term partnerships between
industry and academia (including universities and community colleges) enabled by federal, state, industry and academia (including universities and community colleges) enabled by federal, state,
and local governments. The network and individual institutes were to have a strong focus on and local governments. The network and individual institutes were to have a strong focus on
building clusters of advanced manufacturing capabilities that join expertise from industry, building clusters of advanced manufacturing capabilities that join expertise from industry,
academia, and government. The NNMI’s emphasis was to be on linking and integrating existing academia, and government. The NNMI’s emphasis was to be on linking and integrating existing
public and private resources into a robust national innovation ecosystem. The institutes were to public and private resources into a robust national innovation ecosystem. The institutes were to
serve as regional nodes of advanced manufacturing capabilities, where the processes to build serve as regional nodes of advanced manufacturing capabilities, where the processes to build
next-generation products are next-generation products are
bebeing developed, demonstrated, and refined to the point where there is a developed, demonstrated, and refined to the point where there is a
clearer, lower-risk path to commercial-scale manufacturing. Institutes were to leverage existing clearer, lower-risk path to commercial-scale manufacturing. Institutes were to leverage existing
regional or national innovation systems or catalyze the formation and sustainability of new regional or national innovation systems or catalyze the formation and sustainability of new
innovation clusters. Institutes were to offer an “industrial commons” (the R&D, engineering, and innovation clusters. Institutes were to offer an “industrial commons” (the R&D, engineering, and
manufacturing capabilities needed to turn inventions into competitive, manufacturable manufacturing capabilities needed to turn inventions into competitive, manufacturable
commercial products) to accelerate the formation and growth of small- and medium-sized commercial products) to accelerate the formation and growth of small- and medium-sized
enterprises, and were to integrate education and workforce training functions. enterprises, and were to integrate education and workforce training functions.
In large measure, these principles have guided the development of the NNMI/Manufacturing
In large measure, these principles have guided the development of the NNMI/Manufacturing
USA program. The USA program. The
Preliminary Design report, however, stated “the focus of each institute was to report, however, stated “the focus of each institute was to
be proposed by the applicants and selected through a competitive application process.”be proposed by the applicants and selected through a competitive application process.”
2739 Since Since
the Department of Defense and Department of Energy relied on their own authorities and general the Department of Defense and Department of Energy relied on their own authorities and general
appropriations to compete and award the institutes, the foci of the institutes were determined by appropriations to compete and award the institutes, the foci of the institutes were determined by
the departments’ missions and existing authorities, rather than being responsive to foci chosen by the departments’ missions and existing authorities, rather than being responsive to foci chosen by
the applicants. Placing agency missions and authorities first in the selection process may de-the applicants. Placing agency missions and authorities first in the selection process may de-
emphasize the commercial focus and market needs that the institutes were intended to serve. emphasize the commercial focus and market needs that the institutes were intended to serve.
S. 1260, the United States Innovation and Competition Act of 2021, authorizes $1.2 billion for FY2022-FY2026 for the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Director of NIST and in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, Secretary of Defense, and other agency heads deemed relevant by the Secretary of Commerce, for the operation of Manufacturing USA and to expand the program to support innovation and growth in domestic manufacturing. As Congress considers S. 1260 and other legislation intended to increase the number of Manufacturing USA institutes sponsored by NIST and other federal agencies, it may choose to consider whether to provide direction to the agencies regarding the process to be used to select the focus of future institutes.
26There are currently 16 Manufacturing USA institutes awarded by NIST, the Department of Defense, and Department of Commerce. In addition, Section 9906(f) of the 2021 NDAA, as amended, authorizes the establishment of up to three Manufacturing USA institutes to pursue research in support of the virtualization and automation of maintenance of semiconductor machinery; the development of new advanced test, assembly and packaging capabilities; and the development and deployment of educational and skills training curricula needed to support the industry sector and to ensure the United States can build and maintain a trusted and predictable talent pipeline. The CHIPS and Science Act authorizes funding of $500 million in FY2022 to support the establishment of these institutes, as well as NIST’s conduct of semiconductor
38 Only a single institute, NIST’s National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals, was Only a single institute, NIST’s National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals, was
established under the authorities provided by the RAMI Act. established under the authorities provided by the RAMI Act.
2739 AMNPO, NSTC, Executive Office of the AMNPO, NSTC, Executive Office of the
President, National Network for Manufacturing Innovation: A Preliminary
Design, January 2013, p. 3. , January 2013, p. 3.
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research. The act also appropriates additional funding for FY2023-FY2026 for these purposes as part of a broader appropriation.
