I have long been hearing from our scientists in New Mexico that a shortage of talent would be an increasing problem. This was confirmed in October 2005, when the National Academies of Science issued a report called "Rising Above the Gathering Storm: Energizing and Employing America for a Brighter Economic Future." The report identified twenty actions, in priority order, that federal policy makers could make to enhance the science and technology enterprise of the United States. The panel grouped the recommendations in four broad categories: K-12 education, higher education, research, and incentives for innovation. By acting on these recommendations, we will ensure the future competitiveness, prosperity, and security of the United States.

The education programs we will create through the National Competitiveness Investment Act include a scholarship program for future math and science teachers; funding for high schools that specialize in math and science; summer institutes at the National Laboratories that will strengthen the math and science teaching skills of K-12 teachers; and an elite graduate fellowship program for the best and brightest American students earning doctorates in science, math, and engineering.

The National Academy Report stressed that support for basic research is crucial to the strength of our nation in the long-term. The basic research we invest in today will lead us to the technology breakthroughs of tomorrow. These new technologies will lead to new products, new industries, and new jobs. The National Competitiveness Initiative Act will set us on a path to double funding for basic research in the physical sciences over the next several years.

I'm pleased to tell you that as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I've been part of a team that has already secured significant funds for these endeavors. The FY2007 Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Bill that was passed in the Senate contains $1.2 billion for competitiveness activities-including programs associated with the University of New Mexico, New Mexico State University, New Mexico Tech and others.

Among the programs involving our New Mexico schools that receive funding are: the National Science Foundation science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) program; the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research program; and, NASA's Space Grant College and Fellowship Program.

In addition, I authored a provision in the FY2007 Energy and Water Appropriations Bill to spend $25 million on math and science teacher training in conjunction with DOE national labs, including Los Alamos and Sandia. Both of these bills are awaiting final action, and I'm hopeful we can get them done before the end of the year.