This bill, titled the "Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness Act," directs the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to establish the Foundation for Standards and Metrology . This new nonprofit corporation is designed to support NIST's mission by advancing measurement science, technical standards, and technology, thereby enhancing the economic security and prosperity of the United States. Its core purpose is to foster collaboration among researchers, higher education institutions, industry, and nonprofit organizations. The Foundation's activities include supporting international metrology engagement, conducting research on metrology and technical standards infrastructure, and expanding NIST's research facilities. It will also facilitate the commercialization of federally funded research, conduct education and outreach, and provide direct support to NIST associates through fellowships, grants, and other assistance. The Foundation is designated as the sole entity responsible for carrying out these specified activities. Governance of the Foundation will be overseen by a Board of Directors , comprising eleven appointed voting members from diverse sectors like academia, industry, and philanthropy, along with the NIST Director as an ex officio nonvoting member. The Board is responsible for setting the Foundation's overall direction, establishing bylaws, coordinating with NIST, and actively soliciting funds. The Foundation is authorized to receive and administer funds, gifts, and bequests, and must take steps to ensure its tax-exempt status. To ensure accountability, the Foundation must develop a strategic plan within one year, outlining its path to financial self-sustainability, short- and long-term objectives, and transparency efforts. Annual reports detailing operations, financial condition, and donor information are required, along with annual financial audits. Furthermore, the Comptroller General of the United States will conduct an evaluation of the Foundation's mission achievement and operations within five years of its establishment. The bill emphasizes integrity, requiring the Board to develop and enforce procedures for standards of conduct and conflict of interest, including prohibitions on participation in deliberations that would affect personal financial interests. Importantly, the Foundation is explicitly stated not to be an agency of the Federal Government, and the United States government will not be liable for its debts or omissions. The Foundation may transfer funds and property to NIST, subject to federal limitations.
Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness Act
USA119th CongressHR-2582| House
| Updated: 4/1/2025
This bill, titled the "Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness Act," directs the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to establish the Foundation for Standards and Metrology . This new nonprofit corporation is designed to support NIST's mission by advancing measurement science, technical standards, and technology, thereby enhancing the economic security and prosperity of the United States. Its core purpose is to foster collaboration among researchers, higher education institutions, industry, and nonprofit organizations. The Foundation's activities include supporting international metrology engagement, conducting research on metrology and technical standards infrastructure, and expanding NIST's research facilities. It will also facilitate the commercialization of federally funded research, conduct education and outreach, and provide direct support to NIST associates through fellowships, grants, and other assistance. The Foundation is designated as the sole entity responsible for carrying out these specified activities. Governance of the Foundation will be overseen by a Board of Directors , comprising eleven appointed voting members from diverse sectors like academia, industry, and philanthropy, along with the NIST Director as an ex officio nonvoting member. The Board is responsible for setting the Foundation's overall direction, establishing bylaws, coordinating with NIST, and actively soliciting funds. The Foundation is authorized to receive and administer funds, gifts, and bequests, and must take steps to ensure its tax-exempt status. To ensure accountability, the Foundation must develop a strategic plan within one year, outlining its path to financial self-sustainability, short- and long-term objectives, and transparency efforts. Annual reports detailing operations, financial condition, and donor information are required, along with annual financial audits. Furthermore, the Comptroller General of the United States will conduct an evaluation of the Foundation's mission achievement and operations within five years of its establishment. The bill emphasizes integrity, requiring the Board to develop and enforce procedures for standards of conduct and conflict of interest, including prohibitions on participation in deliberations that would affect personal financial interests. Importantly, the Foundation is explicitly stated not to be an agency of the Federal Government, and the United States government will not be liable for its debts or omissions. The Foundation may transfer funds and property to NIST, subject to federal limitations.