As Congress considers whether to increase the number of Manufacturing USA institutes sponsored by NIST and other federal agencies, it may choose to consider whether to provide direction to the agencies regarding the process to be used to select the focus of future institutes.
For more information on Manufacturing USA, see CRS Report R46703, For more information on Manufacturing USA, see CRS Report R46703,
Manufacturing USA:
Advanced Manufacturing Institutes and Network, by John F. Sargent Jr. , by John F. Sargent Jr.
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2333 The National Institute of Standards and Technology: An Appropriations Overview
Appendix A. Requested and Enacted Discretionary
Appropriations for NIST Accounts
Table A-1. Requested and Enacted Appropriations for NIST Accounts
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2021FY2022; Requested Appropriations, FY2003-; Requested Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2022FY2023
(in millions of current dollars)
(in millions of current dollars)
Scientific and
Technical
Industrial
Research and
Technology
Construction of
Services
Services
Research Facilities
NIST, Total
(STRS)a
(ITS)a
(CRF)
Fiscal Year
Request
Request
Enacted
Enacted
Request
Request
Enacted
Enacted
Request
Request
Enacted
Enacted
Request
Request
Enacted
Enacted
2023
1,467.6
975.0
372.3
120.3
2022 2022
1,497.2
1,497.2
1,230.1
915.6
915.6
850.0
441.6
441.6
174.5
140.0
140.0
205.6
2021
2021
737.5
737.5
1,034.5
1,034.5
652.0
652.0
788.0
788.0
25.3
25.3
166.5
166.5
60.2
60.2
80.0
80.0
2020
2020
974.8
974.8
1,034.0
1,034.0
611.7
611.7
754.0
754.0
15.2
15.2
162.0
162.0
347.9
347.9
118.0
118.0
2019
2019
629.1
629.1
985.5
985.5
573.4
573.4
724.5
724.5
15.1
15.1
155.0
155.0
40.5
40.5
106.0
106.0
2018
2018
725.0
725.0
1,198.5
1,198.5
600.0
600.0
724.5
724.5
21.0
21.0
155.0
155.0
104.0
104.0
319.0
319.0
2017
2017
1,014.5
1,014.5
954.0
954.0
730.5
730.5
690.0
690.0
189.0
189.0
155.0
155.0
95.0
95.0
109.0
109.0
2016
2016
1,119.7
1,119.7
964.0
964.0
754.7
754.7
690.0
690.0
306.0
306.0
155.0
155.0
59.0
59.0
119.0
119.0
2015
2015
900.0
900.0
863.9
863.9
680.0
680.0
675.5
675.5
161.0
161.0
138.1
138.1
59.0
59.0
50.3
50.3
2014
2014
928.3
928.3
850.0
850.0
693.7
693.7
651.0
651.0
174.5
174.5
143.0
143.0
60.0
60.0
56.0
56.0
201
201
3b
857.0
857.0
769.4
769.4
648.0
648.0
579.8
579.8
149.0
149.0
133.6
133.6
60.0
60.0
56.0
56.0
2012
2012
1,001.1
1,001.1
750.8
750.8
678.9
678.9
567.0
567.0
237.6
237.6
128.4
128.4
84.6
84.6
55.4
55.4
201
201
1c
918.9
918.9
750.1
750.1
584.5
584.5
507.0
507.0
209.6
209.6
173.2
173.2
124.8
124.8
69.9
69.9
2010
2010
846.1
846.1
856.6
856.6
534.6
534.6
515.0
515.0
194.6
194.6
194.6
194.6
116.9
116.9
147.0
147.0
200
200
9d
636.0
636.0
819.0
819.0
535.0
535.0
472.0
472.0
4.0
4.0
175.0
175.0
99.0
99.0
172.0
172.0
2009 ARR
2009 ARR
Ae
—
—
580.0
580.0
—
—
220.0
220.0
—
—
—
—
—
—
360.0
360.0
200
200
8f
640.7
640.7
755.8
755.8
500.5
500.5
440.5
440.5
46.3
46.3
154.8
154.8
93.9
93.9
160.5
160.5
2007
2007
581.3
581.3
676.9
676.9
467.0
467.0
434.4
434.4
46.3
46.3
183.8
183.8
68.0
68.0
58.7
58.7
200
200
6g
532.0
532.0
752.0
752.0
426.3
426.3
394.8
394.8
46.8
46.8
183.6
183.6
58.9
58.9
173.7
173.7
200
200
5h
521.5
521.5
699.2
699.2
422.9
422.9
378.8
378.8
39.2
39.2
247.9
247.9
59.4
59.4
72.5
72.5
200
200
4i
496.8
496.8
608.5
608.5
387.6
387.6
336.5
336.5
39.6
39.6
207.8
207.8
69.6
69.6
64.3
64.3
200
200
3j
577.5
577.5
707.5
707.5
402.2
402.2
357.1
357.1
120.8
120.8
284.8
284.8
54.5
54.5
65.7
65.7
Sources: CRS analysis ofCRS analysis of
Department of Commerce and NIST budget documents, FY2003-Department of Commerce and NIST budget documents, FY2003-
FY2022FY2023. .
