119-hres147

[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 147 Introduced in House

    (IH) ]

<DOC>

119th CONGRESS
 1st Session
H. RES. 147

Expressing support for designation of the third Friday of every March, 
 as ``National FIRST Robotics Day''.

_______________________________________________________________________

 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

 February 21, 2025

 Mr. Foster (for himself, Mr. Cohen, and Mr. Casten) submitted the 
 following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Science, 
 Space, and Technology, and in addition to the Committee on Education 
 and Workforce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the 
 Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall 
 within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned

_______________________________________________________________________

 RESOLUTION

Expressing support for designation of the third Friday of every March, 
 as ``National FIRST Robotics Day''.

Whereas FIRST is For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology;
Whereas robotics is rapidly proving to be one of the most effective, compelling, 
 and engaging means for teaching and reinforcing fundamental science, 
 technology, engineering, and mathematics

    (STEM) concepts as well as 
 inspiring the Nation's youth to pursue STEM-related careers, thereby 
 helping to create a highly skilled, 21st-century American workforce;
Whereas there is a strong need to recognize America's leadership in robotics 
 technology, educate the public on robotics technology's broad potential, 
 growing importance, and future impact on American society, underscore 
 the need for increased investment in robotics technology research and 
 development, and inspire the Nation's youth to pursue careers in 
 robotics and other STEM-related fields;
Whereas the United States has the largest number of academic and research 
 organizations with dedicated programs focused on the advancement of 
 robotics technology;
Whereas aptitude in mathematics, science, and engineering is essential for a 
 knowledge-based society;
Whereas the Federal Government must continue to make deep, hands-on STEM 
 experiences a true priority in school districts around the country by 
 unlocking increased funding for programming that--

    (1) builds strong foundations for STEM literacy;

    (2) increases diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM; and

    (3) prepares the STEM workforce for the future;

Whereas not all STEM jobs of the 21st century require a traditional 4-year 
 degree, so greater pathways toward STEM education must be encouraged;
Whereas robotics has matured into an all-encompassing and enabling technology 
 that, as a pillar of 21st-century American innovation, is positioned to 
 fuel a broad array of next generation products and applications, and 
 transform American society; and
Whereas robotics is a critical technology capable in the near term of 
 contributing to the economic recovery by creating new jobs, increasing 
 productivity, improving quality, and increasing worker safety: Now, 
 therefore, be it
 Resolved, That the House of Representatives--

    (1) supports the designation of a ``National FIRST Robotics 
 Day'' and its celebration around the United States;

    (2) recognizes the continuing importance of the National 
 Science Foundation's math and science education programs;

    (3) encourages States and local educational agencies to 
 fund afterschool robotics programs using funds made available 
 by title IV, part A of the Every Student Succeeds Act; and

    (4) encourages schools and educators to observe the day 
 with appropriate activities that teach students about robotics 
 and engage them about the study of mathematics and science.
 <all>