TheWeekInCongress_HCR301

TheWeekInCongress.com

Week Ending July. 9, 2004

House Concurrent Resolution 301 supporting the goals and ideals of the World Year of Physics.

BRIEF

It is nearly 100 years since Albert Einstein began in 1905 to produce his conclusions on the photoelectric effect, the size of molecules, Brownian motion, and the theory of relativity that led to the equation, E = mc2. Congress sees it as an opportunity, in 2005, to focus attention on the impact of physics on society. The bill’s sponsor, a physicist himself, explained that beyond nuclear weapons, physics and Dr. Einstein’s effort have also led to X-rays, CAT scans MRI’s and lasers, to name a few.

The Congressional research Service summarized the bill as expressing ‘support for the goals and ideals of the World Year of Physics, as designated by the General Assembly of the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics.’

The bill encourages the American people to observe the Year as a ‘special occasion for giving impetus to education and research in physics as well as to the public's understanding of physics’.

Recognition should come from ‘all science-related government agencies and nongovernmental organizations, the private sector, and the media to highlight and give enhanced recognition to the role of physics in social, cultural, and economic development as well as its positive impact and contributions to society.’

‘All those involved in physics education and research to take additional steps, including strengthening existing and emerging fields of physics research and promoting the public's understanding of physics, to ensure that support for physics continues and that physics studies at all levels continue to attract an adequate number of students.’

The US World Year of Physics would coincide with the recently declared UN International Year of Physics.

Sponsor: Rep. Vernon J. Ehlers (R-MI-3^rd)

Vote: Passed House by voice vote.

Cost to the taxpayers: No discernible cost.