Notes: Dashes in cells in this table indicate no request or appropriation was made for that year. Accounts may Dashes in cells in this table indicate no request or appropriation was made for that year. Accounts may
not add to totals due to rounding. not add to totals due to rounding.
a. Funding for the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program was provided in the STRS account appropriation a. Funding for the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program was provided in the STRS account appropriation
through FY2011; in FY2012, funding was requested in the ITS account appropriation.
through FY2011; in FY2012, funding was requested in the ITS account appropriation.
b. Enacted levels reflect the 1.877% rescission, 0.2% rescission, and the 5% sequester applied to 2013
b. Enacted levels reflect the 1.877% rescission, 0.2% rescission, and the 5% sequester applied to 2013
annualized CR level.
annualized CR level.
c. Enacted levels include 0.2% across-the-board rescission.
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c. Enacted levels include 0.2% across-the-board rescission. d. Enacted levels for STRS appropriation include $3.475 mil ion in congressionally directed projects. The d. Enacted levels for STRS appropriation include $3.475 mil ion in congressionally directed projects. The
FY2009 amount for CRF appropriation includes $44 mil ion in congressionally directed projects and $30
FY2009 amount for CRF appropriation includes $44 mil ion in congressionally directed projects and $30
mil ion for a competitive construction grant program. mil ion for a competitive construction grant program.
e. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) amount for CRF includes $180 mil ion for a
e. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) amount for CRF includes $180 mil ion for a
competitive construction grant program for research science buildings. Not reflected above, ARRA also
competitive construction grant program for research science buildings. Not reflected above, ARRA also
included a $20 mil ion transfer from the Department of Health and Human Services for standards-related included a $20 mil ion transfer from the Department of Health and Human Services for standards-related
research on electronic medical records and an expected $10 mil ion from a Department of Energy research on electronic medical records and an expected $10 mil ion from a Department of Energy
interagency agreement to help develop a comprehensive framework for a nationwide smart electrical grid. interagency agreement to help develop a comprehensive framework for a nationwide smart electrical grid.
f.
f.
The enacted FY2008 level for STRS appropriations includes $893,000 in congressionally directed projects.
The enacted FY2008 level for STRS appropriations includes $893,000 in congressionally directed projects.
The enacted FY2008 level for CRF appropriations includes $51.3 mil ion in congressionally directed projects The enacted FY2008 level for CRF appropriations includes $51.3 mil ion in congressionally directed projects
and $30 mil ion for a new competitive construction grant program that was not requested by President and $30 mil ion for a new competitive construction grant program that was not requested by President
Bush. Bush.
g. Enacted levels reflect across-the-board rescissions enacted in P.L. 109-108, FY2006 Science, State, Justice,
g. Enacted levels reflect across-the-board rescissions enacted in P.L. 109-108, FY2006 Science, State, Justice,
and Commerce Appropriations Act and in P.L. 109-148, FY2006 Defense Appropriations Act ($9.7 mil ion).
and Commerce Appropriations Act and in P.L. 109-148, FY2006 Defense Appropriations Act ($9.7 mil ion).
Does not reflect MEP unobligated balances rescission of $7 mil ion. The amounts for STRS and for the Does not reflect MEP unobligated balances rescission of $7 mil ion. The amounts for STRS and for the
Construction of Research Facilities appropriation include $11.9 mil ion and $125.4 mil ion for Construction of Research Facilities appropriation include $11.9 mil ion and $125.4 mil ion for
congressionally directed projects, respectively. congressionally directed projects, respectively.
h. Enacted levels reflect across-the-board rescissions enacted in P.L. 108-447, FY2005 Consolidated
h. Enacted levels reflect across-the-board rescissions enacted in P.L. 108-447, FY2005 Consolidated
Appropriations Act ($9.5 mil ion). Does not reflect ATP unobligated balances rescission of $3.9 mil ion. The
Appropriations Act ($9.5 mil ion). Does not reflect ATP unobligated balances rescission of $3.9 mil ion. The
amounts for STRS and for the Construction of Research Facilities appropriation include $8.8 mil ion and amounts for STRS and for the Construction of Research Facilities appropriation include $8.8 mil ion and
$42.9 mil ion for congressionally directed projects, respectively. $42.9 mil ion for congressionally directed projects, respectively.
i.
i.
