U.S. Chamber Letter on S. 4286 and H.R. 7308, “Research Investment to Spark the Economy (RISE) Act”

Dear Chairman Wicker, Chairwoman Johnson, and Ranking Members Cantwell and Lucas:

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce supports S. 4286 and H.R. 7308, the “Research Investment to Spark the Economy (RISE) Act.” The bipartisan RISE Act would authorize $26 billion in emergency relief appropriations for federal science agencies for up to two years to help the United States maintain its traditional leadership role and its competitive advantage in innovation. At a time when many universities are being forced to pause and even end research in areas like cancer research due to financial constraints, this legislation would provide critical support.

The research sector supports at least 560,000 jobs, and critical discoveries and innovations in health, energy, communications, and other fields will be necessary to defeat the COVID-19 pandemic and spur economic recovery for all.

The Chamber looks forward to working with you on this important legislation.

Sincerely,

Neil L. Bradley

cc: Members of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation
Members of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology