This paper addresses some of the issues which may be critical to improving the long-term competitiveness of selected industries in light of concerns raised in the trade debate. The focus is on the enhancement of technological development. The industries which are discussed briefly include steel, advanced materials, semiconductors, and fiber optics.,CRS 87-345 SPR,"March 11, 1987.",SuDoc# 14. 18/3

This report examines the impact of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985, on the FY86 budget of selected research and development (R&D) programs. The analysis of the report focuses on the likely scope of reprogramming, and its potential impact on each program or agency in general. The qualitative program analysis also tried to determine what research areas were likely to suffer most under Gramm-Rudman-Hollings and if the different R&D agencies planned to cut the number of research grans or the size of each grant and how either action might affect their programs.,Abstract -- Introduction -- Department of Commerce. National Bureau of Standards ; National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration ; Office of Productivity, Technology and Innovation -- Department of Energy. Energy Supply Research and Development Activities ; Nuclear Fission ; Nuclear Waste Disposal Fund ; Basic Energy Sciences ; Energy Conservation Programs ; Electric Energy Systems and Energy Storage ; DOE Solar and Renewables ; Magnetic Fusion Energy ; Uranium Enrichment Activities ; General Science and Research Activities ; Fossil Energy Research and Development ; Expected Impact of Gramm-Rudman-Hollings -- Department of Interior. Bureau of Mines ; Minerals and Materials Research, Information, and Analysis -- Department of Transportation. Research Development ; FAA Research, Engineering and Development-Trust Fund -- Environmental Protection Agency. Research and Development Programs -- Federal Emergency Management Agency. United States Fire Administration ; National Fire Academy ; National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program -- National Aeronautics and Space Administration -- National Science Foundation.,CRS 86-538 SPR,"January 31, 1986.",SuDoc# 14. 18/3

In an attempt to foster regional economic growth, many State and local governments have developed and are supporting programs to enhance technological advancement within their jurisdictions. These programs are based upon the idea that economic benefits accrue from the creation of new firms and from increases in productivity in existing companies through the application of technological products and processes. These efforts very by State and often a jurisdiction supports several different approaches. Several Federal programs and policies have facilitated State and local technological development activities. These include programs to strengthen the science and technology capabilities of State governments, to encourage industry-university cooperation, to expand the use of Federal technical resources, and to strengthen the research capacity of universities. There is congressional interest in exploring ways to augment Federal support for State and local technological advancement efforts. Various options are identified to assist Members in determining if future congressional action is necessary, and if so, what types of activities might build upon an infrastructure already in place.