Enacted levels reflect across-the-board rescissions enacted in the FY2004 Consolidated Appropriations Act,
Enacted levels reflect across-the-board rescissions enacted in the FY2004 Consolidated Appropriations Act,
P.L. 108-199 ($6.6 mil ion) and NIST’s share of the Department of Commerce’s unobligated balances P.L. 108-199 ($6.6 mil ion) and NIST’s share of the Department of Commerce’s unobligated balances
rescission ($13.0 mil ion). rescission ($13.0 mil ion).
j.
j.
Enacted levels reflect an across-the-board rescission enacted in P.L. 108-7 ($4.6 mil ion).
Enacted levels reflect an across-the-board rescission enacted in P.L. 108-7 ($4.6 mil ion).
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2535 The National Institute of Standards and Technology: An Appropriations Overview
Appendix B. Requested and Enacted Appropriations
for Selected NIST Programs
Table B-1. Requested and Enacted Appropriations for Selected NIST Programs
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
Enacted Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2021FY2022; Requested Appropriations, FY2003-; Requested Appropriations, FY2003-
FY2022FY2023
(in millions of current dollars)
(in millions of current dollars)
Hollings
Advanced
Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Innovation
NNMI/ USA
Advanced
Technology
Extension
Technology
Institutes
Manufacturing(formerly the
Technology
Innovation
Fiscal
Partnership
Consortia
Coordination
USA NNMI)
Program
Program
Year
Request Enacted Request Enacted Request Enacted Request Enacted Request Enacted Request Enacted
Request Enacted Request Enacted Request Enacted Request Enacted Request Enacted Request Enacted
2022
2022
275.
275.
0
—
5.0
161.6a
—
—
3
—
—
97.0
—
—
2022
275.0
158.0
—
—
5.0
—
161.6a
16.5
—
—
—
—
2021
2021
0.0
0.0
150.0
150.0
—
—
—
5.3
5.3
5.
5.
0b
20.0
20.0
11.5
11.5
—
—
—
—
—
—
2020
2020
0.0
0.0
146.0
146.0
—
—
—
—
5.2
5.2
—c
10.2
10.2
16.
16.
0c
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2019
2019
0.0
0.0
140.0
140.0
—
—
—
—
5.1
5.1
5.
5.
0d
10.0
10.0
10.
10.
0d
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2018
2018
6.0
6.0
140.0
140.0
—
—
—
—
5.0
5.0
5.
5.
0a
10.0
10.0
10.
10.
0a
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2017
2017
142.0
142.0
130.0
130.0
—
—
—
—
—
—
5.
5.
0f
47.0
47.0
20.
20.
0f
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2016
2016
141.0
141.0
130.0
130.0
15.0
15.0
—
—
—
—
150.0
150.0
25.0
25.0
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2015
2015
141.0
141.0
130.0
130.0
15.0
15.0
8.1
8.1
5.0
5.0
g
h
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2014
2014
153.1
153.1
128.0
128.0
21.4
21.4
15.0
15.0
—
—
—
—
h
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
201
201
3i
128.0
128.0
123.0
123.0
21.0
21.0
10.6
10.6
—
—
—
—
h
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2012
2012
142.6
142.6
128.4
128.4
12.3
12.3
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
75.0
75.0
—
—
201
201
1j
129.7
129.7
128.4
128.4
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
79.9
79.9
44.8
44.8
2010
2010
124.7
124.7
124.7
124.7
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
69.9
69.9
69.9
69.9
2009
2009
2.0
2.0
110.0
110.0
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
65.0
65.0
2008
2008
46.3
46.3
89.6
89.6
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
65.2
65.2
2007
2007
46.3
46.3
104.7
104.7
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
79.1
79.1
—
—
—
—
200
200
6k
46.8
46.8
104.6
104.6
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
79.0
79.0
—
—
—
—
200
200
5l
39.2
39.2
107.5
107.5
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
140.4
140.4
—
—
—
—
200
200
4m
12.6
12.6
38.6
38.6
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
27.0
27.0
169.1
169.1
—
—
—
—
200
200
3n
12.9
12.9
105.9
105.9
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
107.9
107.9
178.8
178.8
—
—
—
—
Sources: CRS analysis ofCRS analysis of
Department of Commerce and NIST budget documents, FY2003-Department of Commerce and NIST budget documents, FY2003-
FY2018; P.L. 115-141 and accompanying explanatory statementFY2023. .
