Robust Science Budgets in Times of Federal Budget Deficits?

    In the May 21 Issue of Chemical and Engineering News, Andrea Widener and Susan Morrissey report on "Robust Science Budgets".
    The House passed HR 5326 for $51.1 billion, which includes a 10.5% increase over last year for the National Institute of Science and Technology and a 4.3% increase for the National Science Foundation. NASA gets a slight cut.
    Glenn Ruskin, Director of the American Chemical Society's Office of Public Affairs says, "The House passed bill demonstrates bipartisan support for science and recognition that is critically important for US innovation and global competitiveness". Baloney! We have real federal budget problems and the new House of Representatives, with supposed high Republican representation, should recognize this. Apparently, it does not.
    Harold Rogers, Republican from Kentucky and Chair of the House Appropriations Committee said the total $1.6 billion cut is necessary. Correct but not enough. He also said, "This legislation funds important programs at adequate responsible levels while cutting spending." However, keep in mind that a $1.6 billion cut, which still leaves 51.1 billion, is not a significant recognition of the budgetary problems of the federal government. The NIST and the NSF still get $830 million and $7.3 billion, respectively, of taxpayer money or borrowings to fritter away.
    The only thing I like about this report is the amendment, which would halt all National Science Foundation funding for political science research.