Notes: Empty cells in this table indicate no request or appropriation was made for that year. Empty cells in this table indicate no request or appropriation was made for that year.
a. Includes $1.7 mil ion for grants to develop industrial technology roadmaps. a. Includes $1.7 mil ion for grants to develop industrial technology roadmaps.
b. Includes $1.5 mil ion for a competitive grant program to develop technology roadmaps for advanced b. Includes $1.5 mil ion for a competitive grant program to develop technology roadmaps for advanced
manufacturing clusters.
manufacturing clusters.
c. P.L. 116-93 and the accompanying Explanatory Statement state that $16.0 mil ion is provided for the NNMI,
c. P.L. 116-93 and the accompanying Explanatory Statement state that $16.0 mil ion is provided for the NNMI,
but neither explicitly references funding for coordination activities of the network.
but neither explicitly references funding for coordination activities of the network.
d. H.Rept. 116-9 states that $15.0 mil ion is appropriated for the NNMI, of which $5.0 mil ion may be used for
d. H.Rept. 116-9 states that $15.0 mil ion is appropriated for the NNMI, of which $5.0 mil ion may be used for
coordination activities of the network.
coordination activities of the network.
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e. House Print 29-456 states that $15.0 mil ion is appropriated for the NNMI, of which $5.0 mil ion may be
e. House Print 29-456 states that $15.0 mil ion is appropriated for the NNMI, of which $5.0 mil ion may be
used for coordination activities of the network.
used for coordination activities of the network.
f.
f.
House Print 25-289 states that $25.0 mil ion is appropriated for the NNMI, of which $5.0 mil ion may be
House Print 25-289 states that $25.0 mil ion is appropriated for the NNMI, of which $5.0 mil ion may be
used for coordination activities of the network. used for coordination activities of the network.
g. P.L. 113-235 states, “To the extent provided for in advance by appropriations Acts, the Secretary may use
g. P.L. 113-235 states, “To the extent provided for in advance by appropriations Acts, the Secretary may use
not to exceed $5,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2015 through 2024 to carry out this section from
not to exceed $5,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2015 through 2024 to carry out this section from
amounts appropriated to the Institute for Industrial Technical Services.” amounts appropriated to the Institute for Industrial Technical Services.”
h. President Obama requested $1 bil ion in mandatory funding for the NNMI for FY2013; $1 bil ion in
h. President Obama requested $1 bil ion in mandatory funding for the NNMI for FY2013; $1 bil ion in
mandatory funding for FY2014; and $2.4 bil ion in mandatory funding for FY2015.
mandatory funding for FY2014; and $2.4 bil ion in mandatory funding for FY2015.
i.
i.
Enacted levels reflect the 1.877% rescission, 0.2% rescission, and the 5% sequester applied to 2013
Enacted levels reflect the 1.877% rescission, 0.2% rescission, and the 5% sequester applied to 2013
annualized CR level. annualized CR level.
j.
j.
Enacted levels include 0.2% across-the-board rescission.
Enacted levels include 0.2% across-the-board rescission.
k. Enacted levels reflect across-the-board rescissions enacted in P.L. 109-108, FY2006 Science, State, Justice,
k. Enacted levels reflect across-the-board rescissions enacted in P.L. 109-108, FY2006 Science, State, Justice,
and Commerce Appropriations Act and in P.L. 109-148, FY2006 Defense Appropriations Act.
and Commerce Appropriations Act and in P.L. 109-148, FY2006 Defense Appropriations Act.
l.
l.
Enacted levels reflect across-the-board rescissions enacted in P.L. 108-447, FY2005 Consolidated
Enacted levels reflect across-the-board rescissions enacted in P.L. 108-447, FY2005 Consolidated
Appropriations Act ($9.5 mil ion). Does not reflect ATP unobligated balances rescission of $3.9 mil ion. Appropriations Act ($9.5 mil ion). Does not reflect ATP unobligated balances rescission of $3.9 mil ion.
m. Enacted levels reflect across-the-board rescissions enacted in the FY2004 Consolidated Appropriations Act,
m. Enacted levels reflect across-the-board rescissions enacted in the FY2004 Consolidated Appropriations Act,
P.L. 108-199, and NIST’s share of the Department of Commerce’s unobligated balances rescission.
P.L. 108-199, and NIST’s share of the Department of Commerce’s unobligated balances rescission.
n. Enacted levels reflect an across-the-board rescission enacted in P.L. 108-7.
n. Enacted levels reflect an across-the-board rescission enacted in P.L. 108-7.
Author Information
John F. Sargent Jr. John F. Sargent Jr.
Specialist in Science and Technology Policy
Specialist in Science and Technology Policy
Disclaimer
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